Brian Field Foster of Helena Montana passed away peacefully on May 21, 2021, surrounded by family love and admiration. Brian was 30 years old, but had experiences, love and wisdom beyond his years.
Brian was born on January 17, 1991 to James Foster and Patti (Field) Grosfield in Helena Montana and joined the family home with his beloved siblings Jack, Bob and Patrice. His early years were in both Townsend and Helena MT. He then moved to Helena during Middle School and beyond.
There could never have been a more loving, fun and caring son, brother, friend, boyfriend or person than Brian. Generous and kind, he always put others above himself. He cared for and worried more about his loved ones than himself, even during his final years of a gallant battle with cancer. He was compassionate and treated people of all walks of life with respect and love.
“Big B” was strong in all he did. Whether it was hitting a baseball a country mile, sacking Brock Osweiler in high school, setting up for big catering events, hauling heavy mainline pipe across his broad shoulders, helping Mom and others with projects that required superhuman strength, or being the “Chemo Gronk” (as he was fondly nicknamed by nurses), Brian put all his strength and energies into his work and play.
But it was Brian’s extreme inner strength and goodness that shone through and made him so exceptional. He loved everyone and everyone loved him. Brian made enumerable friends and touched people’s hearts everywhere he went. Brian’s initials were BFF and he certainly proved to be a true BFF to many! He had an innate knack of cheering up family and people who were down, and he had mastered being confident without being cocky or rude. And since he was the consummate gentleman, Brian’s friends, neighbors, co-workers, and even doctors and nurses across the country all came to love and respect him. With his easy-going nature and kindness, he was always polite and friendly even in the midst of adversity.
From an early age, Brian was a protector of those disadvantaged. People admired his gentleness and compassion and he was the champion of those who needed someone to be there for them. With his genuine love and heightened compassion for children, he did everything in his power to protect them.
Brian attended grade school in Townsend, played sports and exhibited early on an excellent work ethic when he helped his siblings with a Tropical Sno business. He was very active at Helena Middle School and Helena High School. In early high school, Brian began working at the Green Meadow Country Club kitchen and worked his way up with his indomitable spirit and willingness, and it was here that his passion for cooking was born. Brian graduated from Helena High in 2010. He was intelligent, a good student and a naturally talented athlete. He played football, basketball, track, baseball, and also enjoyed golf and snowboarding. Upon graduation, Brian attended Helena Vo-Tech and then on to Montana State University where he studied architecture. During college (and later during time-off), Brian perfected his culinary skills and happily worked his way up to be kitchen manager at Ferraro’s Fine Italian in Bozeman. Mechanically gifted, he also worked at Foster Irrigation with his dad and brother Bob and became a skilled welder. Next, Brian went back to college to study to become a teacher. Although he was ultimately not able to complete that noble quest, he was nonetheless a great teacher. He schooled us admirably in life, love and courage.
Cooking was his passion and he relished preparing and presenting a fine dish. Whenever Mom had a cooking question, she would ask Brian. We anticipate that when we meet Brian again, he will greet us with a fine Italian meal to enjoy!
Brian also enjoyed gazing at and contemplating the stars and heavens, camping, scuba diving and water sports, a walk in the rain or snow, spending time with his girlfriend, painting (a gift he discovered late in life), music, attending professional sports like a Patriots game, playing with his dear kitty companion Zelda, hanging out at the lake with Grandad or friends, playing a good Xbox game – sometimes with his online buddies, watching a good movie, or just hanging out.
Laughter abounded when Brian was involved! Possessing a tremendous sense of humor, Brian could make you laugh until you cried, or as a friend put it, until your stomach hurt. Whether he was leading a Conga line at Jack’s wedding or duct-taping himself and friends up to become human snow sleds, he was often the life of the party.
Brian loved travelling with family, venturing to places like Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro and points in between, Puerto Rico, Mexico, New York City, Florida, Flathead Lake, New Mexico, Utah, New England and Blackfoot River. He spent a memorable Summer/Fall with brother Bob in a Montana cabin and treasured several months with sister Patrice in Wisconsin.
Brian’s faith guided him and comforted him throughout his journey. He appreciated his church families in Helena and Townsend, and recently, he especially enjoyed a bible study led by his brother Jack. Brian was truly budded on earth to bloom in heaven.
Brian was preceded in death by his grandparents Buzz and Pat Field, and Jack and Barbara Foster.
Brian is survived by his mother Patti Grosfield and step-father Norm Grosfield, father James Foster and step-mother Sharon Foster, siblings Jack Foster (Damaris, with children Ivan and Jetxiel), Robert “Bob” Foster, Patrice Foster Grzebielski (Kevin), step-siblings Stephanie and Justin Grosfield, Mike and Nick Olsen, Rochael Vogt, Teddi Murgel, numerous uncles, aunts, cousins, plethora of friends, and his ever-faithful cat Zelda.
Special thanks go to the caring medical professionals across the country that helped and treated Brian, especially Dr. Dela Cruz and team at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in NYC, and Dr. Tom Weiner and the St. Peter’s Cancer Treatment Center in Helena.
A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held on June 12, 2021 from 5:00 – 7:00 pm at the Anderson Stevenson Wilke funeral home in Helena, and light food will be served. A funeral service will be held on June 13, 2021 at 2:00 pm at the Townsend United Methodist Church with luncheon to follow.
Brian had a huge heart and desire to be part of the cure, so Memorials are welcome and may be sent to “St. Jude’s Children Hospital” or the “Osteosarcoma Institute”. A scholarship for aspiring Chefs will be set up at a later date.
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Saturday June 12, 2021
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N MONTANA AVE
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Saturday June 12, 2021
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N MONTANA AVE
Helena, MT 59602
Funeral Service
2:00 PM
Sunday June 13, 2021
Townsend United Methodist Church
200 N Cedar St
Townsend, MT 59644
Luncheon
Directly following the funeral service
Sunday June 13, 2021
Townsend United Methodist Church
200 N Cedar St
Townsend, MT 59644
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Saturday June 12, 2021
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N MONTANA AVE
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Saturday June 12, 2021
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N MONTANA AVE
Helena, MT 59602
Funeral Service
2:00 PM
Sunday June 13, 2021
Townsend United Methodist Church
200 N Cedar St
Townsend, MT 59644
Luncheon
Directly following the funeral service
Sunday June 13, 2021
Townsend United Methodist Church
200 N Cedar St
Townsend, MT 59644
Share
Dick and Sharlene Lucas says
Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers, love you guys
Louann Rogers & Lowen Nunn says
Brian you will be missed by many. RIP. Prayers for the Foster family
Michelle McCubbins says
Patti and family,
So sorry to hear about Brian. When I saw him in DI I didn’t know he would be gone so soon. Prayers to you and you family.
Micki (Williams) McCubbins
Jaclyn Haven says
2 Timothy 4:7: I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
If anyone has fought the good fight, it is Brian. Rest In Peace, dear cousin. You will be missed.
Mary Kay Bennett says
A mother’s sweet boy..I am so sorry!
Mark Barry says
Patti, Norm and Family,
My deepest sympathies in your loss. It was a courageous fight. I send prayers for your peace.
Kris Schmaus says
Jim, Patti & family,
My heart is breaking for all of you. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Sending you all my love.
Jean and Gary says
Dear Patti,
We are so very sorry for your loss. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. We thank God that you have your other children to help you through this extraordinarily sorrowful time. We love you.
Tonda Meyer says
Patty, Jim & Family,
My heart breaks for the loss you are feeling and the slow grieving that you have done the past few years in watching Brian slip away. May God comfort you in knowing that Brian is with Him and out of pain. God bless you all! Matt & Tonda Meyer
Mitchell Stocks says
Patti,
Our heartfelt condolences. Praying for you and your family.
Sincerely,
Hsien-Wen and Mitch
Debra L Polhemus says
Patti and Brian’s Family & friends:
May fond memories bring you comfort and the love of your friends and family bring peace.
In sympathy, Debra & Steve Polhemus
Wanda Moldenhauer says
Patti and Family,
So sorry, my heart hurts for you and your family. Thinking and praying for you all.
Todd & Wanda Moldenhauer
Rosanne says
Patti and Family,
Patti, thank you for sharing part of this journey with me.
My heart is broken.
Prayers, love, and support to all of you.
What a remarkable young man.
May you find the “Peace that passeth’ understanding”.
Rosanne
Dwight & Jane Bernard says
Patti, Norm and Family;
We are so very, very sorry to hear about Brian. Know that he is now with the Lord and his pain is gone. Brian will look down upon you always. His strength is your strength. Our prayers are with you my friends.
Nicholas C Hopkins says
Dear Patti and Family,
I wish you peace and consolation during this difficult time. I hope that your heart can celebrate his life as you grieve his absence. It is clear that Brian’s life was one of strength and passion. For as long as I have known you, Patti, those words also describe you. I have no doubt that your love for him was an important source for that strength and in strength, he shall live in the memories of all he loved. Blessings for you and your family.
Mary & Fred Froelicher says
To all Brian’s family, At this tender & difficult time in your lives, may you find comfort in the many special memories of Brian. It sounds like he touched the hearts of most everyone he met. We will hold you in our thoughts as you treasure his life in your hearts.
Sincerely, Mary & Fred Froelicher [now living in Minnetonka, Minnesota]
Laurie Nugent says
Brian is so fondly remembered as a beloved first grader of mine. He had all those lovely attributes as early as age 6-7! I believe he was blest to be a blessing to all who knew and loved him❤️. Condolences to you all.
Laurie and Terry Nugent
Val says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time. May your memories fill this time with the greatness Brian was and the happiness he brought each and everyone of you.
Val and Roy Hornsveld
Phyllis McDonald says
Patti, I’m so sorry to hear of your son’s passing. My heart breaks for you and your family.
Phyllis McDonald
Kevin Bartsch says
Patti, Norm and family. I’m very sorry to hear of your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Chaiben Fas Alzamora says
My prayers for Bryan soul and my thoughts with the fsmily in particular Jack a d Damaris
Jane Goode says
My deepest condolences Jim and Sharon, Patty and your dear family. Your loss is unimaginable and my heart aches for you. I’m so thankful for our heavenly Father that has given him a place of rest and love where Brian is with our loved ones that have gone on before and he is pain free. May God continue to provide comfort and peace during this most difficult time. My love always.
Pat Hunt & Chuck Johnson says
Dear Patti, Norm and Family,
We are so sorry to hear about Brian’s death. Thank you for sharing his beautiful story with us in this obituary. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Kerry Hughes says
Patti,
I’m sorry to hear about the loss of your son. I remembered you telling me what a wonderful young man he was while I did your hair. May Jesus bring you comfort, strength and show you an abundance of mercy as you journey forward in days ahead. My heart is so sad for you. Please know I will be praying that you will cherish incredible memories and hold them dear to your heart! Please be kind to yourself and know the deep pain you feel is from all the love in your heart.
God Bless,
Kerr Hughes
Sandra Vanover says
I am so sorry. Brian was an exceptional young man, always smiling and never complaining. To know Brian was to love him.
He loved the Lord and he was welcomed to Heaven. And, we know grandma Barbara was waiting with arms out.
I shall keep all that love Brian in my prayers. I know the hurt in losing a child.
Joan Hunsaker says
Dear Jim, Patti, and family
I am so sorry to hear this tragic news! I hope and pray you will find comfort and peace in the memories that you have of Brian!
May Heavenly Father bless you and be with you during this most painful time. Sending my love to you all.
Linda Patrick says
Jim, Patti, and families
I am so saddened to hear this news and that you have to go thru all of this. He is resting now in the arms of Jesus and will be with you always. Sending hugs and prayers your way.
Donna Francisco says
Jim, Patti and your families ~ I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your son! You are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless you all. Donna
Lisa Larson says
Patti, Norm, Jim, Sharon, and Families,
May the Dear Lord wrap his arms around you and bring you peace during this most difficult time. May you find that comfort in the wonderful memories you all share. Prayers for you all.
Frank & Shila Peters says
Jim Sharon Patty Norm we are sorry for the loss of your son. It sounds like Brian was a very good man. We are thinking of you all at this time. What a nicely written tribute to him….. ♡ Frank & Shila Peters
Gary Wogamon says
Jim and Patti and your families,
I am so very sorry for your loss. Sending prayers to all of you. May God bless you and watch over you.
Rose Hardman says
Patti and family
My prayers and thoughts for you all. Brian will always be in your heart.
Lisa Schlosser says
Patti, Norm and family,
I am so sorry for your loss! What an amazing you g man, he was definitely an Angel on Earth and now flying free from pain in Heaven! I can’t even begin to imagine your pain, and am sending you love, hugs and prayers for strength and healing! I love you, my sweet friend!
Xoxo, Lisa
Wayne/Rebecca Mitchell says
Jim. and Family, So sorry to hear about the loss of your son. Our prayers are with you during this difficult time. Becky & Wayne
Trish Toney says
It is with deep sadness to hear of the loss of Brian!
Thoughts & prayers for all the family in the days to come! The wonderful memories together will always be forever! Hugs & prayers to you all!
Kelly & Jeff Garrard says
Patti, my heart goes out to you. Brian was an exceptional young man even at an early age. Our family has so many good memories of him & also his friendship to Trey. He will be deeply missed, we are so sorry to hear of your loss.
Harold and Betty Blattie says
Patti – So sorry to hear this. There is no pain like losing a child. A wonderful tribute to a wonderful young man who got a lot of living done in such a short time.
Jennifer Lloyd says
Dear Patti & Family,
I am so sorry to hear that your son lost his battle. What a wonderful young man. My prayers & thoughts are with you all at this difficult time. Peace be with you.
I am sending you love and big hugs!
Teresa Graham says
Jim and Patti, I am so very sorry for the loss of you son. My thoughts and prayers are with you. May your loving memories of better times sustain you through.
Vickie Rauser says
Jim, Patti, family, and friends,
Condolences to you on the loss of Son, Brother, Uncle, Nephew, Cousin, and Exceptional Friend. Holding you all in prayers for comfort and peace.
Sandi Booher says
Jim, Sharon, Patti, Norm and all who were close to Brian,
I just wanted to send my condolences for the loss of your son, brother, nephew, uncle, & friend to so many. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sandi Booher
Carol & Steve Athearn says
Patti and family:
Steve and I are so sorry to hear that you lost your dear son, Brian. You and he fought a long hard battle. Brian was a strong young man and you did all you could to help and protect him through his battle with cancer. Our love and prayers to you and your family. The loss of a child is one of the worst losses a parent can ever live through. You have many happy memories.
Carol and Steve Athearn
Barbara Sauter says
Patti and family:
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your precious son Brian. May all the memories help sustain you and loved ones in this time of grief . He is in the arms of Jesus now and free from pain. My prayers are with you and family.
Amanda Domino says
To the whole Foster Family,
Though it has been so many years, I do remember Brian when he went to school in Townsend. This is very sad news, and I hope that the loving memories that you shared about Brian can help in your healing as you remember your beloved son, brother, uncle, friend, and all around good person.
Jim and Amanda Domino