Brian Donald Illingworth

Brian Donald Illingworth

April 8, 1947 – November 18, 2025

Brian Donald Illingworth, 78, passed away in Bandon OR on November 18, 2025. He was born in Elmhurst IL on April 8, 1947 to John Edwin Illingworth and Jean O’Donnell Illingworth. He grew up in Waukesha WI and graduated from the University of Wisconsin in Stevens Point. He married Joanne Burie with whom he raised 3 children in Nekoosa WI. He subsequently met and married Barbara Taves with whom he spent the remaining 25 years of his life. Together, they lived in many states – Florida, Missouri, Wyoming, Colorado, Texas, Nevada, California, and Oregon.

Brian worked in a florist’s greenhouse in high school. After college, he was employed by a Stevens Point newspaper. However, the majority of Brian’s working life was spent in law enforcement as a detective in Adams County WI followed by 10 years as the Wood County Sheriff.  He was an avid reader, enjoyed gardening, was skilled at house renovation, and was active in church life. He and Barbara enjoyed traveling, dancing, and karaoke.

Brian is survived by his loving wife Barbara Taves, his sister Melinda Illingworth, son Christopher (Jeannette) Illingworth, daughter Shannan Illingworth, daughter Sarah (TJ) Villarreal, step-son Barrett (Kacy) Beck, and step-daughter Laura (Aaron Gorman) Wade. He also leaves behind grandchildren Ayden, Meghan, Madison, Fiona, Griffin, and Quinn; step-grandchildren Zachariah, Zander, Zyla, Ember, and Hazel; and step-greatgrandson Otto. He was a father figure to Nicholas Gohson and Robin Friedrich. He will be sadly missed by many other relatives and friends.

Brian was preceded in death by his parents, brother John M. Illingworth, sister Roberta Ann Watkins, and sister Victoria Illingworth Maloney.

A private seaside memorial was held on November 22, 2025. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Brian’s life may make a memorial donation to a charity of their choice in his name.

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