Chatfield, MN – Brian Ralph Shank, 59, left us suddenly on Friday, September 27, 2024, doing what he loved; riding his harley. Brian was born on October 21, 1964 in Rochester, MN to Ralph and Marie (Hobb) Shank. He graduated from St. Charles High School, St. Charles, MN in 1983. After graduation Brian worked as a mechanic for several trucking companies. In 2001, he began his career in the sprinkler industry and planned to begin retirement on November 1, 2024. Brian loved anything with wheels and power. He has participated in many car shows, tractor/truck pulls and drag races. Brian also loved his family and friends very much and would help anyone who asked.
Brian married Tammy McKay in 1990 and they had a daughter, Emily, whom he adored. He became stepfather to Tammy's daughters Laura and Amber. Tammy and Brian divorced in 2000.
Brian married his soulmate Kelly (Campbell) in February 2002, adding Jamie and Christopher to his family. They made their home in rural Troy, MN.
Brian is survived by his wife, Kelly, children Emily (Tyler) Moger of Preston MN, Jamie (Ahna Warner) Bushman of Muscle Shoals, AL, Christopher (Elizabeth) Bushman of St. Cloud, MN; grandchildren, Tyson Moger, Peyton Moger, Sawyer Moger, Walker Moger, Noah Bushman, Myla Bushman and Aspen Bushman; his sisters Cheryl (Roger) Brunt, Geraldine (Jim) Elringer, Marlys (Larry) Fiesler, Deb (Marlo) Mailka, Gayle (Kurt) Koenig and Karen (Michael) Ellsworth; mother-in-law Kathy Campbell; brothers-in-law Tom (Janet) Campbell, John Campbell, sisters-in-law Wendy (John) Steffel and Sue Portugal; and several nieces, nephews, great-nephews and great-great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents Ralph Shank and Marie (Shank) Balcom, Louis Balcom, father-in-law Alan Campbell, brother-in-law Greg Campbell and nephew Kevin Portugal.
A celebration of life for Brian and Mark Holzer, his best friend who left this world by Brian's side, will be held Saturday, October 5th, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Winona County Fairgrounds in St. Charles MN. In honor of Brian and Mark please wear Harley-Davidson and/or muscle car attire.
