Brian Douglas Mackey

07/07/1969 — 04/02/2013

From Kennewick, WA, US | Born in Colorado Springs, CO

Brian Douglas Mackey

Lieutenant Brian Douglas Mackey age 43, passed away peacefully in Kennewick, WA on April 2, 2013 after a courageous battle with brain cancer. Brian's wife Dawn was at his side.

Born July 7th, 1969 in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Brian enlisted in the United States Coast Guard in 1989 progressing through the ranks promoting to Lieutenant in 2010. Brian served his country for 24 years, protecting American freedom and interests both foreign and domestic.

Brian graduated and received a Bachelor of Science degree in History from Excelsior College. A life long learner, Brian had special interests in Roman and medieval history. In 1993 Brian married the love of his life, Dawn Fox and they spent the next 20 years together in love and happiness.

Brian is survived by his wife Dawn Mackey of Kennewick, WA. Dawn's parents Robert R. and Leann E. Fox Sr., of Kennewick WA. Dawn's twin sister Dana and husband Joe Richter of Kennewick, WA, Dawn's brother Robert R. and Kylee L. Fox Jr. of Pasco WA, and Dawn's sister and niece Bobbie and Savannah Fox of Richland WA.

Brian is survived by his parents Robert and Audrey Mackey of Port Ludlow WA, sister Shannon Trigg of Loveland, CO and brother Samuel Mackey of Colorado Springs, CO and grandmother Nancy Weatherbie of Port Ludlow, WA. Parents, Virgil Wayne and Michelle Trigg, a brother James Trigg and a sister Jennifer Trigg all of Birmingham, Alabama.

Brian was a loving husband, brother and friend to anyone in need. Brian was a generous and giving man. He had a tremendous smile, loved to laugh, sing and talk about seeing Europe. Brian was also a highly respected and decorated US serviceman who lived his life with integrity, values and a strong sense of self. Brian was a highly regarded and distinguished Officer of the United States Coast Guard. Brian was active duty at the time of his passing. He refused to give in and always believed he would return to his ship. Brian not only protected his country he protected his family and his friends. Brian was a meticulous man who took great pride in every aspect of his life; each and every day was done with a spirit of excellence. Everyone who knew Brian loved him, his humor and smile will be dearly missed. Brian lived his life bravely with a song in his heart. He never complained or blamed anyone for his illness. Brian died with dignity and love in his heart. You will have never known a better man, or a more honorable man.

Brian will be honored as a true "American Hero" at 10:00 am on Saturday April, 6th 2013 at Sunset Memorial Gardens 915 Bypass Highway Richland, WA with burial to follow. Relatives and friends are welcome at the reception following the burial at Memories at the Sunset Events Center. The U.S.C.G. will be attending, participating and respectfully honoring their fallen shipmate.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to The Chaplaincy 1480 Fowler St., Richland, WA 99352.

Guestbook for

Brian Douglas Mackey

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

PUBLIC ENTRY

Your guestbook entry will be visible to the public.

  • I will ride the bike he gave me with fond memory. He was a good man and will be missed by his Port Angeles family. I regret that I couldn’t have been there or done more in this process. I wish I could have shared these condolences directly. I have faith in a better place. The better man has gone first to lead the way. I have been blessed.

    Gregory Bondy
    November 4, 2014
    Port, Angeles, WA, United, States
  • My prayers are with your family.

    Ernest Ramos, BM1
    November 4, 2014
    Seattle, WA, USA
  • I had the pleasure of meeting Brian as a brand new Ensign on CGC ACTIVE in 2003. Chief Mackey was one of the best mentors a young junior officer could ask for and was an outstanding leader for Deck Force. He was an outstanding shipmate and a tremendous asset to the USCG. Fair winds and following seas Brian!

    George Cottrell
    November 4, 2014
    Kodiak, AK
  • Go be with God sir. You deserve peace. You will be missed.

    Anthony Ross
    November 4, 2014
    San, Pedro, CA, USA
  • I didn’t know Mr. Mackey that long, but what I knew of him he was a great coast guardsman and person. You truely made a difference in my career and you will be missed. May you rest in peace.

    Marika Benggio
    November 4, 2014
    Novato, CA, USA
  • LT Brian Mackey will be truly missed by all who knew him. He was an amazing person, great friend, a TRUE LEADER, and people followed eagerly. I will always remember Brian’s loud laughter, big smile, while walking around our unit MSST San Francisco 91105 with a cup of coffee in hand. He always made time for anyone that needed it, sharing advice when asked for it. Brian, we will all miss you, but your memory will live on forever.

    Christine Yoshimura
    November 4, 2014
    Traverse, City, MI
  • Dawn,

    I was saddened to hear of Brian’s passing. He fought a courageous battle for so long, and always with you at his side. I hope you can find peace in your heart knowing that Brian is now at peace and I’m certain watching over you and the family.

    Blessings,

    Mark A. Haag

    Mark Haag
    November 4, 2014
    Port, Angeles, WA, USA
  • I will ride the bike he gave me with fond memory. He was a good man and will be missed by his Port Angeles family. I regret that I couldn’t have been there or done more in this process. I wish I could have shared these condolences directly. I have faith in a better place. The better man has gone first to lead the way. I have been blessed.

    Gregory Bondy
    November 4, 2014
    Port, Angeles, WA, United, States
  • My prayers are with your family.

    Ernest Ramos, BM1
    November 4, 2014
    Seattle, WA, USA
  • I had the pleasure of meeting Brian as a brand new Ensign on CGC ACTIVE in 2003. Chief Mackey was one of the best mentors a young junior officer could ask for and was an outstanding leader for Deck Force. He was an outstanding shipmate and a tremendous asset to the USCG. Fair winds and following seas Brian!

    George Cottrell
    November 4, 2014
    Kodiak, AK
  • Go be with God sir. You deserve peace. You will be missed.

    Anthony Ross
    November 4, 2014
    San, Pedro, CA, USA
  • I didn’t know Mr. Mackey that long, but what I knew of him he was a great coast guardsman and person. You truely made a difference in my career and you will be missed. May you rest in peace.

    Marika Benggio
    November 4, 2014
    Novato, CA, USA
  • LT Brian Mackey will be truly missed by all who knew him. He was an amazing person, great friend, a TRUE LEADER, and people followed eagerly. I will always remember Brian’s loud laughter, big smile, while walking around our unit MSST San Francisco 91105 with a cup of coffee in hand. He always made time for anyone that needed it, sharing advice when asked for it. Brian, we will all miss you, but your memory will live on forever.

    Christine Yoshimura
    November 4, 2014
    Traverse, City, MI
  • Dawn,

    I was saddened to hear of Brian’s passing. He fought a courageous battle for so long, and always with you at his side. I hope you can find peace in your heart knowing that Brian is now at peace and I’m certain watching over you and the family.

    Blessings,

    Mark A. Haag

    Mark Haag
    November 4, 2014
    Port, Angeles, WA, USA
  • Having heard nothing but great things about Brian, I wish I had the honor of meeting him. Am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with the whole family

    Barb wolski
    November 4, 2014
    Kennewick, WA
  • My sincere condolences to Dawn, Bob, Audrey,Shannon and Sam and to all of Brian’s extended family.

    Brian is a treasured childhood friend and he will be deeply missed. Our time growing up in the Springs was some of the best of my life. Thank you Brian for your great friendship and for your service to our nation.

    Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. Rest in Peace old friend.

    Tony Porfirio
    November 4, 2014
    Austin, TX
  • Our condolences to the entire Mackey family. Brian was an inspiration and an absolute hero to me. I am awed by the courage he demonstrated throughout his cancer treatments over the past 2.5 years. His courage impacted others – an incredible role model and mentor who will never be forgotten.

    Darran & Heahter McLenon
    November 4, 2014
    Sequim, WA, USA
  • Mr. Mackey was the OPS Boss on the USCGC Active when I stationed there. Mr. Mackey was a great inspiration for me. He was an officer that came up through the enlisted ranks. Being an enlisted person he was someone to look up to. Mr. Mackey was a down to earth guy that always had time for you. One thing that I admired most about Mr. Mackey was that you knew he cared about you. Mr. Mackey touched many people and I believe everybody that came in contact him became a better person because of the example he set. The Coast Guard lost a great sailor and many coasties lost a great leader and friend. Rest In Peace Mr. Mackey, you will be missed but, your memory will never be forgotten.

    – Mark Canchola

    Mark Canchola
    November 4, 2014
    San, Tan, Valley, AZ
  • I had great admiration for LT Mackey. In the short time I was stationed with him at USCG MSST Seattle 91101 I learned what real dedication and true honor were all about. I will carry his memory with me through the rest of my career and use his example to better myself as a Coast Guardsman.

    BM1 Peter Loreaux
    November 4, 2014
    Medford, NJ
  • I served with Mr. Mackey in Alameda, CA at MSST 91105. My prayers go out to his friends and family. God Bless and fair winds.

    Paul Vanacore
    November 4, 2014
    Atlantic, City, NJ
  • I remember sharing space on the bench in the locker room because my locker was beside his and he never failed to make me laugh because of the way he could blend his serious demeanor and his inner comedian. I remember so many times while on deployment with MSST 91105 he would take charge like no else could or would because he was the BOSN! He inspired me to start my degree while I was an E4 just starting out in the USCG. He will be missed.

    Respectfully,

    ME1 Glenn Hyzak

    Glenn Hyzak
    November 4, 2014
    San, Diego, CA, USA
  • Brian was one of the greatest men I have ever known. Beyond his exemplary career as an Officer in the US Coast Guard, he was a loving husband. Many of our private conversations we shared together were about his beautiful wife. I knew more about Dawn and his love for her months before I had the opportunity meet her. To me, Brian was my friend and the memories of our friendship will never be forgotten. To the family; you will forever be in my thoughts and prayers.

    Jon Nolan, CWO, USCG Ret.
    November 4, 2014
    Houston, TX
  • Brian was a great friend and mentor to me from the day I met him at ANT Kennewick in 1994. I have since served with many Coast Guardsmen who worked with or for “Chief”, “Chief Warrant Officer”, or “Lieutenant” Mackey. Every person who knew or worked with Brian describe him in a similar way; he was a selfless leader who was extremely competent and dedicated to the Coast Guard and his shipmates. He will be missed.

    LCDR Jeff Craig
    November 4, 2014
    Colorado, Springs, CO
  • Fair winds shipmate – thank you for standing the watch. Rest knowing that we have assumed the watch and will endeavor to carry on your legacy of loyalty, professionalism, and integrity.

    Glenn Galman
    November 4, 2014
    Alameda, CA, USA
  • Dawn, Kathy and kids are deeply sadened to hear of Brian’s unfortunate passing. I am sorry we have not kept in touch since we left San Fransisco. We are thinking about you and your family.

    Richard Greidanus
    November 4, 2014
    New, York, NY
  • Brian, I miss you tremendously and was honored to have known you. You and Dawn’s friendship meant a lot to Sandra and I, and I thank you for making me a better person through all that you did. Without reservation or doubt, you were the finest officer I ever served with.

    CDR Greg Thomas
    November 4, 2014
    Washington, DC
  • My prayers are with you in your times of sorrow. I was staioned with Brian in Alameda. He will be missed.

    Respectfully

    Cliff Fuller

    Clifford Fuller
    November 4, 2014
    Seattle, WA, USA
  • Dawn, we are so sorry for your loss! Words cannot describe how much Brian will be missed. He was a true friend to all and an inspiration to say the least. Our prayers are with you during this time of grief.

    Sincerely, The Osburns

    Rich & Jen Osburn
    November 4, 2014
    Huntington, Beach, CA, US
  • Dawn and family, I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.

    Karla, Tristan & Mariah Brush

    Karla Brush
    November 4, 2014
    West, Richland, WA, USA
  • To the Fox, Mackey and Trigg families:

    I met Brian when he was THREE years old, and watched him grow into a wonderful man. He was a pretty good kid, too. His Mom and I have been coworkers, friends, and sisters in Christ, and she introduced me to my late husband! His Dad Bob came into his life while he was still young, and he’s part of the reason Brian grew into the wonderful person he is.

    Dawn – I hope to meet you someday – because Brian wanted to love you forever on this planet and you must be pretty heart-special too, then.

    May God comfort you all as you begin life here without Brian,looking forward to the moment we will be changed in an instant, be in His Presence, and see those who have gone on before.

    Much love and hugs,

    Sandra

    Sandra DeMott Zabukovic
    November 4, 2014
    Colorado, Springs, CO, USA
  • My deepest sympathy.

    Don Kidder
    November 4, 2014
    Kennewick, WA, usa
  • We are truly honored and privileged to have known Brian. He had a “larger than life” personality, and mischievous sparkle in his eye. Brian’s laugh was contagious and robust. He was a man of great integrity who deeply loved the country he served. Please accept our sincere condolences to you, Dawn and the entire family.

    Teri and Gary Casper

    Sequim, WA

    Teri & Gary Casper
    November 4, 2014
    Sequim, WA, USA
  • Mr. Mackey is greatly missed. There are very few leaders like him in the Coast Guard and he was a roll model for us all.

    Mike Carlson
    November 4, 2014
    Concord, CA
  • Brian was the quintessential shipmate, leader and Chief. It was an honor to have served with him in USCGC ACTIVE. My sincere condolences for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

    Stuart Lebruska
    November 4, 2014
    Topeka, KS
  • I will so miss your entire family, may you find peace in your memories. Thankyou for sharing Brian with us, it was my honor helping take care of him. You all became part of our family. Much love and hugs to you all. Garnet

    Garnet Philleo
    November 4, 2014
    Eltopia, WA
  • Sending my love and prayers, God be with you,

    Pam Clark

    Pam Clark
    November 4, 2014
    West, Richland, WA, United, States
  • Dear Bob, Audrey, Shannon, and Dawn,

    Please accept our condolences on the loss of Brian. We will always remember him as a smiling, engaged young man, ready for what life had to offer . We were so proud to read of his accomplishments. We thank him for his service to our country. God bless you all!

    David and Donna Porfirio
    November 4, 2014
    Fruita, CO, USA
  • I was privileged to work with Mr. Mackey in SF and Seattle; he was a great mentor and friend. You never know when it’s your time to go, Brian did it well he will be dearly missed. Fair well and following seas, Shipmate.

    ME1 Nathanael Diaz
    November 4, 2014
    New, London, CT, USA
  • Dawn and family,

    Sorry for your loss. Our condolences to you all. He was a great person and enjoyed the times we were able to spend with him.

    Lindsay and Ryan Hopper
    November 4, 2014
    Port, Angeles, WA
  • I had my first date with Debi because of Dawn’s help. Over the years we were fortunate enough when Brian wasn’t out to sea and I wasn’t traveling for work to spend some time together. All I knew about Brian was he was in the coast guard and was gone a lot. He’s not the kind of guy to boast. I had no idea for the longest time how successful he was. It was always kind of special if Dawn and Brian both were coming. We mostly laughed, talked and laughed some more. Gold mining in Colorado and horses chasing Dawn in Puerto Rico. Deb and I talked often how perfect they were for each other. I would of love to spent more time with him and if you were lucky enough to call him your friend I would say you had something. Debi and I love you both. We will treasure those times.

    Tony & Debi Barlow
    November 4, 2014
    Port, Angeles, WA
  • In 1969, I, Jean Waldron Weatherbie -14 yrs. old at the time, flew out to Colorado and was able to hold my new little nephew who was just born. I remember I was given a chance to change his diaper – well, I was in the process of taking off the wet diaper and putting on the new one, when Brian couldn’t wait, he peed all over the front of me…for a 14 year old, it took me by surprise! In 1972, I lived with Audrey, Shannon and Brian. I was a Senior in H.S. It was a fun year staying with them and getting to know my nephew Brian 3 yrs. old and my niece Shannon 1 1/2 yrs.old. Once Brian went into the Coast Guard and when I married Mel and left Colorado, I didn’t see much of Brian – even though he and all the family were in my heart. Brian, your Aunt will really miss you. Thank you for all your hard work and for watching over us and keeping us safe. Love and peace, Aunt Jeannie UMC Pastor, Wisconsin Conference

    Rev. Jean Waldron
    November 4, 2014
    Peshtigo, WI, United, States
  • Dawn,

    Thank you for sharing Brian with us! He was a special man who served his country and the Coast Guard with great pride. I have never served with a more capable Command Chief, always placing the needs of his shipmates above his own. I know he loved his time aboard ACTIVE – he will live forever in his shipmates that he served with.

    CAPT DJ Smith
    November 4, 2014
    Silverdale, WA
  • Call Now Button