Brian Leonard Finnemore

Born in Birmingham, England, to Joseph and May Finnemore, Brian Leonard Finnemore emigrated to the United States at 11 and as a boy became an American citizen, one of his proudest accomplishments.

Brian loved to spend time with family, play golf and fly his ultralight airplane. He also enjoyed the water, classic cars, model trains, reading, and listening to jazz. His experiences as a youngster in World War II England, including taking shelter in the London Underground and being evacuated to the country, helped shape his interest later in life in World War II history.

Brian met his beautiful wife, VeeAnn, while stationed in California with the Air Force. They raised two children, living in seven places overseas and across the United States during his distinguished 20-year military career that included service in Vietnam. The family liked camping, boating and visiting historic sites in their motor home. After Brian retired from the Air Force, they moved to Oregon in 1976. It was there that he joined the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, eventually becoming chief of contracting. With the Corps, Brian helped the region recover from the 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption.

Brian had a great sense of humor, soft heart and strong spirit, which drew people to him. His kids and grandkids were his greatest joy, and he enjoyed sitting on his deck on the bay, shooting the breeze with family and neighbors. He was a committed volunteer with the Lions Eye Bank.

Brian passed away with dignity and courage of heart failure. He is survived by VeeAnn, his wife of 53 years; daughter, DeeAnn Finnemore Akanbi; son, Barry Finnemore (Melody); and four grandchildren, Arielle, Jake, Mayah and Sam.

A service will be held at Willamette National Cemetery at 12:30 p.m. Aug. 13. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Brian’s name to Kaiser Hospice or to the American Heart Association.