Brian Daley Obituary, Cause of Death: Lewiston Farmer Remembered for His Generosity and Devotion to Family

October 9, 2026

The Lewiston, Minnesota, community is mourning Brian Daley, a 60-year-old farmer whose unexpected death on October 2, 2026, has left his family, friends, and neighbors remembering a man known for his kindness, optimism, and deep connection to the people around him.

Brian was much more than a farmer. He was a devoted husband to Cathy, a proud father to Lauren and Evan, and a familiar presence in the community where he spent most of his life. Whether working on the family farm, cheering for his children, or stopping to talk with a neighbor, he found ways to make ordinary moments meaningful.

Those who knew Brian will remember his welcoming personality, his sense of humor, and the positive outlook captured in his favorite expression: “never had a bad day.”

His passing has brought sadness to those who shared in his life, while the memories he created continue to reflect the love and generosity that defined him.

Brian Daley’s Life and Family

Born in Rochester, Minnesota, Brian grew up with strong ties to Lewiston, where he spent nearly all his life apart from his college years. His roots in the community became an important part of his identity, shaping the relationships and traditions he maintained throughout adulthood.

One of Brian’s greatest sources of happiness was his family. He married Cathy on June 13, 1992, and together they raised their children, Lauren and Evan, building a life centered on shared experiences, encouragement, and lasting family traditions.

Brian took pride in being present for his children. Despite the demands of farming, he made time for their school activities and sporting events, offering encouragement and celebrating their achievements.

He continued to speak proudly of Lauren and Evan as they grew older, sharing their accomplishments with the same enthusiasm he had shown throughout their childhood.

Family gatherings also held a special place in his heart. Annual vacations, meals with Cathy and the children, and Sunday coffee visits with his parents were among the moments he treasured most.

A Farmer Whose Heart Always Led Him Home

Brian’s relationship with agriculture became a defining part of his life, although his future initially seemed open to other possibilities.

He left for the University of Minnesota Twin Cities in 1984 and earned a degree in psychology. Despite considering a different career path, he eventually returned to farming, finding purpose in the work and the life it offered.

Brian approached farming with dedication and a distinctive sense of humor. He sometimes joked that his psychology education helped him understand both cattle and people, reflecting his ability to find amusement in everyday experiences.

For him, the farm represented more than a livelihood. It was a place connected to his history, his family, and the friendships he developed over the years.

His work and personal life often came together through conversations with visitors, neighbors, and others who crossed his path. He had a natural ability to make people feel comfortable, turning brief encounters into lasting connections.

The Kindness and Humor That Defined Brian Daley

Brian’s generosity was evident in the small but thoughtful ways he made others feel appreciated.

He enjoyed walking with Walter, the family Corgi, greeting neighbors and stopping for conversations along the way. Sitting on the porch and waving to passing motorists was another familiar part of his routine in Lewiston.

His interests included people, babies, pets, Jeeps, puzzles, and sharing stories about farming. He also had an impressive collection of unusual facts that often helped him start conversations with people from different backgrounds.

Brian’s generosity extended to community events and holiday traditions. At the Fool’s Five auction, he enjoyed buying quilts and giving them to others. Each December, he spent hours making wooden reindeer to surprise friends and relatives with handmade Christmas gifts.

These gestures revealed a man who found fulfillment in giving rather than simply receiving. He took pleasure in surprising people, sharing what he had, and creating reasons for others to smile.

His collection of Life is Good T-shirts reflected the cheerful attitude he carried into everyday life. That optimism, along with his familiar greeting and friendly conversation, became part of how many people remembered him.

Brian Daley’s Family and Survivors

Brian leaves behind his wife, Cathy, and their children, Lauren Hohensee (Arron) and Evan Daley (Riley Olson).

His parents, Mike and Sandy Daley, also survive him, along with his siblings: Mark Daley (Sonja), Shelly DePestel (Dean), Matt Daley (Barb), Neil Daley (Hally), Ben Daley (Sara), and Megan Ruthchild (Rafi).

He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who were part of his extended family.

Brian was preceded in death by his grandparents, George and Helen Daley and Alan and Honey Howard; his parents-in-law, Roland and Dorothy Terhaar; and his uncle, Bernie Daley.

His loss will be felt across generations of relatives and among the many friends and neighbors who came to know him through farming, family connections, and everyday encounters.

Brian Daley Cause of Death

According to the memorial information provided, Brian Daley died unexpectedly on October 2, 2026, at the age of 60.

The specific cause of death was not disclosed in the supplied notice. No further medical information or explanation of the circumstances surrounding his passing was provided.

Until additional information is confirmed by the family or an authoritative source, the cause of Brian’s death remains undisclosed.

Funeral Mass and Celebration of Life in Lewiston

Brian’s family announced plans to gather with relatives, friends, and community members in Lewiston on Friday, October 9, 2026, to honor his life.

The Funeral Mass is scheduled for 2 p.m. at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, with Reverend Michael Churchill officiating. According to the notice, there will be no visitation before the Mass.

A celebration of life is scheduled to follow from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at The Crossings Center in Lewiston. Food will be provided, while drinks for guests wishing to toast Brian will be available for purchase.

The family has encouraged attendees to wear their Life is Good shirts or other clothing that brings Brian to mind. The request reflects the optimism associated with him and offers friends and relatives a personal way to celebrate his life.

Those planning to attend should confirm the arrangements with the family or the relevant venue in case of changes.

Brian Daley Obituary and Cause of Death: A Legacy of Love and Generosity

Brian Daley will be remembered as a devoted husband, a proud father, a hardworking farmer, and a friend who made people feel welcome wherever he went.

His life was shaped by the relationships he nurtured and the thoughtful gestures he offered so freely. Whether supporting his children’s ambitions, creating handmade Christmas gifts, or stopping to greet a neighbor, he demonstrated that kindness often lives in the simplest actions.

His familiar words, “never had a bad day,” capture the spirit with which he approached life. Although his unexpected passing has left his family and community grieving, the memories of his humor, generosity, and love for others will remain.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to Cathy, Lauren, Evan, the Daley family, and everyone mourning Brian’s passing. May the love he shared and the memories he leaves behind bring them comfort and strength in the days ahead.

Disclaimer

This obituary has been rewritten from the memorial information supplied for this article. Brian Daley’s death was reported as unexpected, but the specific cause of death was not disclosed in the provided material and has not been independently verified. Funeral and celebration-of-life details are based on the supplied notice and may be subject to change. Readers should confirm arrangements with the family, St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, or the relevant venue before attending.