Gifts to Celebrate Brad Minar's Life

Hi,

As many of you know, my Father, Brad Minar, unfortunately passed away from Covid-19. He was admitted directly to the ICU in the hospital September 29th, was placed in a coma on October 5th, and went to be home with his Maker on October 18th. He was surrounded by those he loved most dearly; Myself (Bethany) his only child, his wife Michele, his parents Ron and Sharon, my boyfriend Mikey, and joined in via Facetime with my Mother Judy, and his closest friends Rick and Tammy, and their daughter Jenna.

 

He seemed to be improving, and we were filled with hope, but as things go with Covid, one night his body just stopped responding, and I got a call at 6:30 am to get Michele and race to my Father's side. Michele and I were then left with the choice to take what little control we had over the situation, and set him free of all the excruciating pain and discomfort his body was going through, as opposed to keeping him trapped inside a body that was simply done fighting.

 

My Father was a man who wanted to live life, and enjoy it; and to keep him fighting in a body just for the sake of saying 'he's alive' was no life at all. At that moment, there was no doubt in our minds that his time had come, and we wanted to be there when he took his final breaths.

 

My Dad was the most kind, 'gentle giant' and generous man that we know, and a hug from him could wash away all your doubts and fears. He was sincere and intentional with every word and action he took, from caring about the safety of a tiny bug, to ethical hunting/fishing, to truly listening to your stories, to offering well thought over advice, to giving to those in need, and being a true example of what living an intentional life is all about.

 

He was an avid outdoors man and fisherman; official 'first mate' to his best friend Rick, enjoyed traveling the world, often choosing to go off the beaten path just to explore and get lost in nature for a while, an analytical chemist at Dow Corning, then to DuPont, played softball, and so much more. He found peace in the woods, and deep fulfilling comfort when amongst those he loved most dearly. He had an unexpected adventurous side that was just emerging and growing, which his wife Michele brought out in him. He wanted to travel the world, and see what beauty God has to offer. He never missed an opportunity for a Sunday afternoon nap, listening to The Lions lose, or rooting for The Tigers.

 

My Dad's wishes were to not have a funeral, or memorial, other than maybe a small private friends/family gathering, as he was just a very private guy. In lieu of flowers, if you'd like to contribute to this Go Fund Me, it would help cover the costs of his remaining wishes, costs accumulated from medical bills, costs to get items unlocked, overdue fees, help with transportation costs, taking care of myself and Michele, my grandparents (Dad's parents) in rehab from getting Covid themselves, taking care of grandparents dog Bella, cleaning his belongings, etc. Meals are also welcome and appreciated for Michele, myself, or eventually my grandparents.

 

If you'd like to mail something, these are the addresses:

Bethany Minar

4902 Universal Dr.

Midland, MI 48640

 

Michele Eisenberger

5616 Windfield Dr.

Bay City, MI 48706

 

Thank you so much to everyone who loved him, worked with him, knew him from K-12 school, college, softball, church, neighbors, and everything else.. thank you. If you have any stories, please feel free to post them here in the comments, on his Facebook, or send directly to my email or Michele’s email (should be linked or just ask one of us)

 

We want more than anything to have him back, but as that can't happen, we’d love to hear any and all stories you might have about my Daddy and loving husband to Michele.

 

Our deepest thanks, reminding you to hug those you love, and stay safe,

 

Bethany Minar and Michele Eisenberger