Brian Stanley Cox

Brian Stanley Cox, age 84, of Grand Haven, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. He was born on July 22, 1941, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to the late Stanley and Marion (Holmes) Cox. Brian married the love of his life, Joan Pace, on December 28, 1963, in Grand Rapids. She preceded him in death on April 8, 2015, after 51 wonderful years of marriage.

Brian graduated from Wyoming Park High School, where he served as Class President and, alongside Joan, was honored as Homecoming King and Queen. He went on to become the owner and operator of one of the largest advertising firms in Grand Rapids, Nordstrom/Cox Marketing, Inc.

Brian was deeply involved in his community. He served as a former president of the American Cancer Society, past president of the Grand Rapids Area Jaycees, and a former Deacon of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Jenison.

A devoted University of Michigan football fan, Brian attended many games over the years. He loved traveling, spending time on the water boating, and made a cherished ritual of driving to the beach nearly every evening to watch the sunset. His grandchildren were truly the apples of his eye and affectionately called him, "Bompo." Spending time with them brought him his greatest joy.

Brian will be forever remembered and deeply missed by his daughter, Leanne (Kyle) Kowalski of Grand Haven; his son, Brent (Brenna) Cox of Hudsonville; his six grandchildren: Tye (Annie) Kowalski, Trevor Cox, Kylee Kowalski (Charlie Fodrocy), Caroline Cox, Thomas Kowalski, and Jack Kowalski; and his two great-grandchildren, Finn and Milo Fodrocy.

A private family Memorial Service to honor Brian's life will take place at Klaassen Family Funeral Home.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society of Michigan.

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