Born: February 19, 1982
Place of birth: Carmichael, California
Died: July 24, 2006
Last residence: Fair Oaks, California
Graduated: Holy Rosary High School, June 2000
Parents: Kenny N. Giffard and Joanne Giffard (née Koeck)
Siblings: Kimberly A. Giffard-Remo, M.D., FACS
Kenneth Jay Giffard
Employment: Security Guard (2000 to 2006)
{ Part 1 }
Bryan was a beautiful child born with light blonde hair and brown eyes. In a matter of weeks, Bryan became the school’s baby, and the entire school attended his baptism in St. John’s Hall. Months later when Joanne returned to her classroom to teach, Bryan was very often escorted about by eager and doting Fifth graders. He was also the darling of both his brother Jay and his sister Kimberly.
{ Part 2 }
Later, Bryan went through several schools, and starting in the Fifth Grade, he was home schooled by his mother, who would teach her fifth graders during the day, and instruct Bryan in the evening. He and several of his friends joined a Carmichael Boy Scout Troop for several years. With his mother’s help, Bryan completed Holy Rosary High School with mostly “A” grades and numerous honors. During this time, Bryan also participated as a cadet in Civil Air Patrol, and as a dedicated member of the St. John the Evangelist Youth Ministry. The Youth Ministry gatherings were always positive events for Bryan. During the summer this group often went to scenic beaches and other special places. One memorable summer in 2000 was spent with the Youth Group on a trip to Lourdes and a visit to the Vatican in Rome.
Through dedication and considerable effort on his part, he earned a cadet officer rank and was presented the “Billy Mitchell” award. After a week’s encampment at Stead Air Force Base, the normally long-haired Bryan greeted his delighted parents, who had traveled from Sacramento to pick him up, with a smile and a shaved head. Bryan’s bonding with his cadre of fellow cadets and his steadfast work, also earned him the “ Most Improved Cadet “ award.
As a cadet, Bryan thoroughly enjoyed being in the Civil Air Patrol. To rise up in rank meant that he had to study not only about the Civil Air Patrol, but also about the history of the Air Force, its history , and its mission. His grandfather and his father had both invested many years as officers in the Air Force. Consequently after completing his homework, Bryan would diligently review the course materials that he would be tested on in Civil Air Patrol. Some Civil Air Patrol promotions included a physical fitness component, so Bryan would be out in the evenings running, so as to shave off a few seconds of his time to meet the new standard.
{ Part 3 }
{ Part 4 }
It was obvious that Bryan’s greatest strength and attribute was his compassion for others. Bryan never talked negatively about anyone. Bryan was thankful for the courtesies and kindness shown him, and he was usually referred to as “Mr. Thank You.” On more than one occasion, Bryan returned home from his night duties with a stray cat or dog, that he had found wandering about the apartments which he was protecting. Sometimes, he returned bearing gifts of a jacket or other items, which the residents that he was protecting gave him, to show their appreciation for his hard work and kindness. Even when Bryan had worked throughout the night, he always joined his parents for Sunday Mass. Later it was discovered, that Bryan always sent a monthly donation to the St. Jude Research Hospital.
It was well known that Bryan believed in fairness. Once, his father received a client’s interest in a truck as payment for work that he had completed for that client. Later, his father offered Bryan a one-half interest in this truck because all young men enjoy high-lift trucks. Until Bryan saw this red jacked-up monster, he refused his dad’s offer. Knowing that Bryan’s income was then somewhat limited, his father said that he would pay the greater part of the remaining monthly truck payments and Bryan, the lesser amount. Bryan responded that he would pay exactly one-half of these payments and one-half of any of the needed repairs. It was a part of Bryan’s character to be fair to everyone.
{ Part 5 }
Because of Bryan’s intellect, compassion, work ethic, and courage he would have become a wonderful husband and father. Bryan had visions of starting his own security firm, and he had spent hours researching the licenses and permits which would be needed to operate such a venture. Likewise, he had taken an examination and passed a test to enter the training to become a medical technician. Bryan was devoted to protecting his family and the community. At an early hour of the morning of July 24, 2006, Bryan died suddenly at the age of twenty-four. His family suffered profound grief and sorrow at the loss of Bryan Christopher. Although Bryan’s life was short-lived, he did live a beautiful life leaving many with an enduring memory of his positive impact on the community. He was laid to rest after a touching funeral Mass at St. John the Evangelist Church, which was followed by a gathering of many thoughtful family members, friends, and SJ.E. parishioners.
Credits:
Author: Joanne Giffard
Photos:
Introduction: Bryan at four years old
Part 1: The Frank Lloyd Wright Greek Orthodox Church
Part 2: Outside the Vatican with the Youth Ministry
Part 3: The Civil Air Patrol awards dinner
Part 4: Fun with his friends
Part 5: Passing under the Golden Gate Bridge
