Brad Needham

Brad Needham
Holland and Portage Michigan

Brad Needham, 58, passed away at his home in Holland, Michigan. While saddened at Brad's sudden passing, we take comfort in knowing that he is at peace; free of his earthly struggles and illnesses and at his mom's side in heaven. Brad was born on July 6, 1957 in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He grew up in Portage and spent the vast majority of his years there. He was happy being a "Portage guy" his entire life. He would want us to make sure we point out that he was the "Portage Northern Brad Needham" (class of 1975) as he was often confused with the "Portage Central Brad Needham" who was around the same age. Brad moved to Holland earlier this year to be near his brother. Comfortable in his new home, he was looking forward to summer in Holland after experiencing his first West Michigan lakeshore winter. Brad was a gentle soul, liking virtually everyone he met, was quick to greet strangers yet comfortable being an introverted loner. Brad was a good guy who was dealt some lousy hands and ultimately detoured from the better life we all felt he deserved. He loved, and was tremendously proud of, the 23 years he spent as a copywriter and editor at Biggs-Gilmore Advertising in Kalamazoo. He looks fondly on his career there and the many friends he made. Brad took tremendous pride in his daughter Erica and son Colin, both of whom he loved dearly. They meant everything to him and made him a truly rich man. After his family, Brad loved his Detroit Tigers, Chicago Cubs and Michigan State Spartans along with all of his televised sports he watched around the clock. Sports were always an important part of his life, from the time he was a slick-fielding Little League first baseman to his adult years, enjoying the games from the couch. While Brad died too young, he lived a good life with much happiness and accomplishment; a good life that was interspersed with some disappointment and setbacks - like most of us. We give thanks to the Lord for taking him peacefully. We know the good heart he had puts him in good stead with God. The family celebrated Brad's life with a memorial service on May 28th. Brad is survived by his dad, Robert W. Needham, his children Erica and Colin, his brothers Jeff (Erin), Kevin (Brenda) and sister Kim (John) Gunyou and a host of nieces and nephews that admired and laughed at Brad's quick wit and dry sense of humor. We all rejoice in knowing that Brad will always be with us.