Brian Blair Sullivan Sr., age 53, passed away at home on Monday, April 22, 2024. He was born in Pontiac, Michigan on November 7, 1970. He was the son of Thomas and Gail Sullivan. Brian was a loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, USDA agricultural officer, and friend.

Brian is survived by his loving wife Lisa Sullivan and his children. Brian and Lisa married on July 7, 2017. They shared many beautiful memories together. Their love defies time and death, as this was part two of their love story.  Brian and Lisa were college sweethearts. Brian was the proud father of Brian Sullivan, Jr. (Josie), Brianna Sullivan, Madison Sullivan (Brendan), Claude Dana, and Jonathan Moore (Marissa). He was the doting grandfather to Millie-Anne Blair Sullivan. He was the brother of Shawn Sullivan (Cary) and Bridget Sullivan. Brian was the uncle to Caitlyn Sullivan, Conor Sullivan, Kyle Peasley and Kendall Peasley. He was well loved, and a friend to many.

Brian was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Patrick Sullivan, Jr. and Gail (Stevens) Sullivan; his grandparents, Thomas Patrick Sullivan, Sr., Dorothy Sullivan, Earl Stevens and Elva Blair; and his brother-in-law Brian Peasley.

Brian was a Plant Health Safeguarding Specialist at the USDA APHIS PPQ. Throughout his career, Brian was promoted to secondary senior officer in the State of Michigan. Brian had many achievements throughout his 25 years with the agency. Brian found the first Eastern Heath snail in the United States, and there are some species he identified listed at the Smithsonian. Brian has done a great deal of work protecting local ecosystems from invasive species. Brian orchestrated many outreach programs to help educate the community. He was most proud of his work at the Metro Youth Day on Belle Isle, annually in Detroit. Brian was extremely passionate and proud of his work.

Brian loved nature. He was most often found outside working on his homestead, which he lovingly named Serenity Seven Acre Woods. He enjoyed camping, fishing, hiking, scuba diving, snorkeling, metal detecting, hunting, and spending time with his beloved family. He loved to camp year round particularly at home on the property. Brian was able to identify most plants, animals, and insects. He was in his element when surrounded by nature, whether at work or at play.

Brian loved art and music. He never stopped watching cartoons. He enjoyed playing his guitar and other stringed instruments, attending concerts, painting, and attending antique and art auctions with his wife.

Brian will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and co-workers. He was greatly admired by those who knew him. His achievements at the USDA will leave a lasting legacy.

As Brian would say, "Life can suck at times; then life gives you baby toads! Life is always better with baby toads! You can't ask for much more." So, get out there in nature and find the baby toads. Brian will be there with you.

A Celebration of Life will be held 1 pm Thursday, May 2, 2024 at Stark Funeral Professionals (101 S. Washington Street, Ypsilanti). The family will receive friends at the funeral home 11 am until time of service.