Brian was born on November 18, 1963, in Belleville, KS to Bradley Killen and Deanna (Douglas) Killen. He grew up in and around Assaria, KS, where he attended Southeast of Saline Schools.
He went on to earn a B.S. in Computer Science from the best university in the state of Kansas, and despite his love of Lawrence, he remained a loyal Kansas State Wildcat throughout his life.
In 1985, Brian married Lori Wetzel, and they shared 40 years together. They had two children, Andrew Killen (Rebecca) and Eric Killen (Jason Steliga) of whom he was endlessly proud. Brian was especially known for his loving relationship with his grandchildren, JJ and Etta.
Brian worked in the software industry and his passion for technology was matched only by his commitment to nurturing the talents of others. His professional and personal generosity will live on through everyone lucky enough to know him.
Brian is survived by his mother, his siblings Darren Killen (Dustin Swartz), Jill Shields (Mark), Jon Killen (Christine) and in-laws Doug Wetzel (Jill Lindeman), Lyla Holt, Chad Hendrich (Joy), Barb Fahrenbruch (Larry), Amy Robinson and Adylaide Crocker. Brian cherished his role as uncle to Sydney Shields, Cole Killen (Clair), Sam Shields (Katelyn) and Jacob Wetzel.
He was preceded in death by his father; his father-in-law, Wayne Wetzel; grandparents Kenneth and Clara Killen, and Ward and Verneal Douglas; as well as numerous aunts and uncles.
All are welcome to gather for a visitation on Saturday April 18, 2026, at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home of Lawrence from 10AM to 12PM.
A private graveside burial at Oak Hill Natural Cemetery will follow.
Lunch will be provided from 12PM to 2PM at a location to be announced.
If you wish to remember Brian with a gift, the family recommends supporting Just Food. (https://secure.qgiv.com/for/onlingivi/)
I really enjoyed knowing Brian, he was a newer friend of mine actually! I met him through our wonderful poker group, always had a good time talking with him, I will miss him. So sorry for your loss.
Some of my fondest high school memories happened at the Killen house, and I’ll always be grateful to Brian and Lori for welcoming me into their home. Sending all my love to the whole Killen family. Brian was obviously so loved and will be so sorely missed.
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We are keeping all of you in our prayers for comfort and healing knowing the days ahead will be difficult. Our love, Dee and Jan Kolzow
To the entire Killen Family, and to my childhood friend and college roommate, Lori: May Brian’s memory be only for a blessing to all of us who loved and knew him so well. Brian knew how to make us all laugh with his great sense of humor. I know how much he loved Lori and his family. He spoke so lovingly of his grandchildren and his life in Lawrence. I will miss his text updates and inquires of our lives. I have so many found memories of our time at Southeast of Saline, and of course the year Lori and Brian were together while we were at Kstate! I was honored to be part of your wedding…and what a wonderful 40 years you two enjoyed! Thinking of you now, and always, Lori. Jill Archer-Idelman
Killen family – you are all in my thoughts and prayers at this time. I know Rebecca, Andew, Lori, JJ and Etta will have bundles of memories from Brian’s immense love and presence. Love. Dale
Dear Lori and family,
My thoughts are with you. I am sorry for your loss. Sending love and light.
So sorry for your loss. Prayers to all of Brian’s family. #Class of 82
I worked with Brian for a short time. He was always so kind, patient and positive. I’m thankful I got to know him a little. So sorry for your loss.
My condolences and prayers to you, Lori and Darren, and the rest of your family. Brian was definitely a pioneer in tech in high school!! I have good memories of him from the day! Blessings and peace to you all.
Sherry (Everhart) Jackson
Dearest Lori, I am so deeply sorry to hear of Brian’s passing. This saddens my heart for you and your family. Such wonderful memories of him back in our school days. I’m sure he was the thread that kept your family connected and firecracker that kept life pop’s!
He truly will be a great void in all your lives. His visual presence may not be there but the wonderful memories he has left behind will remain close at heart.
I pray for comfort,understanding and strength during this difficult time.
May our Father grant you Serenity and Blessings always 🙏 ✨️ ❤️!
Lori, Darren, and all of Brian’s family, I am so shocked and saddened to hear of Brian’s passing. Sending you all my deepest condolences and love during this time.
Lori and boys- I have fond memories of knowing your family at Sunflower. I am so sorry to hear about Brian’s passing. Know I am thinking of you all at this time of heartache and grief. Love, Martha Wenzel
Oh I was so shocked and so very saddened to hear of Brian’s passing. May God bless you as you mourn his loss!
I was very shocked to see this. Brian and were classmates. All my prayers and condolences to all his family.
I’m so very sorry for your loss. It was a shock to see this. I was a classmate with Darren and loved all of the Killen family. Sending hugs and Prayers to everyone ❤️
Killen family: I was shocked to hear of Brian’s sudden passing. He was a friend of mine since high school. I am grateful that we were able to keep in touch on Facebook to keep that friendship going. I wish you my deepest sympathy, peace and comfort in the difficult days ahead. Rest In Peace, my brother from another mother.
Lori, Andrew, Becca, Eric, and Jason: I am so very sorry for the loss you’re having to endure. Wishing you comfort in your memories of Brian and the love of your friends and family.
Rebecca, Eric, Andrew and family. I am so shocked to read about Brian’s passing. Sending you all love during this very difficult time. Please accept our whole family’s sincere condolences.
In Sympathy,
Purviz, Tiraz, Aryenish and Parendi
Andrew, Rebecca, and family – I’m so sorry for your loss. Please know I’m thinking of you during this difficult time.