Brian Patrick Walsh, of Syracuse, New York, passed away on March 8, 2026, at the age of 69, after a short battle with cancer.  Brian Proudly served for 32 years as a Peace Officer at SUNY-ESF in Syracuse, dedicating himself to protecting and serving the campus community before his retirement.

Outside of work, Brian treasured friendships and the simple joys of life.  His storytelling, a good sense of humor, and the camaraderie of time spent with friends - especially time spent on the golf course with his buddies.  Brian was a ferocious reader, a huge history buff and took great pride in his Irish heritage.  Many of Brian’s fondest moments were shared at Coleman’s Authentic Irish Pub, where Brian’s presence, stories, and quick wit made him a familiar and welcome face.  To his many friends he was known as “Walshie.”

Brian was predeceased by his beloved mother, Mercedes; his father, John “Jack,” his older brother, Eric, his niece, Olivia Wager, and his beloved dog, Maggie, who held a very special place in his heart.

Brian is survived by his sisters, Colleen Wager (Rick) and Kelly Gutchess; his brother, Kevin Walsh; nieces, Jillian Wager, Sarah Gutchess, and Lisa McCall; and nephews, Jake Wager, Cory Gutchess, and John Walsh.  Friends will also forever cherish the memories they shared with him.

Special thanks and gratitude go to the doctors who cared so deeply for Brian:  Dr. Julie Colvin, who shared a special bond with Brian for over 30 years, and Dr. Scott Zuckefoose of St. Joseph’s Hospital, an angel on earth who took exceptional care of Brian. On occasion, Dr. Scott became the brunt of Brian’s sarcasm and wit, but he quickly learned to appreciate Brian’s wit and laughed along with him, always admiring Brian’s courage and strength throughout his difficult journey.  Brian was so thankful that he was able to get to Francis House in his last days.  A tremendous thank you to the compassionate and caring staff there who made Brian’s last days comfortable and surrounded Brian with their loving care.

Per Brian’s request, there will be no calling hours.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12pm at St. Patrick’s Church, 216 N. Lowell Ave., Syracuse, NY on Friday, March 20, 2026.  Burial to follow in Greenlawn Memorial Cemetery, Warners, NY.  In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Francis House, 108 Michaels Ave., Syracuse, NY 13208, or the Tipperary Hill Neighborhood Association, 110 S. Lowell Ave., Syracuse, NY 13204.

Brian will be remembered for the laughter he brought to those around him, his sharp sense of humor, his love of golf, his passion for history, his pride in his Irish heritage, and the friendships he held dear.  His memory will live on in the stories told and the many lives he touched. 

May the road rise to meet you, Brian, and may Heaven be ready for your wit and laughter.  

See you on the other side, Walshie.