THE VOICE OF CHICAGO'S GAY, LESBIAN, BI, TRANS AND QUEER COMMUNITY SINCE 1985

He had just returned from four days in New York City—where, despite his two-year battle with ALS, he saw two Broadway shows and met the casts, toured The Museum of Modern Art and Central Park, and enjoyed time with his two best friends, Kathy Cecchin of LA and Jim Fischer of Bangkok, who flew in to join him.

Brian was born June 18, 1962 in Portland, Michigan, to a large and loving family. He attended Hope College ( where he majored in theater ) and performed at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. He moved to Chicago, acting and waiting tables. In 1988, in the lobby of Steppenwolf Theatre where he worked, Brian met Mike Maliszewski, his partner and husband of 31 years. Together they traveled extensively, throughout the United States and the world: Spain, Italy, France, Mexico, Canada, Thailand, Australia, Cambodia and Peru. Brian became an executive assistant for several prestigious non-for profit organizations until he was diagnosed with ALS in November 2017.

Brian loved theater and kids. His most fulfilling days were spent with The About Face Youth Theatre. As a co-founder and important leader of the program, Brian became a gay dad to hundreds of youth, helping them to find their voices through his example. It was his proudest accomplishment and a great legacy. Thanks to the strong foundation that Brian helped to create, About Face Youth Theatre just turned 20 years old—and Brian attended the opening night performance last summer. And, yes, he cried.

Brian's family requests that donations be made in his honor to About Face Youth Theatre. People may do so at aboutfacetheater.com/support-us/donate, and in the box labeled "Anything you'd like to add?" please mention Brian's name. A Chicago memorial celebration will be held Sunday, April 19; people may register at www.eventbrite.com/e/celebration-of-the-life-of-brian-goodman-tickets-96360014397 .