Bradley Alan is in my contacts as 'Brad Fast Wave' because even if I was plumb on the opposite end of Broadway street, I could easily recognize Brad by his signature low and quick, lively wave. It was understated, but full of energy, just like him.
Brad and I worked together in a tiny cafe in Skagway, Alaska during my first winter. I LOVED seeing his name beside mine on the schedule, because I knew several things could be expected:
1. While his nimble fingers perpared pastries, he would nonchalantly unravel a winding tale full of perilous adventure, typically involving some heinous debauchery he got up to one sweaty night in the French Quarter of New Orleans that would always leave me incredulous, mouth agape- always pleased by the resulting effect, he would laugh and laugh, before showing me the corresponding tattoo.
2. He would meet any obstacle we might stumble upon (be it frozen pipes, a power outage, or a fearsome rouge wolverine) with his trademark blend of wit, sass and sarcasm.
And lastly,
3. This was always a certainty-- There would be laughter. Lots and lots of laughter.
While I'm utterly devastated at our world having lost the bright light that was Brad... the only solace I seem to find remains in his wild stories, his countless travels to distant countries, trips that took him across oceans and up steep mountains. He lived his life on his terms and met every opportunity with vigor, bravery, and always his signature sarcasm. We should all be so lucky as to leave behind a legacy half as colorful: a passport full of stamps, worn out luggage, and stories that would leave a person blushing and astounded.
You will be much missed, Brad.
❤️