Brian Martin Cahoon, 54, passed away Wednesday, June 8, 2022. Brian was born May 1,1968 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He is survived by his loving parents, Jackie (Jack) Lee Cahoon and Linda Todd Cahoon. Two brothers, Marlon L Cahoon (wife Tina Cahoon), Matthew T Cahoon, one sister, Jennifer L Cahoon Jones (husband Brent Jones) 5 nieces, Martina, Alana, Zoey, Shylin, and Sadie, two nephews, Brandon and William, a great niece, Julie and a great nephew, Landon.

At a mere six weeks of age, Brian was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and intellectual disability. His parents, with no hesitation, continued to love and nurture Brian for 29 years at home in their care. He attended grade school, middle school, and went all the way to becoming a graduate of Deep Creek High School in 1990. He later attended a day program at a vocational center, which acted as a workplace along with others who had similar disabilities.

Growing up, Brian enjoyed playing basketball, swimming, and his summer camp. Brian LOVED music! His favorite genre was the “Oldies”. Coming from a family of musicians, he loved our get togethers held almost every other weekend. Music was played, sung and danced to, along with bonfires and walks through the woods at our grandparents. Most of the family lived in the same neighborhood, so heading to grandma’s and grandpa’s house for good music and food was the norm. Our large family always included Brian.

Brian also loved his TV time…anything on “TV Land”- he loved! For those who knew Brian in the early years, knew he was famous for the Happy Days “thumbs up” iconic gesture from the Fonz, along with “HEYYYYYY!” He also liked watching wrestling and would laugh when the ref would get down and start the countdown. If there was any type of Telethon on, you could bet he was tuned in. We all know how much he loved his Flinstone, and would carry him everywhere. It was a mission for us to always be on the lookout for backup Flintstone dolls in case he lost it. I have to mention the time he was tossing it in the air and it got stuck in the tree, he went hysterical but with the help of the water hose, we got it down and he was all OK! Lol

Like anyone else, Brian eventually went on to leave the nest and started group home living. Up until then, he depended solely on his loving parents. With time, a couple of different homes and learning to adjust, Brian settled a mile away from his family, with “Independent Perspectives” where he resided for 12 years up until his death. The director, Yardley Butt and his wife, Peggy, along with his staff, cared for Brian and made his adult life as close to normal as possible. Brian’s roommates, Timmy, Dean and Gabe were also his best friends. They enjoyed outings, activities and everything in between, together just being “Best Buds!” He was known as “The boss” and when asked who it was, he would point to himself and say “MEEEE!” We would like to wholeheartedly extend a warm “Thank you” to Yardley, Peggy, and all the staff for the care and love he received in your hands.

Brian’s other family was a spiritual one. Coming from a family of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Brian attended all weekly meetings and many conventions while growing up. His favorite magazine to always have with him was the Watchtower. He couldn’t read but knew what it was and he was up to date with every issue. With the faith his family raised him in, we have the hope of seeing Brian again on a paradise earth soon to come. Our faith comforts us in knowing Brian will be resurrected back to life, along with other loved ones, to a life where he will no longer be sick as promised in Isaiah 35: 5,6 which states: (“At that time the eyes of the blind will be opened, the ears of the deaf will be unstopped, the lame will leap like a deer and the tongue of the speechless will shout for joy.”) We know Brian is in Jehovah God’s heart and memory and that he is no longer suffering with his ailments, nor having to face the strain of this present, imperfect world.

In closing, despite his hardships, battles and restrictions of not having a normal life like most of us and missing out on many things, he never let that cripple his soul. Under that disabled body, was the purest heart and soul you’d ever meet and he showed it! His kindness, love, humbleness, and humor was completely visible through his laugh and smile. He had the most beautiful green eyes, that even after all these years, never dulled.

May we all strive to have the heart, the good, and the attitude towards life as he did. No matter our situation, our disabilities or pain we carry, choose to find the best in ourselves and share it with others. We will continue to live with all the memories and lessons learned from him. We will treasure the time he was gifted to us until we see him again. Thank you all for the love and support given to our family during this hard time. Brian was truly loved by many, many people.

We hope you enjoy the slideshow we put together in honor of him. The link will have places for comments and stories you can share.