LETTER FROM DAD

On September 19, 1983 Bradley James Dillahunty was born the son of Suzan and James Dillahunty.  He was a Texan, as once born there, ever shall you be.

Brad was the last “Dillahunty” in our family.  As a grandson, he was accorded the spoils of a prince, but had the temperament and sweetness of a fresh spring morning.  In preschool years, he was constantly surrounded with love and encouragement.  He was at first shy, but developed a sharp sense of humor and maturity beyond his years.

As a young boy he always wanted to “have his say” in matters of importance in his life.  He attended The Mission School in San Juan Capistrano, except for his 6th grade adventure in Mexico, where he began his transition to becoming a man of the world.  As he matured. he often cited this experience as one of his biggest developmentally.  This began his ever expanding circle of friends of all types and interests.

At about 13 years, Brad became interested in music – specifically, the electric guitar.  He began to develop his “music friends” as his skills improved.  He attended summer guitar workshops on the East Coast and continued to make friends beyond his age group and California geography, all the while serenading or shredding his parents with higher and higher volume.  We constantly had his music in our home and hearts.

With growing confidence in himself, his competitive fire for athletics was stoked.  Football became his passion.  He played Pop Warner football, but at Santa Margarita Catholic High School he grew from a player to a leader on the field, scholar athlete, and eventually a captain of the team.  His “football family” included players, player families, and coaches. This chapter of his life we called the “glory days.”

The three musketeer family was changing.  But there was always the music.

Brad expanded his Texas friend- base in college at Austin, but returned to coach his high school alma mater in California the following year.  Glory days behind him, uncertain of his future, or what would fill this void in his life, he spread his wings and flew off into the darkness.  Always searching for his next adventure whether boarding, boxing, surfing, or working, he loved, partied, made mistakes, but persevered, learning the dignity of labor along the way.  And the music continued.

He emerged from the shadows into the sunshine as a man, an eagle soaring with dreams to fulfill.  He made commitments to himself about warm weather, travel, finishing college, and developed a spiritual connection through self study.  Recognizing music as the constant passion in his life, he decided to follow his heart.  His instrument collection expanded to accommodate multiple styles.  He was developing a stage voice and began to write.

On his last day, June 6, 2008, he awoke near the ocean and spent the day surfing.  It was warm and the sun was shining.  After a nap, he went to the studio to jam.  As the evening wore on, the band became more electric; this was the life!  He flashed his million dollar smile.

For Brad, it was the perfect day.

Brad: compassionate gentleman, musician, spirited loving son, family member, and friend.

We love you, Bradley.

Mom & Dad