Brent James Gaul

Brent James (BJ) Gaul passed away on February 24, 2021 in Las Vegas due to injuries suffered in a motorcycle accident in Northern Arizona. BJ was born in Chicago, Illinois on August 1, 1942 and joined the Navy immediately after high school. BJ proudly served in the Navy for six years as a Cryptologic Technician and performed a wide range of tasks in support of national intelligence gathering efforts earning numerous awards and commendations. After his honorable discharge he attended West Valley College (AA) and San Jose State where he graduated with his BA degree in Psychology in 1969.

BJ had a variety of careers over his lifetime from computer operations manager, to dog kennel owner, to various sales positions as well as being an ordained minister bringing together many friends in marriage. After eight years together he married his best friend Joanna on April Fool’s Day 1990. He and Joanna traveled to all 50 states as well as six major Canadain provinces on a motorcycle. Together they traveled to many Mexican cities on over 60 trips. BJ and Joanna lived in Snohomish, WA until relocating to Apache Junction, AZ in 2009.

BJ had a kind heart, a great laugh, and a wonderful sense of humor. He was active in the American Legion and was a Patriot Guard Rider. He was an avid reader and was a friend to so many.  

BJ is survived by his siblings Carol (Jerry), Nancy, Mike (Leslie), Cris (Tracey), Kathie, and MaryLee (Bob) as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Joanna (Philbin) Gaul and his parents Charles and Patricia (Pat) Brown.

His Memorial Service was held March 25, 2021 at the American Legion, Post 27, in Apache Junction, AZ.