Brian Duane Haugen

Brian entered this world May 5, 1966 in Minneapolis, MN, born to Marlin and Janet Haugen and welcomed by Big Brother Randy and Sister Debbie. He was two months premature weighing under 2lbs and spent his first couple of months in the hospital fighting for his life to stay in this world. He was raised in New Brighton, MN where he loved the 9th street neighborhood gatherings. He graduated from Irondale HS, continued his education at UND (obtaining bachelor’s degree and pilot’s license) and joined the North Dakota Air National Guard – Fargo.

His dream of flying planes led him to apply for a Pilot Training slot. Upon learning he was accepted, he was excited for the opportunity to advance his career and his future with Traci, so they got married August 16, 1991 in Las Vegas, NV. A month after their union, they moved to Columbus Air Force base in Columbus, MS where he began pilot training. After completing the program, they moved back to Minnesota where he transferred to the 934th Airlift Wing “Global Vikings” and retired after 23 years as a Major.

Brian and Traci built a house in Andover, MN in 2000 where they raised Taylor. Brian and Traci enjoyed hosting family get togethers for the holidays as well as having or attending neighborhood gatherings. With the numerous gatherings that were held, neighbors who started out as friends soon grew to become family.

Family meant so much to him after losing his father Marly (55) and sister Debbie (39) and he knew all too well how short, special and unfair life can be. He made sure that he was the best husband and father to “his girls” and Taylor was his pride and joy! Through her upbringing, he was there through every step of the way – from coaching her sports all the way through high school, to driving down to Mankato where she went to college even just to see her for a couple of hours, to hosting her birthday festivities on the boat the Taylor Rae with her friends – he was very proud of his title as a “Girl Dad”!

Brian was someone who had the ability to talk to anyone and make lifelong friends instantly. Those who met him could tell right away that he was a genuine, kind-hearted person with a big heart. He would help those in need and never was one to count favors. Above all he was loyal, caring, humble, loving and hard-working. He had a charm, quick wit, and sense of humor about him that made any conversation enjoyable, leaving a lasting impression on people. With friends from all different stages of life, he loved to catch up with both old and new - at his favorite restaurants, traveling, watching or attending sporting events, bonfires, casual social hours, or on his boat.

Every year, Brian would get excited for the upcoming boating season. He had a boat in Hudson, WI and you could find him at the marina every Thursday-Sunday visiting with friends, boating, relaxing, wearing bright colors, watching sunsets, and enjoying the marina life in general.

His career journey included working at Old Dutch Foods, 10N10 Travel, various insurance jobs and most recently as a Regional Account Executive for UnitedHealthcare.

While vacationing in Las Vegas to celebrate their 29th Wedding Anniversary (Aug. 16), he was hospitalized (8/15/20) with COVID. As ironic as it was when he came into this world fighting, he spent the last days on earth fighting for his life ultimately passing due to COVID complications. Brian was called to eternal resting place, earning his final pair of wings on September 8, 2020 at the young age of 54. His presence will be missed beyond words.

Preceded in death by his Grandparents, Father, Sister, Father-in-Law, Brother-in-law and cousins.

Brian is survived by his wife Traci, daughter Taylor, Mother Janet Haugen, Brother Randy Haugen, Nieces: Erin Haugen (Troy) - child Annika; Holly (Nick) Bolduc – daughters Alayla & Delilah; Niki Miller; Nephews: Brad (Abby) Haugen – children Owen & Mari; and Chad (Ashley) Edelbrock; Mother-in-law LeAnn Mitlyng, Brother-In-Law Brian Mitlyng, Sister-in-Law Heather Mitlyng; Nephews: Tony Mitlyng, Chase Meulners, Thomas Mitlyng and Niece: Allison Mitlyng. Also survived by many Aunts, Uncles, cousins and friends.

Due to the COVID pandemic, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Private family interment will be held.