October 24, 2025 – West Bend, Wi – Former West Bend Fire Chief Brian R. Mayer, 83, of Jackson, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 9, 2025. He was born on February 11, 1942, in Port Washington to Clem and Irene (née Griesmer) Mayer.
On August 28, 1971, Brian was united in marriage to Eileen M. Roeber at Holy Angels Catholic Church in West Bend. They shared 41 years together before Eileen’s passing on October 7, 2012.
After graduating from high school, Brian began his career working alongside his father as an insurance agent. His passion for service led him to volunteer with the Jackson Fire Department, which inspired him to make firefighting his career. Brian’s dedication and leadership guided him through a long career with the West Bend Fire Department, where he rose through the ranks to serve as Fire Chief from 1979 until his retirement in 1995.
Throughout his career, Brian was deeply involved in advancing the fire service in Wisconsin. He was a member and past president of the Wisconsin State Fire Chiefs Association and played a key role in training and mentoring firefighters across the state. He was also a proud member of the West Bend Masonic Lodge #138 and the Tripoli Shriners of Milwaukee.
Outside of his professional life, Brian had many passions. Among them, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, shooting trap, and collecting anything he thought could be valuable, including coins and Corvettes. He was never one to follow the crowd and briefly owning an elephant is just one example.
Brian is survived by his son Shawn, for whom he was a devoted caregiver for many years, as well as by his nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clem and Irene; his wife, Eileen; and his brother, Michael.
A memorial service will be held Friday, October 24, 2025, at 4 p.m. at the Schmidt Funeral Home in West Bend with Deacon Mark Jansen officiating. The family will greet visitors on Friday from 2 p.m. until 3:45 p.m. Inurnment will take place next to Eileen in Washington County Memorial Park.
The Schmidt Funeral Home in West Bend is serving the family. If you would like to leave a message of comfort and condolence please visit www.schmidtfuneralhome.com
