Brandon Ian Shalkowski

Brandon Ian Shalkowski passed away March 31, 2025 after enduring a 13 year journey with advanced colon cancer. Brandon was the embodiment of resolve, positivity and faith in oneself when faced with even the most unfortunate and daunting challenge. He was a man of broad interest and knowledge with a unique ability to engage in anything from sports and pop culture to fine dining, cologne, and sneaker enthusiasm. There was never a lack of strong opinion on any topic; and he was a reliable source of both witful humor and critique. Brandon consistently pursued evolving athletic interests including marathon running, boxing, and golf, all with consuming commitment and regimented training. He was at his base a purely kind and giving man who wanted the best for everyone in his life; and had a gift to push anyone to strive for the peak of their abilities. There was no athletic performance, academic achievement, or professional stage that he thought was unreachable for those he loved. Brandon’s passion for life and drive to capture any opportunity presented was an inspiration and lesson on how to truly live for those around him.

Brandon was born in Redwood City, California and lived in the area until 1994 when he moved to Modesto, California, graduating from Thomas Downey Jr. High School in 1998. He returned to the Bay Area in 2002 and resided the majority of his adult life in Burlingame, California. One of his largest prides was being third generation Bay Area; and loyally supporting his 49ers, Giants, and Warriors. Brandon worked the majority of his career for his family’s landscape design company, Addlife; but found his true passion in coaching high school football. He was a dedicated coach of long storied and achieved programs at Palo Alto and Aragon High Schools; and was equally committed to the success of the team off the field. Brandon regularly encouraged players to utilize team sports as a stepping stone to life opportunity, as well as cultivate character growth and interests. His dedication to youth development led him to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in Child Development and Team Leadership from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst in 2012, and a Masters of Science in Recreation and Sports Administration from Western Kentucky University in 2016. 

One of Brandon’s most core attributes was his love for and dedication to his family. He was a devoted and supportive partner of nearly 20 years to Erica Sobel; sharing together many years and memories of broad interests, hobbies, and social events; as well as extensive exploration and adventure around the country. They shared a love of their indulged dog Brixton who was an always present companion on vacation, walks, errands, and even medical care. He is survived by his mother, Lorie Townsend, step father Theo Burger, step mother Laura Shalkowski, sister Meghan Kramer (Ryan), sister Sarah Pallante (Rocco), nephews Ellis Kramer and Rocco Pallante, and nieces Adelynn Kramer and Daphne Pallante. Brandon was predeceased by his father Jeffery Shalkowski, a tremendous loss he carried heavily; as well as his maternal grandparents Harold and Ardele Townsend; who were all foundational influences on the man he became. He is additionally survived by numerous uncles, aunts, and cousins he maintained close relationships with.

Brandon could not have achieved this legacy without the utmost dedication of his physicians, nurses, and greater oncology center care from UCSF. 

Memorial service will be held from 12pm-3pm on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at Devil’s Canyon Brewery, 935 Washington Street in San Carlos, CA.  Please RSVP via link below:  

https://CelebrateBrandon.rsvpify.com

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to UCSF or other cancer support and research entities, and youth sport driven charities that would be meaningful to Brandon’s memory.