Master Electrician Noted for His Dry Humor

A beautiful and beloved soul, Brendan Joseph Higgins Cahill, died unexpectedly July 24, 2015, in Concord, where he was born, raised and lived. He left behind a loving family and many friends.

Brendan, 36, was a licensed master electrician and a master in many other realms, including fishing, rib-grilling and dry humor. He could figure out and fix almost any construction-related problem and prided himself on doing every job right. He worked for Scarponi Electric in Rochester and was experienced both in electronic controls and live electrical work performed without turning off the power. He also was remarkably insightful and helpful when asked for advice about personal problems. To many, he was a pillar of strength.

From early childhood, Brendan loved pushing limits, including as a skier, snowboarder, mountain biker and skydiver. He was constantly exploring the world around him while living by his own rules, one of which was “the less you say, the more you will be heard.”

He loved nature and hiking, and had a fascination with mining quartz crystals embedded in New Hampshire granite. Many of his friends and families were recipients of his granite gifts. He collected unusual objects and made his own, including beautiful walking sticks, wind chimes and cairns. The eclectic pieces he surrounded himself with reflected the beautiful intricacies of his soul.

Brendan was fiercely loyal to his friends and family. They knew him as a smart, deeply thoughtful man who meditated and loved M.C. Escher’s art, but also was a terrific prankster and storyteller able to find humor in any situation.

Brendan is survived by his mother, Kathy Cahill, sister Mariah Cahill and stepfather Joe Magruder, all of Concord; stepbrother Cale Magruder; and by many aunts, uncles, cousins and loving friends. At age eight, Brendan had just become big brother to Mariah when their father Stephen Cahill died suddenly. Brendan was his sister’s hero, providing her with protection, love and guidance.

Brendan’s life is not defined by his death. He lives on in the heart of every person who was touched by his best qualities, who learned from him, was helped or protected by him, or whose gratitude, respect and admiration he earned.

Calling hours at Waters Funeral Home, 50 S. Main St., Concord will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 31.
A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 1, at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 274 Pleasant St., Concord.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the City of Concord Planning Division designated for trail maintenance on Oak Hill, City of Concord Planning Division 41 Green Street, Concord, NH 03301.