Ian Bredice
1982 - 2023
We are devastated to announce the passing of Ian “Surly”
Bredice , 40 of Winston-Salem, NC. Ian left us on July 9, 2023
after a valiant battle against colorectal cancer. Ian was a gentle
soul and the kindest human being on the planet, he was
someone who never met a stranger. Ian was an amazing artist
with a zest for life, had an unending optimism and was a ray of
sunshine and inspiration to everyone that knew him. The
beloved only son of his mother Sherri Bredice Lang, he was
born in Marshall, Michigan on October 19, 1982. He attended and
graduated Harper Creek High School and went on to study art at
Albion College. He graduated with a Bachelors degree in Art
History/Studio Art in May of 2005.. The biggest passion in his life
besides family and friends was a career in art and a love for
music and he was an avid supporter of both. Ian also rescued
numerous special needs animals. Ian was preceded in death by
his Dad, Kirk Douglas Lang, his maternal grandfather Robert
Bredice and his paternal grandmother Mary Leahy. He was
married to Kelsey Stamper on October 31st, 2013 until December
2022, but still loved and remained best friends with her. He is
also mourned by his father Michael (Bonnie) Leahy, his brothers
Kade(Michelle) Lang, Kipp( Alicia) Lang, his grandmother
Sharon Bredice, the Stamper family ( Donna,Thad)many cousins,
aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews. Ian had a community of
friends that is just too large to list, (you all know who you are.).
A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, July 13th at the
Millennium Center in downtown Winston-Salem
from 6pm-9pm
. A celebration of life will be held in Michigan for friends and
family at a later TBD date.
The most wonderful child a mother could ask for. Always my advocate, defender and biggest fan.
Ian was the best brother in law to me, he was a real brother more than brother in law. He helped me many times and always had a huge hug to give me, almost breaking my bones a couple times with his squeeze. He was a unique, artist, a loving person. No one else like him. We had so many good times together. No amount of words can express how much I will miss him.
Ian was the kind of person who brought others together. He helped me find my “family” here in Winston upon moving back in 2010 and is a huge reason I decided to stay here for so long. This town is quieter without him. Sherri, family, and friends I am so sorry for this detrimental loss. Ian was such a bright light for this community and he will be sorely missed. I have been so lucky to have been a friend to Ian. May we all move forward with his positive outlook in mind.
I didn’t have the pleasure of knowing Ian, but as a longtime friend of the Stamper Family, I got to know him through FB posts. I was a bit envious of his “cool” job and artistic talent. Seemed like a wonderful way to earn one’s income.
My deepest condolences to his mother, his immediate and extended family.
Ian, rest in peace. ❤️
Ian was/is my first grandchild and as such I got to have a lot of time with him from birth to the last time I saw him a few weeks ago. He was such a kind talented guy. He never met a stranger and would sit and visit with someone he had just met for hours if that was available. I will never forget all the good times we had. I always looked forward to his phone calls as the lasted almost an hour each time and we covered a lot of subjects. I will miss him forever!! Rest in peace Ian. All my love always and forever.
Ian, I love you man. See you later space cowboy.
Ian always gave us smiles and laughs. We will miss you forever!
Ian was my nephew in law, being married to my niece Kelsey. I was only around him a few times, usually at Christmas or Thanksgiving. In just those few times together I could see his loving and humerous sides. He had a jovial soul and a heart of kindness. I will miss his presence at Christmas and Thanksgiving. I will miss his awesome talent. Resr in peace Ian.
From my first day at Whole Foods, Ian was the gentle, kind, hilarious man who befriended me and made me feel welcome. I am so deeply thankful to have known him for so many years and so devastated that such a constant in my life is gone. Love you my friend.
Ian like his mother was whitey funny absolutely a blast to be around. He is a Beautiful soul. Rest in Peace 🙏