James Leonard Brisnehan

James Leonard Brisnehan, age 86, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully with his family by his side, on January 23, 2026 at Sandalwood Care Center in Wheat Ridge, Colorado.

James “Jim” was born on April 14, 1939, to the late Charles Brisnehan and Eunice (Karns) Brisnehan. The youngest of five children, Alice (Brachle), Mary (Coursey), Ray, and Loretta (Dunlap).

He attended Holy Family Grade School and High School, in North Denver. After graduation (Class of 1957), he became a mail carrier and attended Regis College, part-time.

He later received a Masters degree in Special Education from the University of Northern Colorado. Jim spent his career teaching visually impaired students as an itinerant teacher, traveling extensively throughout the Jefferson County School District. He was always referred to as “Mr. B” by his students. After he retired, Jim taught future educators at UNC in the art of teaching Orientation Mobility.

Jim and his wife Kathy (Callahan) both grew up near Holy Family Catholic Church and were married there, as well on June 9th, 1962. They bought a house nearby on 45th & Quitman where they were blessed with five children. They eventually found their way north to Arvada, around 64th & Perry where they shared nearly, 50 years of memories!

Jim is survived by his loving wife Kathy; children Joe, Jim(Louise), Colleen, John and Charleen (Griffin) Wetzstein; precious grandchildren, James, Adam, Ryan(wife Abby), Lizzie, Johnny and Jake; one, precious great-granddaughter Pia.

Jim and Kathy spent countless hours volunteering for the soup & sandwich line ministry at St. Elizabeth’s in downtown Denver. Through this ministry, they set an example which inspired family and friends to join in, as well. Several grandkids committed to volunteering every Tuesday during the summers for years, growing in relationship with their grandparents!

The services will be held Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at Holy Family Catholic Church, 4346 Utica St., Denver: Rosary at 9:20am, followed by Funeral Mass at 10am. Reception immediately following the Mass in the Holy Family Parish Center. Interment 1pm, Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Please visit horancares.com to share memories and condolences with the Brisnehan Family.