In Loving Memory of Lance Dee Brigman
June 22, 1946 – September 17, 2026
Lance Brigman, 80, of Longview, WA., passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family.
Born in Long Beach, California, to William and Myrna Brigman, Lance was the oldest of five children. From an early age, he developed a strong work ethic and a love of athletics that would stay with him throughout his life. He graduated from Mark Morris High School and Lower Columbia College before earning a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of Washington. He then married Susan Lapham, beginning a loving marriage that would span 57 years. Lance and Sue moved to Omaha, NE where he earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from Creighton University School of Medicine. After he completed his residency at Deaconess Hospital in Spokane, WA., he fulfilled his dream of returning to Longview to establish an independent family medical practice. Affectionately known as “Doc” to his patients, he devoted 42 years to caring for his community, welcoming babies into the world and tending to patients through every stage of life.
Lance excelled at a variety of sports throughout his life including running, swimming, skiing, golf, road and mountain biking. He competed in numerous triathlons including the Ironman Canada and also dominated many local road bike races, eventually competing nationally. Lance spent countless happy hours riding and building trails at Growlers Gulch in Castle Rock, capping off most rides socializing with a cold one at the bottom of the trail.
A quiet man, Lance was deeply curious and a life-long student of the world around us. He developed numerous interests including coin collecting, photography, astronomy, gardening, baking bread, reading, knitting, rock hunting and jewelry making. He loved to travel with his family, but also went on some epic solo treks.
Lance had many roles but his favorite times were with his family. He would light up when he was with his grandchildren. Lance could reliably be found at their sporting events, science fairs, recitals and school programs. No one cheered more or was happier to see them in all of their endeavors and no one was prouder when they achieved their goals. He taught them to persevere and work hard to achieve their dreams, reminding them always to embrace the next great adventure.
Lance was preceded in death by his parents. Bill and Myrna Brigman, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Don and Boo Lapham, his nephew, Justin Busch, and his youngest sister, Megan Brigman.
Lance is survived by his devoted wife, Sue, his beloved children, Julie Brigman, Kara Schierscher (Todd), and Corey Brigman; his cherished grandchildren, Claire Brigman, Adalie and Sadie Schierscher, and Daelen Brigman and his siblings; Kimberly Busch (Keith), Nicholas Brigman (Theresa), and Lisa Brigman, his sister-in-law Ann Briggs and many other extended family members and dear friends who will miss him deeply.
A private celebration of Lance’s life will be held at a later date.
