Brian Coombs Memorial

Edward Brian Coombs passed peacefully into
the autumn night on November 11, 2006.

Brian was born on July 29, 1944, to Millie and Evan Coombs.  The devotion of his parents created a family tied together by both love and friendship.  A gathering at the Coombs’ home was always a celebration.  Evan and Millie preceded Brian in death.  Brian is survived by his brothers, Mickey (Julie) Coombs and Ken (Kathy) Coombs, and by his sister, Janice (William) Martinez .  Brian was “Uncle Bud” and “Uncle Adventure” to his many nieces and nephews.  He treasured each of them as his own.  To Casey, Sarah, Kim, Curtis, Kelly, Colby and Kristen: Know that Brian was proud of your accomplishments and he will always watch over you.

Brian believed in making the most out of every minute.  He found his home in Moab , Utah , and the Colorado River ran through his soul.  Brian joined Sidewinder River Expeditions in 1973.  He was a professional river guide for thirty-three years, becoming the legend illustrated by Nik Hougan that is, and will remain, “Fast Eddy.”  Brian spent the last decade with NAVTEC Expeditions working with his steadfast friend, John Williams, running tours on the Colorado River and in the Sea of Cortez .  While Brian ran many rivers, his “office” was Cataract Canyon . As best he could calculate, Brian ran that stretch of river over 300 times; a record that is unlikely, ever, to be equaled.  Brian was an accomplished cook, winning the river guides’ dutch oven cook-off years in a row - and  was known as “Grandma” for his fastidious kitchen habits.  He was skilled in outdoor emergency medicine and ran more river rescues than can be cataloged.  Brian’s extraordinary talent will not be lost.  He took great satisfaction in teaching young river guides in the ways of the water and the value of a good campfire song.  With that, Brian and his voice will live, forever, on the  river.

CFI is accepting contributions in Brian's name for our student river scholarships.