Brian Ellsworth Whitlock, 45, Formerly of Bethel, Passed Away in Sweden

Bethel, CT — Brian Ellsworth Whitlock, 45, passed away January 22, 2016 in Sweden surrounded by loving family shortly after being diagnosed with cancer. He leaves his devoted wife Anna Karin Strinnholm and beloved daughters Maya and Emelie.

Brian was born September 21, 1970, the son of Gilbert and Regina (Santuro) Whitlock of Bethel. He attended Bethel schools and graduated from Bethel High School in 1989. Brian received a degree in history from Western Connecticut State University after spending a year abroad in Amsterdam where he met his wife. He later received a Master's Degree in education from Sacred Heart University.

Brian was a well-liked and respected teacher and colleague at VRG High School in Stockholm where he taught history and English.

Sadly missed by siblings Regina (George Bachman), Gilbert, Mary-Jo (Michael Walsh) and Jennifer of Bethel. He leaves his nephews and nieces: Jonathan, Melanie (Regina); Jason, Ashley, Anthony (Gilbert); Zachary (Mary-Jo); and Avery (Anthony) as well as numerous aunts and cousins; and friends on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.

He loved cooking for family and friends, good food, music and wine, history, running and the outdoors. He combined his interests in running and history when he ran the 2,500th marathon in Athens, Greece.

A Mass in Brian's honor will be held June 25 at 9:30 at St. Mary's Church in Bethel. A reception will follow in the church hall. His ashes will be scattered in the Atlantic between his two homes.