Brian Plankenhorn

Brian Eric Plankenhorn, a beloved husband, son, and brother, passed away on October 4, 2024, in Fort Worth, Texas, at the age of 57 from cardiovascular complications after a 20-year battle with cancer. He was born on February 1, 1967, in Ridgewood, New Jersey.Brian was devoted to his extended family. He is survived by his loving wife, Kelley Plankenhorn of Fort Worth; his father Frederick Plankenhorn of Irving; his brother Michael Plankenhorn of Fort Worth; his mother-in-law Susan Ketchmark of Dallas; his nieces and nephews Christian, Mackenzie, Adam and Grace Plankenhorn of Fort Worth; brother-in-law Chris Ketchmark(Dena) of Dallas; his nephews Michael Ketchmark(Isabelle) and Samuel Ketchmark(Sarah) of Dallas; aunt and uncle Christine and Joseph Tischer of Hagerstown, MD; cousin Tracy Tischer of Annapolis, MD; cousin Matt Tischer of Hagerstown, MD; aunt Alice Judd of Columbia, MD; cousin Stephen Judd of Columbia, MD; cousin Anna Judd of Fredericksburg, VA; cousin Tammy Judd of British Columbia, Canada; cousin Jessica Judd of Finksburg, MD; cousin Joshua Judd of Jessup, MD; uncle Harry Artley of Rogers, AR; cousins Matthew and Thomas Artley of Amarillo, TX; cousins Drew and Brandon Artley of Castle Rock, CO; cousin James Michael Berrigan of Rustburg, VA; cousins Cheryl Evans, Shawn Berrigan, and Kelly Danner of Allentown, PA; cousin Erin Berrigan of Walnutport, PA; cousin Jeff Berrigan of State College, PA; cousin Miriam Nagle of Furnace, PA; uncle Ralph Crouse of Renova, PA; and cousins Eddie Crouse and Marjorie Crouse of Chicago, IL. Brian is preceded in death by his brother David Plankenhorn; mother Judy Artley Plankenhorn; aunt Carol Artley; and aunt Betsy Artley Crouse. 

Brian grew up in Lubbock and graduated early from high school in 1985. After he moved to Dallas-Fort Worth, he worked in the hospitality industry while earning his associate’s degree and graduating as the Valedictorian. Brian then moved into the furniture sales industry and was quickly promoted to be an Sales executive. 

Brian’s hobbies included biking, cooking, scuba diving, skydiving, swimming, attending concerts, and traveling. An avid dog lover, his favorite breeds were Dobermans and German shepherds. His pursuit of these interests was paralleled by his loyalty to the Chicago Cubs, the only baseball team’s hat that he would ever wear. He will be particularly remembered for his resilient courage and positive attitude throughout his struggles managing his health. 

Brian's legacy of love, laughter, and dedication will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Brian’s name to Good Shepherd Rescue of Texas.