Beloved son, grandson, husband, and father Kenneth “Justin” Brink of Fortuna passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on February 24, 2021 after a 3 ½ year battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s). He was 41.

Justin was born on December 17, 1979 in Hoopa to Tanya (Iiams) Wilmot and Ken Brink. He is survived by his wife Shawna; children Nekhia, Makenna, and Aislyn; parents Tanya (Greg) Wilmot and Ken (Karen) Brink; Brothers Jefferson (Joal) Brink, Jerry (Tiffany) Brink, and Robert (Andrea) Jackson; sister Tiffany (Tim) Reynolds; grandmothers Ellen Kerr and Patricia Bagley; and grandfather Gerald “Duane” Brink; He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews. He is preceded in death by his stepson Tyson Partee; his aunt Lavee (Brink) Nelson; his uncle Les Bagley; his grandfather Glen Bagley; and his great-grandmother Nellie Aubry.

Nicknamed “The Lawyer” by his grandma Pat, Justin had the gift of introspection – he always had questions and was always seeking answers. He loved a good debate. Justin was a man of character with a heart of gold as big as any.

As many can attest, Justin was a great all-around athlete, but football was his obsession. He played for McKinleyville High School, Eureka High School, and College of the Redwoods. He was a huge Pittsburgh Steelers fan. He was an avid golfer, and loved a good poker game anytime.

Justin was a proud member of the Karuk tribe; he grew up participating in traditional activities. He played “Sticks” and danced in the dances, he knew how to hunt and fish and above all, he had a deep respect his elders such that it cannot be put to words.

Justin’s number one passion in life was his girls. They brought him absolute joy - they were his heart. Justin showed us that good and true, honest and forthright, funny and intelligent men truly do exist. His passing has broken our hearts, and he will be sorely missed.

Justin’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Justin’s Hospice crew – especially his RN Scotty and SW Allison – we truly could not have done this without you.

A gathering celebrating Justin’s life will be held this summer when it is safe for everyone to attend. The date/time/place will be posted at a later date.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Justin Brink’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.