Brian W. Afton, burn brightly in the cosmic realms. He walked the walk and talked the talk

OLEAN — Brian W. Afton, of Olean, passed away Friday (July 25, 2025) in Buffalo, after a short illness, surrounded by his loving family.

Brian was born in Olean on April 19, 1945, at St. Francis Hospital, the son of William Edwin Afton and Jeanette Grover. On Sept. 15, 1985, in the Amity Masonic Temple in Buffalo, he married the love of his life, Betsy, who survives.

He graduated from Portville Central School in 1963, then earned a BS in mechanical engineering.

Brian worked for various businesses, including the Gouche Maps, Olean Finishing Machine, Dresser Rand, Rolls-Royce and the Yoga Betsy Yoga Center.

He was a member of the Rama Lodge and the Rosicrucian Order (AMORC).

Brian enjoyed the outdoors; he liked to skin dive, go hiking and practice meditation/yoga. He was also a photographer and author of various books on historical fantasy.

Brian is survived by his loving wife, Betsy; a daughter, Denise (Bob Torrey) Afton; two granddaughters, Mia (Larry Steward) Lineman and Olivia Lineman; and siblings, Pixie (John) Dufour and David (Christine) Vlamis; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, William and Jeanette.

A memorial service will be held at noon Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025, at the Olean Meditation Center, 2275 Dugan Road, Olean. A celebration of Brian’s Life will follow at the Center. Burial will be at the convenience of the family.

Memorials, if desired, may be made to the Olean Meditation Center or the Olean YMCA.

Arrangements are under the direction of Guenther Funeral Home, Inc., 1303 E. State St., Olean.

Online condolences may be expressed at guentherfh.com.