Bryan Paul Pieper

Bryan Pieper was born on June 23, 1981, in Salinas, California, to Kathy DeLaCruz and Dennis Pieper. He is survived by his loving mother and stepfather, Kathy and Richard DeLaCruz of Scotts Valley; his father and stepmother, Dennis and Mary Pieper of Chico; and his sisters, Serina Hughes, Shannan DeLaCruz, Denise Fehlman, and Dayna Davis. He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins who held a special place in his heart.  

At just ten years old, Bryan was diagnosed with Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) and underwent a bone marrow transplant on November 18, 1992. His donor, Dan Kuhn of Waverly, Iowa – a father of three daughters – gave Bryan the precious gift of life. Because of Dan’s generosity, Bryan was able to live 33 more years filled with love, laughter, and purpose. The family holds everlasting gratitude for this selfless act.  

Bryan was known for his quick wit, warm heart, and zest for life. He adored his bulldogs and flat-coated retrievers, and had a special bond with the family’s beloved African gray parrot. He also had an undeniable passion for BMW cars and believed speed limits were merely suggestions. Whether cruising the coast or enjoying a drive just for the fun of it, he found joy and freedom behind the wheel. He was also a devoted fan of the Raiders, Golden State Warriors, and Oakland Athletics.  

For 19 years, Bryan was part of the Sutter Health family, where he worked as the Practice Manager for Orthopedics and Podiatry. His dedication, kindness, and humor touched everyone he worked with – his coworkers became a second family.  

Th Celebration of Life will be held at Chaminade in Santa Cruz, immediately following the burial. The family chose November 18 for this special day to honor the anniversary of Bryan’s bone marrow transplant – a day that symbolizes the gift of life and resilience that defined his journey.  

He will be remembered always for his courage, humor, and the love he shared so freely with everyone fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed by his cherished animals and by all whose lives he touched along the way.