Brian Kivlan’s accomplishments were many. Born in the Riverdale section of the Bronx to Bernard and Mary Rose Kivlan, Brian was a graduate of Manhattan College. He was a medaled track and field athlete and the first New Yorker to run a sub 4 minute mile—an incredible achievement. An All-American athlete and nationally-ranked in the 1500 and the mile, Brian was a semi-finalist in the United Stated Olympic Trials in 1968. Quite simply, he embraced athleticism for the duration of his lifetime. Brian went on to teach at Trinity School on the Upper West Side of Manhattan for 42 years where he was a physical education teacher and coach. Lovingly referred to simply as Coach “Kiv,” Brian instilled in his students a love of athletics and a commitment to excellence. Later in life Brian could most often be found riding his bike through Central Park, taking bike tours of Italy and riding through the villages of Mallorca, Spain.
Outside of his athleticism, nothing brought Brian more joy than connecting with friends, family and watching the US Women’s National Soccer Team matches. Time spent with his grand daughter Ava Rose was most precious to him, as he took her to various parks in New York City, long walks on the Upper West Side which he called home and simply watching her play. She was the light of his life.
Brian is survived by his daughter Kerri, son-in-law Patrick McGlone, grand daughter Ava Rose, brothers Eugene (Maureen Kivlan) and Andrew. He was a beloved uncle, cousin, grand uncle, friend, coach, mentor and teacher to countless others.
Wake will be held on Tuesday, April 19th 2022 from 4-7 pm at Riverdale-on-Hudson Funeral Home, 6110 Riverdale Ave., Bronx NY. Funeral Mass 10 am Wednesday, April 20, 2022 at St Paul the Apostle Church: 602 McLean Avenue, Yonkers NY 10705. Interment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery.