Brian James Rakip

Brian James Rakip, 50, of Shirley, Massachusetts, and recently of Norfolk, VA, passed away unexpectedly due to an accident on April 12, 2026. 

Born on November 11, 1975, in Concord, MA, Brian was the beloved son of Nancy (Shea) and the late Robert Rakip Jr. A devoted father to his son Sean, his baby girl, and his beloved dog, Belle. Brian also leaves behind his mother Nancy, his brother Jason, his wife Sarah, his brother Scott and his wife Jessica, Sean’s mother Christine, as well as many nieces and nephews and a large extended family.

Brian graduated from Notre Dame Prep High School in Fitchburg in 1994 and then briefly attended Wheaton College. He began his career in sales at Gervais Ford, and then from there was the heart that kept the Nashoba Club, his family’s restaurant, running for many years, where he was extremely proud of continuing his family’s legacy. More recently, he was employed with Cooledge Lighting as a Business Development Manager, and also had a part-time job working in guest services at Scope Arena in Norfolk, Virginia, where he loved connecting with guests. He loved to call his son and talk his ear off about his accomplishments and interactions at work.

Brain was always involved in sports from an early age and had a lifelong devotion to Boston sports teams. Brian's love of sports was cemented when he became a father, coaching Sean’s baseball teams throughout the years. Together, they were working towards a goal of visiting every MLB stadium in the country.

Throughout his life, Brian was known for his sharp wit and sense of humor. His sarcastic yet loving nature made it impossible for people to forget him. Brian’s legacy is one of laughter, love, and strength. He was loved by all who crossed paths with him and will be remembered for his unwavering loyalty to friends and family alike.

In Brian’s honor, we're throwing the kind of celebration he would have loved. The family invites everyone to join them on Sunday, May 3, 2026, from 1:00 to 5:00 pm at the Bull Run Restaurant, Shirley, Massachusetts. In true Brian spirit, we invite you to dress casually, including your favorite sports apparel, or even Brian’s classic year-round attire: a hoodie, shorts, and a baseball cap. 

Donations in Brian’s name can be made to:

Why Me & Sherry’s House

1152 Pleasant St., Worcester, MA., 01602

https://whyme.org/get-involved/donate/

Arrangements under the care of the Badger Funeral Home, 347 King St., Littleton, MA. 978-486-3709, www.badgerfuneral.com.