Brian Edwin Lund, Salem Organist, Passes Away at 66

Longtime church organist and member of Salem Lutheran Church is remembered for his musical talents and dedication to his church community.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Brian Edwin Lund, a 66-year-old resident of Salem, Illinois, passed away on February 19, 2026 at Twin Willows Nursing Center. Lund was born in Calgary, Alberta, Canada on January 7, 1960 and was the son of the late Capt. Kenneth James Putt CHC USN Ret. and Carol Ann (Oslund) Putt. He is survived by his mother, as well as other family members. Lund was a longtime church organist, serving at various churches throughout his adult life, and was a member of the Salem Lutheran Church, where he found his church family.

Why it matters

Lund's passing marks the loss of a dedicated community member and talented musician who contributed greatly to his local church over many years. His life and service highlight the important role that organists and church musicians play in supporting religious congregations and providing spiritual enrichment through music.

The details

Lund began his career as a church organist at the age of 15 and went on to serve as an organist at various churches during his adult years. He was a member of the Salem Lutheran Church in Salem, Illinois, where he found his church family. A celebration of life service for Lund will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at the Salem Lutheran Church, with burial to follow at Allmon Cemetery in Salem.

  • Lund passed away on February 19, 2026 at the age of 66.
  • Lund's celebration of life service will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026.

The players

Brian Edwin Lund

A 66-year-old resident of Salem, Illinois who passed away on February 19, 2026. Lund was a longtime church organist who served at various churches throughout his adult life and was a member of the Salem Lutheran Church.

Kenneth James Putt

Lund's late father, who was a Captain in the U.S. Navy and a Lutheran pastor.

Carol Ann (Oslund) Putt

Lund's mother, who survives him.

Salem Lutheran Church

The church in Salem, Illinois where Lund was a member and found his church family.

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The takeaway

Lund's life and service as a dedicated church organist and member of the Salem Lutheran Church community underscores the important role that musicians and volunteers play in supporting religious congregations and providing spiritual enrichment through music.