Long-time RFI President/COO Brad Wilson passes away

SAN JOSE, Calif.—RFI, a leader in the integrated security and life safety solutions industry, is deeply saddened to announce the passing of its long-time President/COO Brad Wilson on Jan. 16, 2022.

Wilson was a member of the security industry for 40-plus years, spending the last 39 years of his career with RFI Enterprises, Inc.  He started as a technician and over the years served in numerous capacities from project management, system engineering, sales and operations and ultimately earned his position as President/COO.

In 1996, Wilson earned his CPP Certification and continued to stretch himself to stay on top of new technology. He was given the nickname “The Keeper of the Spark” years ago due to his unbounding love for the industry and his willingness to be a continual learner. Wilson had matured into the role of mentor to guide the next generation of security professionals to plant roots in the industry he spent his whole career contributing on so many levels.

“Brad often said he gathered his energy from people,” RFI CEO Dee Ann Harn told Security Systems News. “He loved going to industry events, sporting events, family events, and even Costco, where he loved the sport of dodging people and carts! He just loved being around people. God, in turn, used him to reflect the energy he gathered back to everyone he met. He was intentional when he provided positive encouragement and expressed genuine gratitude to those around him. He was a man of integrity, honesty, and compassion for others. He was a gift to all who knew him, and he will be greatly missed.”

Family was most important to Wilson. He met his wife of 36 years, Diana, at RFI. She was a drafter, and as a technician, he found every excuse to be in the office trying to woo her to go out with him. He finally won her heart and they married in 1985. From their marriage they had four kids and three grandchildren: Melissa and Chris Wyant, granddaughter Ava; Nicole Wilson; Brandon and Melissa Wilson, grandson Zayden, granddaughter Irie; and Matthew Wilson. Wilson is also survived by his three siblings - Sandy, Jack, and Pam - as well as nieces, nephews, and extended family. He also had a very special relationship with RFI’s founder, Larry Reece, and so many others within the RFI community.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to the American Liver Foundation in Wilson’s honor:  https://alfmad.org/honorandmemorial/support2/#BW2022