Brian passed away in Hospice on Oct.23/23 surrounded by family. He had many health issues over the past 11 months, but succumbed to pneumonia.
He is survived by his wife Sandi, daughter Deb (Jeff), son Mike (Melinda), step-daughter Brenda (Andrew), step-son Bob. Grandson Zach, step-grandsons Nathan, Stephen and Col. And the love of his life, granddaughter Tian. Also survived by brother Bob (Pat), nieces; special extended family Ken&Irene and families, as well as many friends.
Brian worked in mining in many locations in Ontario and BC. His last job was as Shipping Manager at Weyerhaeuser Sawmill, where he made many good friends. Several of his employees said Brian was the best boss ever. They had mutual trust and respect for each other. He also said Jim was the best boss he ever had!
Brian was a huge sports enthusiast whether playing or as a fan. He loved hockey, golf, curling and made many friends playing each sport. He also coached Minor Hockey for several years. He and Sandi travelled to many hockey games to watch Zach, Tian and Col play. To soccer to watch Tian & great nieces Scotia and Piper.
Brian’s greatest passion was his motorcycle. He made two solo trips to Timmins, Ontario to visit his elderly aunt Mickey and Uncle Cliffy. It was a very sad day when he couldn’t ride anymore due to health issues.
Brian was happiest when with family and friends, even though he’d ask “when are you leaving?” just after family arrived! Or “you should get going now” shortly after a visit. It became a standard joke.
Next to family and friends, he loved hiking with Sandi with either of their two beautiful Springer Spaniels, Sally and Sage. They will be reunited now.
Brian’s request was for no public service. A family get together in the Spring /24 to disperses ashes in his chosen spot.
In Brian’s memory, donations to Hospice @ 72 Whiteshield Crescent South, Kamloops would be gratefully accepted.
Brian was a good man. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Rest now dear Brian.
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Bill/Luella Cousins
Brian was like a member of our family. When things were down, such as the year of the big strike, he showed up as Santa Claus and saved Christmas. He would pop in whenever he went past the house and would always ask after our family including our daughter and grandkids. He always had a smile and would always razz Bill about the time our daughter “beat him up” with her kung fu moves. He was the best friend you could ask for and was always there when we needed him. Whatever, or whoever was important to Brian, was important to us. We will miss him but realize he is in a better place. He will always be remembered fondly.
Sandi
Thank Luella & Bill. Special friends indeed.
Melodee Patterson
Brian was truly a beautiful person. He was one of the good ones, kind, genuine and sincere. He was full of energy and enthusiasm in everything he did and in everything family did. Talented , adventurous and patient he always had a good story to share. Life isn’t about the final destination it’s about the journey. Rest in peace .
Sandi Whitehead
Thanks for that Melodee. You also had a special place in his heart.
Judy Gibson
Well Brian, my neighbour and friend I will continue to miss our friendly chats and fun ‘barbs’ we exchanged on our meetings. In your memory as well I will cherish the Stellar Jays carvings you did for me as well as the many ‘handy’ devices you manufactured to make my garden more attractive and easier to handle. Of course
I will miss our winter EARLY (6:15) morning get togethers clearing the snow where we woke up all the neighbours with our laughs and conversation……but that was after you had already done umpteen driveways. You were one of a kind, an absolute gem.
I cherish our friendship.
Sandi and family my deep and most sincere condolences. XOXO
Sandi
Thanks Judy! Yes, we’ll see what happens this winter if we get lots of snow, since two of the neighbourhood “snow angels” are gone.
Mike & Bev Munro
We’ll always remember the fun times we had curling with you both.
Brian was a positive & upbeat member of the team.
May the love & support of family comfort you at this time.
With our love & sympathy.