May 24th, 1943 - November 30th, 2023
After a short bout with cancer, Brian passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 30th. He will be deeply missed by his children Sarah (Jamie), Andrew (Gemma), partner Carolyn, brother Bruce (Susan), brother-in-law Graham, grandchildren Emma, Daniel, Ben and Tilly, and his best friend and constant companion Max. He will also be remembered by former spouses Susan and Sharon, former step-daughter Kristie, (predeceased by former step-son Jim), nieces and nephews, Allison (Rob), Janet (Eddie), Mike (Yannique) and Lisa, along with Carolyn’s family.
After growing up in Hamilton, Brian worked in forestry in northwestern Ontario, settling in Thunder Bay with his family. He enjoyed fishing and hunting and was a member of the Port Arthur Curling Club. He combined his love of the outdoors with his independent spirit and carpentry skills, building cottages at Graham Lake and Dog Lake in the 70’s and 80’s, and helping build the bunky at his sister Cathy’s place on Seagull Lake in the late 2000’s. He was also very proud of the work he did restoring the pavilion at Chippewa Park.
After meeting Carolyn he relocated to Elora where he spent the last 14 years immersing himself in the local community. His absence will be deeply felt by many including his clients at Gibby’s Renovations, the members of the Fergus Curling Club, where he actively participated in multiple leagues, held board positions, and was the go-to person for any repairs. Additionally, the Elora Community Swan Program, of which he served as co-coordinator, was an initiative particularly dear to his heart.
Brian's true joy in life was found in simple pleasures - tending to his vegetable garden, delving into the latest spy or mystery novel, conquering sudoku puzzles, grilling a great cut of meat from Brubachers on his wood smoker, spending time at Seagull Lake, caring for the Swans each winter, and his time spent at the curling club.
Brian was predeceased by his father Jim, brother Bob, mother Shirley, and sister Cathy. We are sure they are all sitting around a campfire in the eternal woods, singing songs and reminiscing about lives well-lived.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, December 9th from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm with words of remembrance at 3:00 pm at the Fergus Curling Club.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Elora Community Swan Program or the charity of your choice. https://gofund.me/35667747
Arrangements entrusted to Graham A Giddy Funeral Home
