It is with great sadness that Brian's family share his sudden, unexpected passing at the age of 80. Brian passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 30th, 2021 at Scarborough Centenary Hospital after watching his beloved Toronto Maple Leafs play the 6th game of the Montreal playoff series. Brian was born and raised in Eganville, Ontario. Devoted husband of almost 56 years to Bonnie (nee Brittle). Son of the late Lawrence and Doris (nee Biesenthal); brother of Darwin; cherished father to Glenn (Shawna) and Corinna (James); adored Grampa/Poppa to Maxwell, Avery and Kayleigh. Brian will be sadly missed by his nieces, Kelly (Gary) and Tracie and his numerous relatives, friends and past co-workers.
Brian lived and loved life to the fullest; always with a joke and a smile on his face and was kind to everyone he met. He volunteered with the Eganville Fire Department and was a retired East York/Toronto Firefighter #133 for 30+ years. Family was Brian’s first priority. He enjoyed family gatherings immensely. Brian’s children were his pride and joy. He was involved in everything they did growing up from sports, helping with school projects and driving them to their summer jobs in Kearney, Ontario. He treasured his grandchildren; always baking and creating care packages for them with new snacks, comics, things to colour and pictures.
Brian was an enthusiastic outdoorsman going on many canoe trips with family and friends. He loved spending time with his family at the cottage on Baptiste Lake and volunteered his time on the Baptiste Lake Association. He was also a leader with Scouts Canada.
Brian thought wood was remarkable; he was an avid woodworker who had a vision for every piece his hands touched. He created the name ‘Klahanie Creations’, as his business logo. Klahanie means the Great Outdoors, which brought him great joy. He loved his birds, especially loons, spending endless hours carving them. Brian used to be an active man; biking, rollerblading, skating, kayaking, and water skiing.
Brian was an extraordinary handyman; he could fix or make you anything you asked for. He was the best at keeping in touch with his family and friends through letters, emails and phone calls. During his day, Brian enjoyed listening to CBC radio and catching up on the news in the Eganville Leader.
Kind was your nature,
true were your ways,
we will treasure your memory
for the rest of our days.
We love you Brian/Dad/Grampa/Poppa. We will miss you always. Rest in peace.
Brian’s message to his family and friends…
“Fill not your heart with pain and sorrow,
but remember me in every tomorrow.
Remember the joy, the laughter, the smiles,
I’ve only gone to rest a little while.
Although my leaving causes pain and grief,
my going has eased my hurt and given me relief.
So dry your eyes and remember me not as I am now, but as I used to be.
Because I will remember you all and look on with a smile, understand in your hearts,
I’ve only gone to rest a little while”.
Due to restrictions surrounding COVID-19, a private family visitation was held Wednesday, June 2nd. Brian has chosen cremation and has gone to fight his last fire.
Family and friends will gather to celebrate Brian’s life at a later date. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made in Brian’s memory to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or a charity of choice.
Memories and condolences can be shared below…..
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