Mr. Roy George Brainerd

The son of Burnaby pioneers Lawrence and Violet Brainerd, Roy lived most of his life close to his birthplace, attending Douglas Road and Hugh M. Fraser schools before embarking on a career with Snap-on Tools at age 15. His work ethic and keen business sense saw him rise to the level of District Manager in Edmonton until retiring after more than 40 years with the company at age 56.

Retirement did not see Roy sit back and take it easy. Moving back to Burnaby, he worked for Evergreen Tours part time for 9 years, satisfying his love of travel and helping people at the same time. Meals on Wheels, Expo 86 and Gad-abouts benefitted from his energy as a volunteer and untold organizations were beneficiaries of his financial generosity. Perhaps his favourite was the Burnaby Village Carousel Restoration Project where he bought one of the horses and aptly named it Royal George.

Roy was a consummate tinkerer and could often be found putting his knowledge of tools to good use in his garage or basement workshop. He loved learning and trying new things, even mastering the computer at age 80. He enjoyed gardening and sharing his tomatoes, and going to garage sales, especially the free table!

Roy could strike up a conversation with anyone - he never met a stranger - at least not anyone who was a stranger for very long! He believed in hard work, doing something you love, family, saving for rainy day and giving back to the community.

Celebrating a life well lived are his wife of more than 71 years Carol, daughters Susan (Ralph) Dawson, Linda (Barry) Child, Jayne (Julian) Buchwald, 7 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, sister Pat White and many nieces and nephews.

Celebration of Life will be held in the Discovery Room at Burnaby Village, 6501 Deer Lake Avenue in Burnaby, on Saturday April 30th from 3:30 – 6:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a charity of your choice.