Gary Edward Brett

Our Dad, Gary, had a strong work ethic and proudly worked over 40 years in the Forest Industry. His career began as a Mill Wright followed by a Supervisor, Planner and Purchaser for MacMillan Bloedel and Asset Disposal at Pacifica Papers. Dad’s former coworkers often comment on how nice he was to work with.

Dad taught us to believe in ourselves and work hard to reach our goals. He was a private pilot and enjoyed his 9 years with the Port Alberni Port Authority. After his children finished University, Dad obtained his Professional Purchasing Degree in 1995. He loved cars, golf, bowling, watching hockey, football, soccer and baseball. His siblings remember Dad taking them to Vancouver to watch their first sporting events. He loved travelling to watch training camps for the BC Lions and for his family’s sports and activities. Dad enjoyed cheering on the Alberni Valley Bulldogs and the Vancouver Canucks. A great family memory was when we went across Canada in a truck and camper to watch the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal.

Community involvement was important to Dad. He was the founding President of the A.V. Drag Racing Association. He also enjoyed volunteering including the BC Games, chaired the Entertainment Committee for the BC Seniors Games and Security for the Tall Ships. Together Dad and Mom were awarded Citizen of the Year in Port Alberni in 2001.

Gary was predeceased by his parents, Lois and Ted Brett, his wife of 55 years, Donna Brett, brother Mark Brett, sister Linda Drinkwater and family members Sebastian Thomas-Joe, Joanne Pearson and Michael Leclerc.

Gary is survived by daughter Stacey Manson (Brent), Jay (Paige Holmes), Roxy (Hobie Hedquist), and son Jon Brett (Tisha), Tyler and Casey. Of all his jobs and titles, he was most proud to be called Papa. He would ask you to hug your grandchildren and tell them you love them.

Gary was one of 7 children and get togethers were always a lot of fun. He is missed by his siblings and their families:

Pat Mcgregor (Derek), Darrin, Jess, Quintin, Marnie Bennie (Kevin Thompson), Ethan and Rayna. Dwight Brett (Barb), Mandi Bogie, Kenzie, Jenna (Brodie Macpherson), Kagan and Addison Rogers. Keith Brett (Dianne), Jennifer, John (Lily), Nicolas and Patrik Pezel, Jane Reumkens (Berry), Cash (Alanna Furness), Tessa and Brock (Stephanie Maitland) and Jeannette Brett, Mo Leclerc, Alex, Zoe and Dominic and Jim Drinkwater.

Dad is also missed by family: Darlene Reynolds (Larry), Anthony (Julie), Carson and Olivia, Julie Birlew (Brad), Sarah and Paige, Bob Bebluk (Norma), Courtney Wilkinson (Tim), Kylan and Katie and Kimberly Laurysen (Mike) and Benjamin.

No service by his wishes. Our family would like to acknowledge the wonderful care and kindness that the team at Echo Village provided.

Dad, your family and friends will miss you. You will always be in our hearts. We love you so much and know your kindness will live on in your grandchildren: Jay, Roxy, Tyler and Casey.

Donations in memory of Gary can be made directly to the Port Alberni Salvation Army