 I am so sorry to be writing this late as I have lost touch with a lot of the critical care community but I am extremely sad to hear of the passing of Brian .

 I knew him mainly as a colleague and researcher when we would get together at the international Brussels intensive care meeting .  Others have said it better than me but he was beyond incredibly intelligent and beyond incredibly witty.   I could spend two hours chatting with him at a reception and dinner and not be bored for one second .  That’s pretty remarkable when you think of it .

 I remember when Brian asked me to write an editorial for a publication in a prominent journal and his very crisp incisive feedback on my writing that made the editorial stronger clearer and more present .


 My heart goes out to his family,  many close friends and colleagues who knew him better than me . May he  truly rest in peace having  left an incredible legacy here !

Being retired I just discovered today the terrible news… This let me without words, with inside the brain all the great times we spent together, discussing science, society, Ireland, rugby drinking the best beer… I miss my younger friend colleague, so creative, productive, energetic and kind… Even I know I will meet him again in another world, I preferred to do it in the present one.
With my deep friendship and complicity.

I send my deepest condolences to Brian's family.  He was an incredible Physician, a real mentor, and a blessing to all who had the privilege to meet him.  I bow with respect to this phenomenal person.  God Bless. 
Dr. Redstone

Am so very saddened to hear of Brian's passing ...what a loss for so many.  So many happy memories working with Brian at Toronto General Opersting Room - we were the Irish connection..and many times I was asked to interpret...not only for Brian's soft voice but his Irish wit.
Daire and Afric may all the wonderful stories of your Dad give you strength at this very sad time.
Rest in peace dear Brian  - slan.



I had the privilege of working with Dr Kavanagh as a trainee at SickKids. He was an inspiring mentor. He was not only brilliant but also compassionate, kind and humble. He was exceptionally caring  and treated his patients in a way that was admirable. 
I was deeply saddened to hear the news that he had passed away.  My sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. 



D r Brian rKavanagh  was one of the medical team who saved the life of my nephew . He was one of those angels who will always be in our hearts  forever.  
You left this world but you will never be forgoten.  Prayers and thoughts are with  his family, friends and colleagues at Sickkids critical care unit. May peace be with you forever.
For  all my nephew family 👏

To Brian’s family - 
I remember Brian from one great year in my life - Pre-Med in University College Dublin. It was an exciting time for all of us as we entered the adult world and made new friends from all over the country. Brian quickly became one of my best friends, and I’ll always remember his warmth and kindness and intelligence ... and his love of the uileann pipes. I lost touch with Brian as I dropped out of that class after that one year, and we went our separate ways (I became an accountant instead!). 
I still listen to Andy Irvine and Paul Brady regularly on Spotify - music introduced to me by Brian. I fondly remember first hearing that music on vinyl in his parents’ house in Clonskeagh. Every time I hear that music, I think of my old friend. 

Rest In Peace, dear Brian 

Paul Madden
Sydney, Australia 

I am certain I speak for countless families when I say 
Dr. Brian Kavanagh will always have a special place in our hearts.
He helped direct the PICU care our daughter received after lung transplant. I can still see the  joyful reflection upon his face when he saw her dribbling a soccer ball on 6A some weeks later.
To his own family and loved ones we send our thoughts and prayers.
Paul and Jeanne Sutherland

My heartfelt condolences to Brian's family -- what a tragic loss and far too soon.  Brian was so committed to child health and to research excellence, and was a delight to work with: quick witted, smart, warm, and a trusted colleague for almost 20 years.  From ably chairing a grants committee for SickKids Foundation for years,  to his leadership within both SickKids RI and at U of T,  to contributing to SickKids' international research capacity building efforts in Qatar, it was always a pleasure working with him.   He will be sorely missed.

Very sorry to hear this sad news. Our thoughts are with Brian's family, especially his daughters Daire and Aifric, at this terribly difficult time. 

Much love, 
Marla, Allen, Moriah and Dustin Sokolowski.

Dear Kavanagh family,

My deepest condolences on the passing of Brian. I saw the notice in the UofT Bulletin.

I only met Dr. Kavanagh twice -- once in the St Lawrence Market one Saturday morning a few months ago, and once at The Faculty Club -- with him looking down on me as I awoke from a fainting incident at a Provostial event in 2007. He was one of the first people I saw  as I looked up from the floor, and he stayed with me through the time waiting for the ambulance to ensure I was fine. I will always be grateful for his kindness and thoughtful care during this thankfully minor incident. My deepest sympathies to you all.

I knew Brian as a family friend, neighbour, storyteller, committed dad, embracer of life's riches and a fiercely dedicated explorer of the deepest questions life asks us to confront.  In his words, his music, his work, his way of being, he quite simply made us all feel better about living.  

With kids playing outside on a summer evening,  relishing our shared Christmas eves, during rich evenings of music--every time we met, I'd feel this little lift in my heart, this 'Ah', because there's something there that's brighter or lighter,  (and not far underneath, something darker and more mysterious).  But his intelligence and humour always showed us something beautiful or better.  For all his accomplishments, he never gave others the feeling of 'why am I so ordinary?'  Just the opposite, we felt glad.  His presence always made me better, because somehow before that I hadn't realised or I'd forgotten human beings could shine so.

Its a really hard loss.  But hoping that the memories of this extraordinary man will inspire us all to be our best selves.  Extending deep, condolences  - especially to his cherished daughters Daire and Aifric, his close friends and extended family near and far. 

 Sunt lacrimae rerum

Fond memories are what I have to remember one of the most brilliant person I ever met in my life, who departed too early.  

For many years, I have been going to medical conventions that Brian attended to specifically listen to his talks and learn his ground-breaking discoveries.  No other scientist in critical care medicine has ever been able to provide suggestions and recommendations in the way Brian did.  

He was always keen to shake hands with everybody, from the youngest doctor to the most senior scientist and discuss latest discoveries always with his characteristic optimism. It will be so difficult to not meet him anymore. 

He created a strong legacy who will remember him forever. I will remember him forever.

My most heartfelt condolence to Brian's family and closest relatives, may you find comfort during these difficult days

Goodbye Brian, We will all miss you 

Our dear Brian; we're all better for knowing you. It is said a lot how brilliant you were as a clinician, as a teacher, as a researcher. You were all of those and yet for those who were fortunate to know you-you were someone few brilliant clinicians, teachers, researchers are: one could always count on you; one could always come to you with his/her problems, work-related or personal, knowing you had his/her best interest at heart.  You 
 were always generous without default. If you saw one good thing in a trainee, you magnified it a hundred times and told everyone about it. Through the years, your genuine, selfless interest in others and their advancement in their lives and carriers turned you into a mentor-friend-brother to many of those trainees who have been blessed to have been taught by you.
Dear Brian, your intelligence was enormous; your wit and sense of humor unforgettable but if I want to remember you with one word, that is your "integrity". 
Dearest Brian, we're all diminished by losing you, yet we're all better for knowing you.  There are no words or condolences that could reduce the pain. You're gone far too early but you lived an authentic life sir; you exemplified professionalism for your trainees by your integrity and truthfulness. How could we thank you enough, Dr. Kavanagh?

Hadi Mohseni
Former fellow, forever in your debt.

In the more than 10 years I have known Brian, he has always been gentle, smart and attentive. His interest in others, his dedications to patients and his international leadership has and will be a important example in the rest of my career. Thank you Brian. My deepest sympathy for his family and loved ones, we will miss him profoundly

Brian was one of the first staff people I worked with when I came to MSICU at Toronto General Hospital as a new faculty in Critical Care in 1997. He was gracious, patient and very gentle in his treatment of me as I made the transition from research fellow to new staff. I was a new mother and felt very vulnerable and found the transition challenging. I always felt grateful for his kind and respectful encouragement.
Over the years, as so many others have described, he became an extraordinary scholar, expert clinician and teacher, but what always  impressed me the most was his spirit of generosity. He gave so freely of his precious time and expertise. He nurtured so many and also worked tirelessly to promote those he felt to be meritorious so that they would be appropriately recognized. This was an extraordinary legacy.
My husband and I send our very sincere condolences to his extended family and friends at this most difficult time.

Margaret Herridge and Robert Stewart

I was fortunate to learn from Brian as a Paediatric trainee, but even more fortunate that he was on service when my own son landed up in the PICU last year. I will be forever grateful for his kindness, humility and  exceptional care. My sincere condolences to his friends and family at this difficult time. 

My deepest condolences to all the team, friends and family. I’ll always remember Brian for his brilliant mind, peculiar sense of humor and his great heart. He is someone I’ll always admire, as a person and as a physician. When I teach in Brazil I try to remember how he made physiology make sense in our minds and use it as inspiration. He will always be remembered. 

A generous friend I never understood but will miss terribly. Brian's contributions to the science of intensive care medicine and his fierce challenge of group think will be poorly missed. So glad I could share some time and my home with him.

Brian’s passing is such a sad and tragic loss to all of us whose life he touched for the better in so many ways. He was a dear friend and I will miss him terribly. I was lucky to be one of Brian’s first research fellows, and I worked closely with him as a collaborator and a colleague in the intervening years. Like many of his ‘alumni’ around the globe, Brian had a huge and very positive influence on my career and my life.
Brian was a thought leader who was passionate about advancing critical care medicine and anaesthesia, and he was a brilliantly insightful scientist who did ground breaking research. While chair of the U of T department of Anesthesia, he transformed it one of the best departments in the world, while innovatively laying the foundations for ongoing growth and development. Brian was a mentor and friend to many within our specialties who looked to him for wisdom and advice. He was especially generous with his time, would do anything to help. Brian would stop at nothing to do the right thing irrespective of any cost to him. 
A true renaissance man, Brian was such great fun to be around! A wonderfully gifted uilleann pipe player, a poet and a lover of good conversation, he had a dry sense of humour and a wry take on life. My thoughts are with his family, especially his daughters Daire and Aifric, at this terribly difficult time. Brian’s untimely death will leave a huge hole in many lives. It is up to the many of us whose life he had such a huge influence on to continue his legacy, and to remember him.

John Laffey
Galway, Ireland.

Briseida and Family, I add my voice to the thousands whose lives were touched by Brian and who  grieve the untimely loss of an extraordinary individual - father, partner, teacher, mentor, musician, poet, researcher, leader, friend and supreme clinician.  
His memorial service  was a fitting tribute to a life well lived.
Thinking of you,
Liz Harvey

Brian's passing was very sad news. Brian did his Critical Care fellowship with us at Stanford in 1993-4. I truly enjoyed his wit and ability to think outside the box.  His subsequent career success was no surprise to any of us.  We were honored to have him return to give the Rosenthal CCM lecture in 2009.  One of the greatest kindnesses in life is to remember those who have died.  He will be remembered.   My sincere condolences to his family. 

I am incredibly grateful to Dr Kavanagh for his thoughtful mentorship and dedication to mould my pursuit of academic anesthesiology. His kindness, generosity and spirit indisputably shaped the Department of Anesthesia at the University of Toronto. He will be greatly missed. My sincerest condolences to family, friends, colleagues and the countless lives he has touched.

I was so sorry to hear about Brian’s passing. I knew him as a medical intern when he was an SHO in St Vincent’s Hospital in Dublin. He was clever and funny  and we became good friends.  I met up with him at the ATS in Toronto a few years ago and always have fond memories of his dry irreverent good humor.  Ar  dheis Dé go raibh a hanam. 
Vera Keatings 
Ireland 


Brian was a brilliant teacher and outstanding clinician who inspired so many of us who had the good fortune of working with him. Truly leading by example and refreshingly honest, he had a way of making the most complex things comprehensible. Above all, he was kind, generous and always approachable. I will never forget how he would blush (actually turn red!) when he received compliments, so humble despite his numerous achievements. Thank you Brian for shaping my career as paediatric intensivist and touching all our lives. 

My deepest sympathies to his loved ones and the extended Sickkids family, with whom his legacy undoubtedly lives on. 

Anu Menon
Singapore 

I first met Brian when I was a hapless medical student in the operating room at Toronto General and he was the anesthetist. Almost 25 years later, I still remember the wit and kindness he showed that day. 

More recently Brian would take the time to critique my grants and foster my career - even though I wasn't even in his Department.

Brian was brilliant and generous. My sincere condolences to his family.





It was sad to hear of the passing of Dr.Kavanagh . I remember many times over the years transferring care to him of critically ill children in the PICU. He was always professional and willing to teach. 
My condolences to his family and 
co-workers . The paediatric medicine world has lost a real champion.

Claude Muir
Critical Care Paramedic
Toronto Paramedic Services 

Dr. Kavanagh was a great mentor for us, and I learn a lot from him as a dedicated researcher and a compassionate clinician. 
He was always very kind and gentle to us. I never forget a moment to spend with him.
My deepest condolences to his family, colleagues and friends.


Even before I started my fellowship at Sick Kids in 2016, I had heard fantastic things about Brian from my mentors in India. But, none of what I had heard matched up to what I learnt about him and from him during the last 3 years. Just observing him in action was sufficient to inspire, elevate and teach trainees like me. 
 
Brian was a gem of a human being - a master clinician at the bedside, a tough taskmaster in ensuring that the child received the best care, a caring mentor genuinely interested in the trainee's growth, a honest leader who would mince no words speaking from his heart and a thorough team player who always gave credit to the people working with him, many times more credit than we deserved. 

I was lucky for him to have developed a keen interest in my professional growth and would often pull me in to his room for some insightful feedback. After every such feedback session, if you could call it that ;) the feedback did not last more than a minute, I would wonder about how much careful observation and thought had gone into what Brian had said. 

Brian has been and will continue to be an inspiration for all of us who were lucky enough to know him. His work ethic will continue to light our paths. His unwavering dedication to patient care and high-quality research would remain etched in my heart. 

Brian was one of two people responsible for bringing me to SickKids and Toronto. We shared a lot, both of us physicians away from home with our innate Irishness and occasional contrariness. Brian gave me more than I could ever have repaid; he taught and developed me by his own example, he gave me a professional excellence and personal devotion to admire and aspire toward. Brian was there for me as a physician, teacher and leader, and he did not shirk from telling me uncomfortable truths when I most needed to hear them in order to evolve. He would not take any credit for such guidance as it was given freely and generously, so the least I can do is acknowledge and be grateful that I could move in the same spheres as such a great man and benefit from his presence and patience. The greatest compliment I can pay to Brian is this: as an Irishman who went out into the world he changed it for the better on a scale few have ever achieved. 

To the Kavanagh family, Brian's close friends and colleagues, his students and graduates all, we walked with a giant and we were all made better for it. 

Slan abhaile, Brian, go raibh maith agat a chara.

I am very grateful to the time I had with Brian. He has had a major influence on my practice as a paediatric intensivist. It is not just his phenomenal intellect that will stay with me, but mostly his fierceness to do right by our patients, which I can only imagine came from a deep caring place.
My thoughts are with Brian's family and friends.

Rachel Agbeko
Consultant in Paediatric Intensive Care
Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

Brian and I lived geographically distant lives but professionally our paths crossed frequently and we shared an appreciation of respiratory physiology and paediatric intensive care. I came to respect his intelligence, his quiet and wonderful humour and the pleasure of his company.
His passing is a loss not only to his family but also our patients and the profession.
My heart goes out to his family at this time.He will not be forgotten in my lifetime.

Brian was on of the most intelligent brains that I ever came across. His thinking was always out of the ordinary.  I am deeply saddened by his unexpected demise. His teaching will always be a part of my practice wherever I go. Rest in peace Brian 

I was in my senior year as a PICU fellow along with a great group (Cupido, Anton, Riphagen, Hon, Shimizu), when Brian Kavanagh started at Sickkids. I still remember him bringing Nelson’s to back rounds with him every morning. We recently joked that he may have taught us all I know in critical care, but we taught him all he knew in paediatrics. The truth is, I am not as grateful to Brian for what he did for me during my fellowship, but more for what he will not admit that he did for me afterwards. He was a catalyst, promoting the careers of others, never letting you know, never taking credit. 

I was influenced by the man I observed Brian to be early in his Sickkids career, to how he conducted himself later, and how he affected and shaped those around him. It is no secret he did not suffered fools gladly, but he harnessed his brilliance and high expectations into patience and mutual respect, humility, kindness and compassion, always peppered with wit and humour. This was the wisdom of Brian Kavanagh; using his knowledge to inspire others to further theirs. A mentor to all mentors; a teacher to all who teach. 
Brian, I am eternally grateful to you for your wisdom, your influence, your guidance, and most of all, your friendship. I will miss you dearly and always, rest assured we will honour you and keep your legacy alive by conducting ourselves as you inspired us to. My deepest condolences to your family and loved ones, and to all your friends around the globe. Our love is with you forever. 


Brian was a young fellow in training when I first saw him make a presentation at a critical care conference; he was knowledgeable, confident and lived up to his heritage by being "able to tell a good story"  with outstanding humour. What a talent!  It not only enhanced the learning experience but also made the day so enjoyable. I was so pleased when he was recruited to SickKids to help provide outstanding care to our society's most critically ill children, help discover new ways to treat their illnesses and educate paediatric health care providers to provide care to our children and our children's children. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him and the children will be forever grateful for his contributions to their health care.
Hugh O'Brodovich MD, FRCPC 
Chair of Paediatrics and Paediatrician in Chief SickKids; 1996 - 2006

Brian: you made me question things and learn to simplify thing down to the basic essentials. You pushed me to do better and at times I felt in awe and scared around you but only because your approval was elevating. I always felt supported and knew I could call you for help and there would be no questions asked, you would just help. My heart breaks for your family, friends and extended Sickkids family worldwide. In the days following your death I watched the outpour of grief on social media from all corners of the world and your impact in critical care worldwide was palpable and although I knew you would not like the fuss , I wish you could know how many lives you touched..hoping your family gains some comfort from that. My heartfelt sympathies to you all. Brian will forever be missed and never forgotten. 

I was saddened to learn that Dr. Brian Kavanagh passed way. The first time I met Brian was at a grant review meeting before he joined Sick Kids. Since we moved to PGCRL, Our labs have shared the same floor and same room. Brian was a wonderful colleague and excellent physician scientist. My sincere condolences to his family and friends.

We, the Miyasaka family, are so saddened to learn of Brian’s passing. My two sons, many of my fellows and I were equally and favorably impressed by his humble deportment, but precisely thought out scientific mind. I got acquainted with Brian in 1999 when he joined HSC. We spent many hours exchanging ideas as I was reacquainting myself to Canadian medicine and he was facing his first exposure to pediatrics. We spent many mutually beneficial and memorable times together. I treasure these memories from both Canada and the times he visited Japan. With sincere condolences,

Kats Miyasaka, Tokyo, JAPAN

I was completely stunned to hear that you passed away on June 15th. I feel very sad now, however, I cannot but admire your great contribution to the research works of critical care medicine. Indeed, you are a great mentor. When I joined your lab in July 2002, your trainees were Conan, Michelle, Alik and me. Takehiro, Francesco and Satoko followed us. I worked with you for three years until September 2005. Although you were very busy in the clinical and educational duties, you kindly looked after us by gaining the CIHR grants, discussing and directing our experimental studies. Doreen also joined the meetings and helped our research works. Thanks to your directions, each of us published several papers in the top journals of critical care medicine. The strength of your lab lay in your nice character and hard woks. You also had special respect for Charlie and Kats as the excellent predecessors in the respiratory physiology. 
We never forget your kindness and braveness. We all love you forever. May your soul rest in peace. 


I worked as a researcher with Brian last year. He is very smart, kind and thoughtful. He was good at understanding Japanese English.
I like his humor very much. 
I extend my heartfelt condolences to his families, colleagues, and friends.

I knew Brian well in university.  He was intense, funny, irreverent and a good friend.  We lost touch as our careers diverged but I know he helped countless Irish doctors in their training who spoke so highly of him. We met up last year to catch up and he hadn't changed a bit.  I'm so glad we did. My deepest sympathies to Hilary and his family, 
 

Brian was a kind and compassionate man and an excellent clinician.
My condolences to his family and friends.
Karla

Dr. Kavanagh always amazed me with his intelligence - so much so that I shared with my kids that it was like he had two brains.  He also amazed me with his genuine graciousness and kindness with the capacity to care for others like he had two hearts.  I will always remember Brian as the man who made everyone feel included and would draw others into the healing circle with inclusivity.   Sending my deepest condolences to his family during this difficult time.  

I was saddened to learn that Dr. Brian Kavanagh had died. He was always a willing teacher, professional and gentleman each time I delivered a patient to him at Hospital for Sick Childrens PICU.  My condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. 
Mary Wagner 
Ornge Pediatric Critical Care Transport Team

My sincere condolences to Brian’s family and all who loved him.
No superlatives nor adjectives enough to describe the man.
A father who always talked about his girls, médecin par excellence, scientist, scholar and friend.
Mr. B, you are greatly missed.


First time, I met with Dr. Brian Kavanagh at Shinjuku, Tokyo, more than 10 years ago. Since that time, Dr. Kavanagh has been one of my great mentors. I had an honorable privilege to get bedside teaching directly from Dr. Kavanagh during my PICU fellowship between 2008 and 2010. His lectures on physiology were excellent and there were always new learnings I hadn't noticed before. After my training, he has continuously brush up my knowledge and skills through his great researches and talks at conferences. One of his unforgettable words is "we practice medicine to make patients 
 and their families happy, not clinicians".  It has resonated with me. Dr. Kavanagh will be missed by so many Japanese colleagues.  

Your bright mind enlightened my professional path but your honesty and your open heart are the things I will miss the most. You were the best mentor I could ask for and a close friend. I will never forget the passion you put in pushing me to be the best version of myself. Now I know I have “to dance” for the both of us. My condolences to your family and beloved ones. I already miss you deeply. I’ll see you on the other side my friend.


I am privileged to have known Brian for almost 30 years. He was a shining light in his field but never forgot his roots. His intelligence,wit,humor and influence will be sorely missed by many. Sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. Rest In Peace Friend. 
Liam Claffey
Dublin
Ireland

I am sad to learn of Brian’s passing. I am grateful to his leadership, mentorship and interest he took in my career.  Brian was an outstanding visionary leader and will be missed. Gone too soon.

The sharpest critical care anesthesiologist and clinical scientist ever...at the same time, the kindest and most caring friend... We will miss you...miss your generosity in scientific guidance...miss your  brightness, sharpness and wittiness, but we'll miss the most our caring friend Brian. 

Brian was leader in both in Canada and internationally in Critical Care Medicine and Anesthesiology.  He had a razor sharp mind that constantly challenged the status quo.  He was also a gifted teacher and clinician.  He was a friend and fellow countryman.  It is tragic that he died at such a young age.  He will be sorely missed. My condolences to his family and colleagues.

An exceptional teacher and physician whose focus was always the patient. He took the time to truly listen to all and his sense of humor always brightened the day. Rest in peace .  

My thoughts and Prayers Briseda and family.

When I was chief of research at SickKids, I learnt to truly appreciate Brian as a compassionate clinician, a dedicated researcher and a fun companion on SickKids mission to Qatar. I am truly saddened by his loss and send my sincere condolences to his family at this difficult time.

I write to convey my enormous  respect and admiration for Brian's fine leadership in the Canadian anesthesiology and critical care communities.  Brian will be remembered always, for his outstanding academic contributions, for his clinical expertise, his superb teaching, and mentorship of a generation of students, residents and fellows.  Brian cared deeply for others, and he will be greatly missed.
I offer my sincerest condolences to Brian's family at this very sad and difficult time.
Don Miller
Ottawa 

The Brian Kavanagh I came to know over a couple of decades as a colleague at SickKids was a shining example of the best of medicine, science and human caring and sharing.  A joy and support to colleagues, collaborators, trainees and friends.  
Deepest sympathy to his family and to all who cared about him.

So sad and shocked to hear the news of Brian's passing- my condolences and prayers. This is a great loss for his family, his friends, his trainees, his colleagues. I will always remember Brian's sense of humour and friendly demeanor. 

Dans ces moments de peine, je souhaite dire, au nom de la Société de Réanimation de Langue Française, l'immense tristesse des médecins intensivistes francophones à l'annonce du décès de notre collègue et ami Brian Kavanagh.
Brian n’était pas seulement un des plus brillants et des plus novateurs cliniciens-chercheurs de notre discipline. C’était également une personnalité profondément attachante et respectée de tous. Ceux qui ont eu la chance de le rencontrer garderont à jamais le souvenir de son élégance intellectuelle, de son ouverture d’esprit, de sa gentillesse et de son humour. 
Ce fut un honneur que de partager avec lui la passion pour la recherche au service de l’amélioration des soins. Au-delà de sa contribution majeure au progrès des connaissances, nous garderons en mémoire, les moments privilégiés que furent nos rencontres. 
Au nom de la SRLF, je présente à tous ses amis, collaborateurs et collègues ainsi qu’à sa famille mes très sincères condoléances.
Respect Mr Kavanagh,
Salut Brian, 
Alain Mercat
Président of the French Intensive Care Society


Brian you will be dearly missed, rest in peace...... What a wonderful, cheerful and brilliant person, always pleasant, loving and with a great sense of humor. 

 Our sincere condolences to the Kavanagh family.

On behalf of the Association of Canadian University Departments of Anesthesia (ACUDA), I would like to share our condolences with Brian's friends, family and colleagues. Brian was a remarkable physician leader who innovated, challenged and drove change in the academic and clinical realms of anesthesiology and critical care. He did it with passion, wit and clarity. He was an important part of ACUDA for 10 years and assisted many new chairs find her/his feet in new roles. He will be sorely missed.

Rest in peace Brian.

Brian's influence on my life and career was immeasurable.  Without question, I would not be where I am today professionally had it not been for Brian. His mentorship was unparalleled, expert, and selfless. 
His expertise, kindness, and incredible sense of humour will be sorely missed.  I feel lucky to have had the chance to know him.
Neil Goldenberg

Brian was a terrific colleague at SickKids and a great role model as a clinician-scientist in the hospital's Research Institute and at the University of Toronto.
Sincere condolences to family members during this sad time of loss,
Philip M. Sherman
Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto

  I knew Brian not as an esteemed colleague or beloved mentor, as is the case with so many of those who have left glowing tributes,  but as a friend.
He was introduced to me, the proprietor of the restaurant Allen’s, by Doctors Geoff Barker and  Peter Cox.
Brian quickly became a friend and  I will always remember and honour his brilliance, intelligence, wit and extraordinary human sympathy.
He was a gentleman of the very highest order - and one hell of a Traditional Irish musician.
Brian Kavanagh will long be remembered by those who knew him or knew about him with love and the greatest respect.



I had the pleasure of working with  Dr. Kavanagh during his time as Chair for the SickKids New Investigator Review Committee for several years.  Brian was smart, witty and decisive, he was also a very dedicated volunteer who helped shape many important changes to the program.  He was a wonderful person and will be dearly missed! 



I don't think Brian left us. As long as we continue to serve humanity with the skills acquired from him, with the inquisitive mind trying to seek answers for the questions in our professional lives which have no answers so far, he will be part of us. Somehow, God likes the STARS among us. His physical absence will be a huge loss to the scientific community of the Wold. His ever lasting smile and untiring rounds are difficult to fade from memory. 
Brian, please Return If Possible....
Remembering the good times we shared with you in 2006-2007,

Suneel Pooboni
Part of SickKids family

It's obvious to anyone that Brian was an oustanding doctor, researcher, mentor and a role mode for any of the lucky individuals who had the opportunity to meet him.
But to me, the most important is that he was a genuinely good and generous human being, always trying to help the best he can. He would listen and consider you the same if you are a first year medical student or an internationally recognized Professor.
He had a very sharp sense of humor and it was challenging not to laugh outloud when you were sitting next to him in a meeting.
I suppose he felt how much we loved him but I'm sad not to have had the opportunity to tell him this directly.
He'll be higly missed and Toronto's Critical Care will never be the same without him.

Brian was an extraordinary person. Brilliant scientist able to communicate the most complex concepts in a simple manner.  Extremely generous and passionate. He felt joy in helping others succeed... shine... 
His legacy will live for many years in those who had the blessing of having shared some time with him.
My deepest condolences and thanks to the family, closest friends and clinicians to be there for him during his last days! We’ll do our best to honour him by doing our job the best possible ... with a smile.

Brian Kavanagh is a brilliant ICU clinician, a ground-breaking researcher, and a visionary chairman. My deepest condolences to his family and he  will be greatly missed. 

Brian, I never forget our wonderful time that we spent together for three years in Toronto. I am very proud of being one of your students. I learned so many things from you and Brian has changed my life. Brian, you were my father in Toronto. My family and I loved you so much. Legacy from Brian will live with me forever.

Brian was a brilliant scientist, a gentle teacher and an exceptional human being with a great sense of humour. Translational Medicine at the SickKids Research Institute has lost one of its most eminent personalities.

Before knowing personally Dr Kavanagh, I had a tremendous respect and admiration for him as a scientist. 
Later on I had the privilege of knowing him personally and even have his contribution to our projects, and my respect and admiration for him enormously grew. He was so sharp, always getting to the point, without adding one word more than necessary. But also so kind, humble and fun. He will be greatly missed by many.
Thank you for all that you taught us, Brian!

I had the honour of working with Brian and his research team for two years. He had such a unique way of looking at things and a clever sense of humour which would always put us in great spirits. Brian always made time to meet and talk and gave some great advice that will stay with me forever. I regret not getting to hear him play his uilleann pipes. He will be very sadly missed. Ní beidh a leithéid arís ann.

Dr. Kavanagh was very influential in my training in Anesthesia and encouraged me to seek out research and clinical opportunities in mechanical ventilation and critical care.   I owe a lot of my success to him.  I will miss his humour, scientific rigour and mentorship.  

I've known Brian for ~19 years when he sat on my PhD committee.  He was always honest, compassionate and loyal.  He had a way of making you feel that your opinion mattered.  He had a very positive influence on my life and he will be missed.

Brian was an exceptional noble gentleman. Being good and compassionate to people is a wonderful legacy to leave behind.

To Brian's Family and Friends, 

I was so very sad to hear that Brian had passed away. I had the honor of working with him in the Department of Anesthesia at the University of Toronto. Brian was a visionary leader, incredibly intelligent, highly creative, funny, and a loyal friend. He loved his family dearly, and his passion for his work always shone through. Brian was that rare type of individual who saw the best in everyone, and inspired them to be their best too.  I learned so much from him - lessons that will stay with me forever. 

Please accept my sincerest condolences on Brian's untimely passing. My heart breaks for your loss. 

I am so shocked and saddened to learn of Brian's passing.  We overlapped as anesthesia chairs, and I thoroughly enjoyed his company during many ACUDA & CAS events.  His sharp intelligence and quick wit were instrumental in yanking us back to a sensible course.  All this accomplished with a wonderful twinkle in his eye.  Please accept my heartfelt condolences.

SB Backman
McGill University

I've know Brian since 2000. He was a newish staff member at SickKids and I was an oldish fellow in critical care. He loved reminding me that we were similar ages. Over the years we would see each other from time to time and we would catch up in that familiar way you do with old friends. Brian was smart, hilarious and deeply compassionate. He will leave an enduring legacy and we will miss him. 

I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear the news of Brian’s passing. Brian was a legend in the field and his legacy will be eternal. So many have benefited from his wisdom, his thoughtful approach to science. Brian was instrumental in shaping my early career - and many of his words have been transformative both personally and indirectly within the field of Neonatology. The world has lost a true gentlemen and a scholar of the upmost integrity. Thank you Brian for your honesty, your creativity and your positive outlook. I will
Never forget you. 
A fellow Irish Scholar

Patrick  

I knew Brian through the U of T anesthesia department. I did not spend much time with him or have the chance to get to know him well, which I regret. He always came across as very smart but also as very charming and affable. He was calm and dignified when he needed to be, but casual and approachable on less formal occasions. 
My condolences to his family and all who were close to him.
He died much too soon and will be a great loss to many.

Brian will be deeply missed. He was an inspiration to all young clinician-scientists and immensely supportive. I would not be where I am without him. I was stunned at his passing and please accept my most sincere sympathy and love from Boston.

On behalf of the Canadian Perioperative Anesthesia Clinical Trials Group (PACT), I would like to share our condolences with Brian's friends, family and colleagues. Brian was a true light in our specialty, a genius, a visionary leader, and most of all, a wonderful, kind and witty  person. He inspired many of us, and  inspired our organization ( PACT) to strive for excellence.  

Thank you Brian for all you did. Rest in peace. 


    

To Brian's family and friends: 
A trusted and highly capable colleague with an incisive mind, shared values,  and a sharp wit and a person who 'went to bat' for that  which he believed - that is how I shall remember our colleague Brian.  I was stunned by his passing and extend to you my heartfelt condolences. May all that he was and gave to colleagues, children, and families, lessen the pain of your loss.

Brian was for us a great collaborator, a mentor, and a friend, one of the sharpest minds in our field. He was always ready to discuss and share new ideas, and we learnt so much writing papers with him. He will be missed immensely. Our warmest thoughts to his family and friends.

Maurizio Cereda, Yi Xin
Philadelphia


My sincere condolences to Brian's Family. 
A great Man we lost. Will forever cherish the moments spent with him at SickKids. 

Brian was a truly remarkable physician, scholar and leader among his peers. I have fond memories of working with him at the University of Toronto. His dedication to excellence, concern about his colleagues and sense of humour were admirable and deeply appreciated.  He will be dearly missed. To his family and friends, please accept my most heartfelt sympathy at this time or remembrance. 

My sincere condolences to the family. Brian was to me a mentor, a friend and a colleague. He will be deeply missed. 

Dear Mrs. Briseida Kavanagh,

June 18, 2019

My name is MinHye So and I am chief of the medical staff of the Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Nagoya City University, Japan. I am sending this message as a representative of our department.
We are so sorry to hear about Prof. Kavanagh’s passing.
We extend to you our heartfelt condolences.
For several years, Prof. Kavanagh gave us opportunities to study in Toronto and even now that experience helps us do our best.
Prof. Kavanagh visited Japan to attend our anniversary party, not once but twice. The lectures he gave were impressive, and we had great time with Prof. Kavanagh.
His kind face will remain forever with us.
May his soul rest in peace, and may you and your families be comforted by the outpouring of love surrounding you.

With the deepest sympathy.

MinHye So, MD., Ph.D
Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, 
Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences
1 Kawasumi, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya 467-8601, Japan


Brian was exceptional in many ways - my strongest memory is of his obdurate integrity. We were lucky to have had such a colleague.
My sincere sympathy to those who loved him. 

Brian was an incredible physician, mentor, and colleague. I feel lucky to have had the opportunity to work with him in the few years I worked in the PICU. I will cherish those memories, the learning and the chance I had to work with one of the best! My deepest condolences to his family and friends. This is truly an enormous loss. 

Brian was a highly valued colleague, leader and mentor.  On a personal note I greatly valued the time he always made to talk, reflect and support my own goals and ambitions. He will be greatly missed by me and many others in Canadian medicine. 

Memorial Service

PRIVATE CREMATION SERVICE : Please be advised that the cremation service has been arranged by invitation only. The family has asked that you respect their wishes and privacy during this difficult time. Please see memorial service information above.

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

Brian Patrick Kavanagh

15 avril 1962 – 15 juin 2019

Giffen-Mack and Trull Funeral Home

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