Brian Rupert

Brian was predeceased by his mother Valey (Bill) Walker, his father Leonard Rupert, his brothers Larry Rupert, Bobby Rupert, Len Walker and sister Sharen Rupert-Brown.

He is survived by his wife Valerie Rupert, children and grandchildren Michelle (Dan and Drew) McMahon, Tricia (Rob Klassen) Rupert, Jamie (Joelle, Scarlett and Molly) Rupert. Also his special Godson Lucas Rupert-Brown, several nieces and nephews.

Brian came from humble beginnings in Pine Falls, Manitoba surrounded by his large extended family. His love of family played a significant role in shaping his values, morales and always championing the underdog. Brian had a commanding presence, but never demanded respect; he was the strong silent type.

Brian took great pride in the accomplishments of his children and one of his biggest joys in life were his grandchildren Drew, Scarlett and Molly. The family often gathered for Sunday brunches and dinners, and no one loved Christmas more than he did.

In 2016, after 20 years of research and communications he was successful in obtaining his status and finally being recognized as Indigenous. He took immense satisfaction in being able to share this with his children and extended family.

He loved to play baseball and hockey from a young age and in his later years coached a police hockey team; taking them to Sweden and Calgary for The World Police Fire Games. He loved music of all genres and played lead guitar in a band called “The Mods”.

After beginning his career with the Royal Canadian Air Force Military Police in 1967, he met his wife Valerie. They married in 1971 before moving to Vermillion Bay, where Brian reported for his first posting with the OPP. By 1978 they had three children and had been relocated to Kenora, where they continued their lives together.

Brian rose through the ranks of OPP eventually becoming the first Indigenous Non-Commissioned Officer to be promoted to Inspector. In 1999 he took a lead role as Operational Technical Supervisor of Policing, working with Grand Council Treaty #3 to develop Treaty Three Police Service and becoming the inaugural Chief of the Service. He enjoyed the camaraderie of the policing community and held his annual golf tournament to bring troops together.

After retiring in 2008, Brian loved to tinker with wood working projects and developed “Geezer Contracting” with his buddy Kenny Patterson. They worked on many household projects mostly for their children but their biggest accomplishment was their ice shack. Brian loved to travel to hot destinations, fish on Lake of the Woods and watch his Jets and Blue Jays.

The family would like to thank Melanie and Ken Patterson for their steadfast support over the last couple of years. More recently the family would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Brad Kyle, Nurses Char Mellilo and Carly Montgomery along with the staff at Lake of the Woods District Hospital.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, April 25, 2025 at 11:00 am at the NeeChee Friendship Centre (Upper Hall), 300 McClellan Avenue, Kenora, Ontario.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Fellowship Centre or Lake of the Woods Foundation in Kenora ON.