Brian John Wesley Parker

Brian is lovingly remembered by his wife of 70 years, Anne, their two daughters, Linda (Robert) and Laurel (Todd), grandchildren Shane and Quinn, sister-in-law Janet, and many nieces and nephews. Brian was predeceased by son, Michael, brother and sister-in-law Lorne and Gwen, niece Sharon Parker, brother-in-law Gary Bartleman. He was also predeceased by his father and cherished mentor, William Parker and mother Erma Parker.

The family story begins with Anne Stevenson from Morris MB catching Brian’s eye, followed by a short courtship before they marry and settle on the Parker homestead on the La Salle River in Sanford in 1955. They begin life together as school teacher and farmer, oblivious to the challenges and wonders that lie ahead.

Brian exhibited a thirst for knowledge from a young boy to senior and his accomplishments were many: Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (U. of M.), grain and hog farmer (SanPark Farms), an Entrepreneur - Prairie Pride Enterprises (sale and distribution of livestock equipment) and co-founder of Westland Plastics (plastic manufacturing/rotational moulding), and in ‘retirement years’ - Rainaway Products (exclusive CDN distributor) and real estate agent (Vancouver/ Sunshine Coast). In the early years hog farming in Sanford Manitoba, he was notably one of 4 farms chosen by Manitoba Pool Elevators to raise hybrid breeding sows in a sterile environment to supply blood for the development of the Salk Vaccine (SARS epidemic). This led to travel to and training for the Philippines on raising hybrid hogs with sales to both the Philippines and South America. He subsequently developed & taught a program at Red River College to train farmers on improved hog production methods. Over the decades he served on numerous boards and committees including School Trustee, Sanford Church board, Chairman of Sanford association for Manitoba Pool Elevators, President Norwest Seniors Curling Club, to name a few.

When tragedy struck in 1978 with the passing of son Michael, Brian & Anne found the strength to create new joy with each other, daughters, son-in-laws and grandchildren whenever and wherever it could be found. They embraced city life from 1980-1988 with a home in Westwood, purchased their much-loved waterfront cottage in Sioux Narrows, ON in 1984, followed by their home in West Vancouver in 1988, family and friends being welcome visitors at each location. They revelled in 20 years of ocean gazing from their home in West Van, enjoying a new circle of friends and expanding their love for travel by joining HomeLink for home exchanges, world-wide. In the warmer months, they enjoyed 40 years of wonderful lake life filled with sunny days of angling, reno projects, White Moose golf tournaments, vegetable/flower gardens, crib matches, BBQ’s and Happy Hours. Mom and Dad cherished their “lake friends” and were active members of the community.

Brian had a zest for life, his greatest joy derived from his vast inner circle, love of nature and countless interests including gardening, music, cottage, travel, fishing, bridge, billiards, curling, and was an avid Winnipeg Jets hockey fan. He was a man of Integrity, and a man of his word. He had an insatiable curiosity and genuine interest in discovering what makes a person ‘tick.’ With every person he met, from plumber to pastor to politician, he had a natural ability to pull out their story and become their friend.

He is fondly remembered for his generosity, his problem-solving skills, selflessness as a mentor, and creativity as an inventor. A perfectionist, known to many as “Mr. C (aka Mr. Clean)” he was organized to a tee, his shop and garage were pristine, and there was a tool for every task (often of his own invention). A true Macgyver, there was nothing that could not be repaired or repurposed. A kind man, he was very giving of his time, extending a helping hand to family and friends alike. In later years he took great pleasure in gardening and starting 60+ tomato plants from seed in his garage which he would personally deliver to lucky recipients.

When Anne’s health began to decline in 2008, Dad’s unwavering support and care for her became his final legacy, bringing them back to Manitoba to be with family, returning to his childhood roots in River Heights where he remained until his final days. Special thanks to the in-home care and support provided by Anabele Caras, Jenn Mallari and team and to the RN community supports.

Dad was our father, friend, and moral compass. He steered a steady ship, we were fortunate to be his passengers, and he is now in a safe and peaceful harbor.