Joseph Edgar Gilles Lebrun

Gilles is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years Jo Ann, sons Michael (Laura), Matthew (Jordan) and Richard, granddaughter Meredith, as well as four brothers and three sisters. Gilles was the son of the late Gaston Lebrun and the late Elisabeth Mercure Lebrun.

Gilles had a 22-year career in the Royal Canadian Navy. He enjoyed regaling his family and friends with stories of his travels and many adventures from this time in his life. He then followed this with an equally long career at J.S. Foster Precision Manufacturing in Central Saanich.

Gilles made friends easily, and was well-known and loved by his neighbours on and around Empress Avenue. He had a keen interest in rocks and minerals and was a long-standing member of the Victoria Lapidary and Mineral Society, often leading club members on field trips to nearby locations to share his knowledge. More recently, he took an interest in human psychology, launching the website www.mymindvirus.com with the goal of helping others maintain a clear and congruent mind.

Gilles was diagnosed with terminal colon cancer in 2005, but through a determination that few can match, survived for 17 more years, continuing to guide and protect his family who meant so much to him.

Gilles had a mischievous sparkle in his eye and loved to laugh. He kept his family and nurses entertained, even in his final days.

The family would like to thank the many doctors, nurses and other health care professionals and hospital staff who helped Gilles over the last 17 years. No service by request. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the BC Cancer Foundation.