Alfred Brian Kent

Born June 22, 1940 Simpson, SK

Died June 23, 2022 Saskatoon, SK

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Alfred “Brian” Kent. Predeceased by his father Lorne, mother Joyce and brother Bill. He is survived by his wife Karen of 60 years, and his brothers Carmen (Elaine) and Gordon (Beverly). He is remembered by his children Jason (Patti) and Terry von Doellen (Doug Obach); grandchildren Zachary Kent, Sarah Kent, Kane von Doellen, Alicia Kent and Bryn von Doellen; and great grandson Beckham von Doellen, along with many nieces and nephews.

Brian was born in Simpson, Saskatchewan where he attended elementary and high school.The Kent’s had a small farm just east of town, where Brian and his brothers were raised. After moving to Maryfield in 1961, he began working at the bank and he met Karen Northcut. Karen and Brian were married on October 7,1961 and in 1962 his son Jason was born, followed by his daughter Terry in 1964.

In 1964, Brian attended technical school in Moose Jaw, SK and earned his Machinist papers, soon after he moved to Saskatoon, SK and began working at various machine shops including John East Iron Works, Fabco, and Fleury Industries. Although he was a machinist and welder by trade, he had the imagination and creativity of an inventor. Brian helped to create many new machines in the 70s including equipment for the growing potash industry, wheelchair lifts that could be installed in residential homes, the first wheelchair accessible buses for the Sask Abilities Council and was inventing electric vehicles for paraplegics – clearly a man much ahead of his time. All the while he also kept busy designing and inventing in his own workshop, which he built in Grasswood, SK.

In 1992 Brian and Karen moved to Langbank, SK where they built a house and shop overlooking the Pipestone Valley. It was in Langbank that they helped start up a small farm equipment company called Seedhawk. With his mechanical knowledge and innovative ideas, Brian helped create a multi-million dollar company that is recognized as a leader world wide for agricultural equipment. In 2011, he and Karen moved to Humboldt, SK to live closer to Terry and his grandchildren. In retirement, he spent his days driving his ATV, snowmobiling, exploring, collecting firewood to heat the house, and tinkering in his shop.

His greatest enjoyment came from camping, canoeing, fishing and motorcycles. He spent many years exploring the rivers and lakes of Northern Saskatchewan, even completing a 200+ km long canoe trip from Stanley Mission to Flin Flon, Manitoba. Even in his 60’s and 70’s he would venture up to northern Saskatchewan lakes. Especially his favorite Besnard Lake for an annual week long fishing trip with his good friend Brent Cherkas starting in the mid 1990’s. Brian loved motorcycles and spent many days adventuring across the country, sometimes by himself, but often accompanied by Karen or friends. Brian loved country and bluegrass music, you could often find him in the shop working on his inventions and listening to tunes. Brian was also a dedicated family man, and spent lots of time sharing his love of the outdoors with his children and grandchildren.

Brian was a brilliant man of many ideas, but few words, who often expressed himself with a simple wry smile. His soft spoken manner, subdued sense of humor, and kind nature will be missed dearly. Rest in Peace, Brian.

A Memorial Service and Celebration of Life will be held at Watrous, SK and Manitou Beach on August 6.

.

Please contact Jason Kent at 306-250-8919 for details.