Left to mourn are his wife Dawn (Blais), son John (Angela), grandchildren Alaura and Brian, and his family in England: Jean, Heather, Neal, and Mandy. His nephews Andrew and Michael will also miss him.
Brian brought enthusiasm and dedication to his work life. His career in Information Technology (IT) began in England. Moving to Canada he worked with the Government of Nova Scotia and as Chief Information Officer (CIO) for the Victoria General Hospital in Halifax. His focus in health continued with a move to the West Coast where he held several roles including CIO for St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver Community Health and latterly Vancouver Island Health Authority. Always a strong mentor, Brian continued to support the next generation of IT professionals while teaching at the UVic School of Health Informatics.
Throughout his career Brian demonstrated commitment and hard work but his passion was boating. He had several boats while living in Halifax and was the Commodore of the Armdale Yacht Club in 1986. On arrival in Vancouver, he bought “Pampero”, a 42-foot C & C sailboat which served him well for many years in Vancouver and Victoria. But as hoisting the sails became less attractive, he sold ‘Pampero” and bought Heaven Sent, a 41 ft De Fever trawler. For Brian, nothing was better than messing around in boats and he spent many hours repairing, upgrading, and improving both the sailboat and trawler. Brian and Dawn spent many of their happiest days on the water.
In addition to his boat, Brian was an active volunteer at the Royal Victoria Yacht Club (RVYC). He led the moorage rebuild at Tsehum Harbour. He oversaw the Sea of Lights (3 years), planned logistics for Swiftsure (2 years) and was Board Secretary for 2.5 years until ill health forced him to step down. Brian was given the RVYC Volunteer of the Year award in recognition of his contributions to the Club.
Brian also enjoyed hiking and flying his remote-controlled aeroplanes. He was a reluctant gardener but was always prepared to help Dawn with the tough work. He liked to travel and enjoyed his holidays in Australia, New Zealand, France, Portugal, and England.
But more importantly Brian was an intelligent and curious man who always tried to broaden his knowledge of things. He had a well-developed sense of humour and told great stories especially after a few scotches or beers. He was kind, generous, thoughtful, a great hugger and loyal to his friends and family. But above all Brian was a gentleman who loved his family dearly and he will be missed more that words can say.
There will be no service, but a celebration of life will be held at the Royal Victoria Yacht Club on September 6 at 3 pm. Online condolences can be made at www.firstmemorialsaanich.com
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