October 3, 1933 – June 5, 2022
Lifetime resident of Winnipeg, passed away peacefully at the Grace Hospital with his nephew Clive Akins and caregiver Tina Ross by his side.
During a long working career, Brian was president of both Wallace & Akins Ltd., Contractors and Engineers; and Akins Building Consultants Ltd., property managers and advisors. He will be missed by friends and family alike.
During his professional life Brian served on the National Research Council; was a past president and honorary life member of the Winnipeg Construction Assoc; served as an advisor to the RRCC Civil Tech program and also the Carpentry Apprenticeship Board.
Brian was also very active in the community. He served two terms as president and was a life member of the Valour Road Curling Club. He was a long time supporter and season ticket holder of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. He also supported MTC, the Winnipeg Symphony, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, and various charitable organizations including endowment to the Winnipeg Foundation.
Brian attended Laura Secord, Gordon Bell High Sch, United College and the U of M.
He graduated in 1956 with a BSc in Civil Engineering. His Thesis entitled “Winter Construction” won an Award, and recognition across Canada. Shortly thereafter in 1958, Brian married his high school sweetheart Shirley Bruce, RN. They enjoyed a long, happy, and active life together. They were not favoured with children of their own.
Brian was a world traveller. His favourite form of transportation was Ocean Cruising with his wife Shirl. Brian enjoyed entertaining both at his city home and at his cottage at Matlock, where cooking, gardening, and Happy Hour were among his favourite activities. Brian took a ‘hands on’ approach to household repairs and could fix most anything. He was generous with his advice and assistance in helping others solve similar problems.
In his youth, Brian played Soccer, Baseball and Floor Hockey on several school teams and enjoyed Tennis, Curling, Sailing, Swimming, Diving, and most aquatic activities. For many years, Brian and Shirl were enthusiastic members of RedBoine Boating Club. Many happy times were enjoyed while aboard ship, and at dock.
Brian was predeceased by his wife Shirley (2010); his parents, Col. E.J.W. (Ernie) and Kathleen (Kay) Akins; and his eldest brother Melvin (1954). He is survived by older brother George and his progeny Bruce and Kathy and their families; and younger brother Bill and his son and daughter, Clive and Susan.
Brian and family wish to extend a very special thanks to neighbour, friend, and caregiver, Tina Ross with husband Mark, for kind and caring attention to Brian’s well being over the past several years. Family also extends gratitude to Dr. George and staff on the 5th floor of Grace Hospital in appreciation of their kindness and understanding.
Cremation has taken place and no formal service will be held. A family get together is planned to commemorate Brian’s life.
“ Bon Voyage, Brian.” We miss you…
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