August 30, 1946 ~ September 1, 2023 (age 77)
Brian passed away peacefully, after a brief battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of his family, at RVH, in Barrie, ON on Friday September 1, 2023. Brian is survived by and was the much loved husband and partner of Jan (nee Willmetts). Loving father to Kristen Seal (Chris), and Jeffrey (Carol). Incredible life-long step-father to Lindy Wilton, and Becky Palmer (nee Wilton) (Zack). “Uncle Ted” (grandfather) to Madeline Anderson (Egeman), and Charlotte Seal (Brett). Fun and much loved Poppa to Amina and Lucas Palmer. Brian was raised by his loving parents, Muriel and George, with his two siblings Maxine Heinrich (nee Anderson) and Wayne (deceased). He will be deeply missed by his large, loving extended family. Missed terribly by the pets he loved, and now hopefully reunited with his beloved Alfie, the Earl of Cox Mill.
Brian and Jan first met after having both gone through a divorce. That first date Brian said, “I sail, a lot… it’s caused problems in past relationships.” Jan was eager to try sailing, and so their 30 year love story began. Brian will be remembered for his consistent, loving and kind ways. Everyone who knew him will remember his calm, patient way of helping others make their way through life. Brian could always be counted on for his kind logic, ‘Brian-isms’ and understanding of the ways of the world. As a step-father to Lindy and Becky, he welcomed them into his home and life and helped raise them as if they were his own children. He had a huge influence on a number of their friends that joined us at our dinner table any weeknight that someone needed a place to be. There was always room for more.
Kristen treasures her memories of living with her Dad. Kristen thanks her Dad for her early introduction to video games, which has become a lifelong pastime. Brian was always up for adventure, frequently pushing Jeff's cautious nature with a warm firmness that's hard to imitate. Jeff will always be grateful that his Dad introduced him to cycling, sparking a passion that has endured till this day. They are both grateful and have wonderful memories of the many trips taken with their Dad. He was always eager for an adventure.
Air Canada Cargo was Brian’s work home for over 34 years. He had a successful career in numerous roles, retiring as a trainer for the cargo system computers. After his retirement, he was able to embrace his true passion, sailing. He and Jan spent many happy years sailing Lake Simcoe and sometimes venturing to Georgian Bay for a summer. Countless hours at anchor socializing with the members of KBYC and many sailing adventures in the Caribbean and beyond. Brian and Jan enjoyed traveling and often could be found on their favourite island, Barbados. More recently, their interests turned to trailer camping. Brian embraced it with vigour and became a master at creating a great campfire. At the same time they took up cycling the rail trails in Simcoe County. As the years went by, they continued to enjoy this shared interest, becoming a little competitive at times as they pushed each other to go further. A lot of their cycling adventures ended by stopping for a glass of wine and a shared appetizer at whatever local pub caught their interest.
Please join us for a Celebration of Life to honour Brian. Brian never wanted anyone to make a fuss, and as per his wishes, he will be cremated and a simple gathering of family and friends is planned. If you would like to share a few words or a memory about Brian, please feel welcome to bring them in writing in a small frame to be included on the memorial table or write a few thoughts in the memorial book we’ll have available.
Brian’s celebration of life will be held on Sunday, September 17, 2023, between 1-4 pm, at Moondance Organic Gardens, located at 8463 5th Line, Angus, Ontario, L0M1B4. Inquiries, questions or well wishes if you can't attend can be made to [email protected].
This is an outdoor event with an event tent available as rain shelter, if needed. Please come dressed for the weather and bring your favourite camping chair for around the fire. We’re planning a campfire (not as great as Brian would have made), some snacks and a chance to share stories about what Brian meant to each of us. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, whose team of nurses and doctors went above and beyond and took incredible care of Brian in his final days. https://www.rvhkeeplifewild.ca/ways-to-give/memorial-giving/
Arrangements entrusted to Basic Funeral and Cremation Choices - Jennett Memorial Centre, barrie.basicfunerals.ca