December 31st, 2020

It is with a heavy heart we announce the tragic passing of Brian Leonard Brown on December 31st, 2020. Brian will be deeply missed by his loving wife Penny Brown, daughters Shira (Dean) and Jordan. His stepsons Micheal (Amanda) of Kamloops, Richard (Heather) of 100 Mile House, Steven (Katrina) of Salmon Arm. And his grandchildren Christian, Logann, Payton, Jaidyn, Kaydence, Tobias and Branton. He also leaves behind his brothers Steve (Sharon) of Langley, BC, Brent of High River, AB. And his nephew Dave Brown (Laurie) of Calgary, AB. Brian follows his deceased family members, Parents Len and Pat Brown, brother Craig and sister Caldeen.

Brian was born in Princeton, BC. Due to his fathers’ career with the RCMP, his family was also stationed in Merritt and Falkland. Finally moving to Kamloops when Brian was the age of 10. Growing up in Brocklehurst, Brian graduated from Norkam Secondary. During his early 20’s, he was in the Armed Forces for 3 years, training as an Airframe Technician and then going to Cariboo College, achieving 1st year Welding. This led to various gainful employment throughout BC and NWT, eventually leading him back to Kamloops. Many Kamloopians will remember Brian’s kindness, gentle nature, special sense of humour and deep empathy during his 19 years as a driver for the HandiDart.

It was during the early years as a HandiDart driver where he met his beloved “Brown Eyed Girl” Penny Lynn, who later became his wife. It goes without saying, one of his greatest attributes was stepping up to be an awesome stepdad to Penny’s 3 sons. He was immensely proud of them and their successes into adulthood. In the years that followed, Brian and Penny together, welcomed their daughter Shira Denae, who completed their family. He had an individual special bond with each of his children. Shira, being the only daughter was and always will be daddy’s girl. In 2007, following the passing of his brother Craig, he and Penny took on the role of raising Craig’s granddaughter Jordan. The years following where kept busy raising his family and working for HandiDart, but Brian longed for something more. He returned to Post Secondary Education, achieving his Finishing Carpenters Certificate. This career choice took him in many different directions, fulling his passion for woodwork. During these years he continued to enjoy the growth of his family, welcoming 7 grandchildren, which led to his true calling and passion, working with Special Needs Children and Youth at Risk. This path led to the further expansion of his family, welcoming Brian’s special little buddy, Seth, who Seth fondly referred to as Papa.

Throughout Brian’s life, with all his experiences and career choices, trying to find a calm, internal peace, Brian continued to combat Mental Health and Substance Abuse. Although he tried many times successfully to battle his demons, through multiple Recovery, Treatment and Support programs, the internal war continued. Even though this took a toll on his life, loved ones, family, trying desperately to fight, in the end he lost the battle.

Brian’s family and loved ones will deeply miss his sick sense of humour (LOL), his papa bear demeanour, and his unique style of communication. He had a way of making those around him feel loved, at ease and that they mattered.

Don’t hate the addict,

hate the disease

Don’t hate the person,

Hate the behaviour

If it’s hard to watch it,

imagine how hard

It must be to live it.

Due to Covid, a Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers if so desired, donations to the Phoenix Centre or RMH project Kamloops would be appreciated.

You may express your condolences at Alternatives Funeral & Cremation.

• Date : 2020-12-31
• Location : Kamloops