January 2, 1940-February 4, 2017
William “Brian” McConnan was born January 2, 1940 in Vancouver, British Columbia. Brian passed away peacefully on February 4, 2017. Brian is survived by his daughter Nadine McConnan (Michael) and brother Bruce Harold McConnan (Patricia). Brian will be remembered with affection and humour as he always had a caring demeanor and a quick wit. He was a kind and loving father who gladly sacrificed for his family. A source of his pride being his daughter Nadine who was lead to public service because of what she saw in her dad.
Brian went to Magee high school and upon graduation he attended BCIT where he completed his Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Certification. He went on to obtain his private pilot’s licence and carried on his passion for flying throughout his life. As a young man, he accepted a job with Island Airlines which would bring him to Campbell River. Upon his arrival in his new home, he soon met and married Roberta “Bobbie” Weber. He served for 10 years as a volunteer Firefighter during his 14 years with Island Air. Upon the closure of Island Air, he joined the paid staff for the Campbell River and District Fire Department where he served as a firefighter, and later fire inspector for 26 years. Throughout his life, Brian was always committed to helping others. Upon his retirement, he became involved with the Campbell River Emergency Social Services – Emergency Preparedness. This gave Brian another opportunity to utilize his organizational skills, which he enjoyed very much. Brian had many interests among which included an active membership in the Campbell River Flying Club and the Vintage Car Club, North Island Chapter. Dad was always happiest at either the airport or in a shop working on a car or airplane.
Brian’s family would like to thank the community of Campbell River for their continued support throughout his illness. The firefighters have been unwavering in their support for dad and he would be so touched by this. We would like to personally thank Les Ready and Bob Kaiser for their kindness and generosity. We would like to thank the members of the Vintage Car Club, North Island Chapter for all of their help - dad always enjoyed the weekly lunches with the group. And to his close personal friends, thank you to Diane Matheson, Gordie Beadle, Donna and Don Hunter for their friendship and support.
A Celebration of Brian’s life will be held at Maritime Heritage Centre at 1:00pm, on Sunday, March 5, 2017
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation made on his behalf to Campbell River & District Adult Care Society in Willow Point.