September 16, 1945 – November 5, 2015
Brien passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family. Cherished husband of Gretchen for 37 years. Loving father of Gus, Sam and Alexis. Brien grew up in Toronto and moved to British Columbia where he started his career as a high school teacher in Fort Nelson in 1970. He moved to Campbell River in 1974 to open the Chimo Alternate School. In 1979 he transferred to Carihi Secondary School as a School Counsellor and finished his career as a School District Psychologist. After retirement he worked as a Private Educational Consultant. Brien dedicated his life to his love of family and friends, knowledge and the outdoors. Sailing was his passion. He will be fondly remembered for his wisdom and sense of humour. He took his role as a father very seriously – providing guidance and support for his three children. During his successful career he cared very much for the students he taught and counselled over the decades.
The family wishes to send a special thank you to Dr. James Proctor in Campbell River, Dr. Vanessa Bernstein in Victoria, and to the wonderful people at Campbell River Cancer Care.
A Memorial Service was held on Tuesday, November 10, 2015 in the Campbell River United Church. In memoriam donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated by the family.