Brian Neil Burns
December 9, 1963-January 25, 2007
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of “Burnsy”.
His life too short, but very full.
Brian was born in Ocean Falls. Brian spent his childhood living in fair Harbour, Zeballos, Comox Valley, and Mahatta River, graduating from NISS as valedictorian of his class in 1982.
After completing High School, Brian joined the Canadian Navy, where he spent 6 and a half years travelling the world, and earned an education in steam engineering. Brian was most proud of this accomplishment and after leaving the Navy went to work at the Port Alice Pulp Mill for 14 years as a 4th class steam engineer.
After leaving the Mill, Brian became an entrepreneur, manufacturing and distributing wood chips. While building a business he most recently also went back to work with the District of Port Hardy as arena staff, providing a service that kept him on the ice,
where he most loved to be.
Affectionately known as Burnsy, with his easy going, contagious upbeat personality he was a friend to all that knew him. Burnsy always made time for family, friends, hockey, golf, baseball and a cold beer. Whether playing, coaching, or refereeing, he also spent time volunteering on various committees and organizations. Earning him Volunteer of the Year 2006. His commitment to minor hockey on the North Island has left a lasting positive impact on many of our youth.
Brian was 4th out of seven children. Predeceased by his Paternal and Maternal grandparents, mother (Fay), brother Kyle, Uncle Tim, and Aunt Alicia. He leaves behind his father Paddy (wife, Norma), sisters Patricia (husband Malcolm, daughter Emma), Susan (late husband, Robert, daughters Sara, Jessica), Frankie (daughter Katie), Corrina (her mother, Marliene, husband Lyn, daughters Sydney, Larissa), brother Lyle. Will also be missed by his adopted family Bruce and Carol (Dylan, Jordan and Carly), and long time friend Dara (her daughter Katlynn).
A special thank you to Dr. Marlene Smith, and the staff at the Port Hardy Hospital for their excellent care and concern for our dear friend, beloved brother and devoted son.
A memorial service to honour Burnsy’s life will be held
Saturday, Feb. 3, 2007 at Seven Hills Golf Club at 1:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Minor Hockey on the North Island or the Junior program at Seven Hills Golf Club.
Forever in our thoughts.
Those we love we never lose,
for always they will be,
Loved, remembered, treasured,
always in our memory.