December 16, 1953 - May 6, 2024
In loving memory ~
On 6 May 2024, our Brian passed away peacefully at age 70 due to cancer, in the presence of loved ones at the Aitken Hospice in Courtenay. He is survived by his wife Gwyneth, children Jill (Rob) and Mark (Stephanie) of whom he was very proud, mother Helen, sisters Sharon (Hugh), Gayle (Ray) and Sue (Ron) and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He loved you all.
Born in Winnipeg to Robert and Helen Taylor, Brian's early life in a military family shaped him into the man he would become. His father's many postings within Canada, to Edwards AFB in California and to England were all valuable learning experiences. His family camped across our country sparking Brian's love of the outdoors and fishing. A trip through the Rockies was the start of his love for the west coast. His father's ability to fix and build things was passed on to Brian, sometimes to the annoyance of his mother when he disassembled household appliances so he could learn how to rebuild them. He also learnt how to rebuild old cars which culminated years later with the restoration of a Jaguar E-type including converting it to a left-hand drive. Later, Brian would follow in his father's footsteps and join the military.
Brian attended both military colleges, his favourite being Royal Roads in Victoria. There he played rep hockey and soccer, was the Band Master for the Marching Band, played saxophone in the Stage Band, squeezed in some study time, and later graduated from Royal Military College in Kingston as an engineer. Real life then kicked in and Brian became a fighter pilot. It was a proud moment when his father, a former fighter pilot, pinned his wings on. Career highlights were flying the CF101 Voodoo on 409 AW(F) Sqn in Comox and the F4M Phantom on 29(F) Sqn RAF Coningsby England. Friends who flew with him described him as an ace pilot, a mentor, and a role model. When Brian retired, he left with countless exciting memories and many lifelong friends.
No one loved an adventure and a challenge more than Brian. He was always thinking (scheming) about the next one. First up after his military career was owning an RV Park and sport fishing business in the Comox Valley with friends, and its later development into residential condominiums. Then it was building and renovating houses, including our multi-generational home in Comox. For several years he enjoyed moose and elk hunting trips, primarily for the camaraderie, time spent in the great outdoors and the opportunity to explore remote areas. Highlights were a thrilling (sometimes heart-stopping) three week jet boat trip up the Kechika and Muskwa Rivers in northern B.C., a ten day guided horseback trip in the Rocky Mountains and a Vancouver Island elk hunt in the Brooks Peninsula area using kayaks (an unsuccessful, crazy idea with very close bear encounters never to be repeated).
In 2013, Brian's dream of owning a waterfront fish shack in Ucluelet came true (thanks to his very understanding wife). It was in worse than terrible shape, almost condemned, which made it the perfect challenge and fit for Brian's tenacity, problem solving and building skills. Over several years, he, with a friend assisting, rebuilt it completely. Of course there was always time for fishing along the way. This was Brian's happy place, be it on the water catching the big one or sitting on the deck watching the sun come up. This is where his ashes will be scattered.
Brian lived his life to the fullest, and as his brother-in-law said, he did it his way with a little course correction now and then from his wife. We will remember him always, not just for his many talents and intellect, but also for his character, humour, wisdom, and the mischievous twinkle in his beautiful blue eyes. Rest in peace Brian. We hope you are out fishing with your father and nephew.
A huge thank-you to our families and friends, near and far, for your support and love (and stealthy food drop-offs) over the past few months. We also wish to thank our medical system personnel for their tremendous support, including our family doctor, B.C. Ambulance, Comox Valley Hospital, Home Support, the Aitken Hospice, and our MAiD doctor. We will be eternally grateful for the wonderful, compassionate care provided at the Hospice.
There will be no formal service at Brian's request. An informal gathering will be held at a later date. If you wish to make a donation in memory of Brian, please consider the Cancer Society or your local Hospice.
Condolences may be offered at www.telfordtoneffboyd.ca
Toneff Funeral Services
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