May 7, 1955 - May 4, 2018
It is with profound sadness that our family announces the passing of an amazing husband, father, grandfather and friend on Friday May 4, 2018 after a sudden illness.
Brian passed knowing he was deeply loved by his wife Carol, son Andrew, Taya, and grandson Kaiden, son Derek, daughter Kristen, son in law Michael and grandson Jackson. Brian was also cherished by numerous family members that knew him as brother in law, uncle and cousin. He was predeceased by his brothers lan and Michael and his parents Marjorie and Robert.
Brian was raised in Prince George, B.C. where his love of skiing, sailing and outdoors was born. There he started on his career in the automotive business at Rice Chevrolet Oldsmobile under the mentorship of his father, Robert Rice. Brian moved to Courtenay, Vancouver Island to purchase the Toyota Dealership in 1983. It was a match made in heaven-a small business that he could grow and develop and a community that he loved so much and could raise his family in recreation.
Skiing and sailing or being on the water continued as his passion as well as a love of golf. Brian enjoyed the camaraderie and gamesmanship with numerous groups for over 25 years. Brian remained active within Toyota throughout his 34 year career serving on Dealer Councils, Zone advisory boards and Excellence Groups. The Toyota family was very important to him and friendships were strong.
Brian was a past President of Rotary and lived by the 4 Way Test in both his business and personal life. He also served as President of the Chamber of Commerce and was committed to Hospice and many other local community organizations. He felt it was very important to give back to the community that gave him so much. Brian will be remembered for his quick wit, his self deprecating humour, his generosity, loyal friendship and love for his family.
Funeral service to be held at the Sid Williams Theatre, Courtenay, BC, Wednesday May 23, 2018 at 11 am.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice or Comox Valley Hospital Foundation would be appreciated. The family would like to thank the ICU doctors and nurses at Comox Valley Hospital, Royal Jubilee and Victoria General for their compassion; expertise and support throughout this difficult time.