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Brian Douglas Bourdeau
June 27, 1949 – July 16, 2025
A good man.
Death is often not dignified, but in keeping with the way he lived, Brian left this world on July 16th, 10:35 PM with the utmost dignity.
He will always be loved and remembered by his soulmate, Brenda, his boys, Tony (Crystal), Tobias (Cara), and Micah (Trudy), his grandchildren, Rowan Azure, Noë, Ayden, Maddox, Mary- Maria, Finley, and Declan, and his faithful puppy, Billie.
Brian will be greatly missed by his sisters, Kathy (Cor) Vanbommel and Annette (David) Riley; he cherished these relationships deeply and was proud to be their brother. Brian’s passing follows that of his mother, Lois (Law) Bourdeau, younger sister, Mary Lee Tew, and his grandparents, who felt like home to him, Beatrice and Truman Law.
Brian was also loved by his in-laws, Barb (Bob) Everett, Betty (Grant) Smith, Bob (Minetta) Wilmott, Janet (Jarvis) Cook, Margie (Johnny) Zruna, Judy (Bob) Forsyth, John (Kathryn) Wilmott, June (Kevin) Machacek, who were proud to call him family. He was blessed with many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will all miss him dearly.
In his work life, Brian started with nothing other than a tireless work ethic, innate skill and intelligence, and a desire to support his family. Over the years he forged a path, leaving his unique mark of innovation at every stop. By the end of his career, he had become one of the most well respected individuals in the fireplace industry throughout Canada and the United States.
After retiring, Brian focused on his family and building his forever home. He found his place in Strathroy and built a beautiful sanctuary for himself and Brenda. When he wasn’t helping his sons and grandchildren, he could be found on his back deck, enjoying a cigar and glass of wine while watching the birds.
His truest passion was his family and being the best husband, father, and grandfather. He took Brenda on many adventures through their 58 years together, partners in everything since 15 years old. He was committed to his sons, helping them set up their own lives and homes and families. If his grandchildren dreamed something, he helped them make it real. He instilled a feeling of curiosity, joy, and comfort in each of them.
Brian was an enthusiastic conversationalist, a big personality, and had strong convictions. He loved good wine, good food, good music, and dancing. He developed many enduring friendships throughout his life and was forever glad to laugh with and care for so many people.
Throughout it all, Brian lived with love and empathy for all, and a sense of wonder about the world, and even in his last days repeated a common mantra,
“The world is a beautiful place. Don’t forget that. Ever.”
Words are not enough to express the impact he has had on us, the amount he has loved us, and how much he will be missed.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia, on Monday, July 28, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.
Sympathy may be expressed through donations to Operation Smile (operationsmile.ca) or Strathroy Hospice (strathroyhospice.com) (cheques only at the funeral home please).
