Brian passed away peacefully at home after a lengthy struggle with Parkinson’s Disease. Predeceased by his parents Doris and Alf Botten. Survived by his wife and best friend JoAnne , sister Dianne (Larry) Cross, brother Russ (Elena), nephew Graham (Tamara) Cross, niece Jocelyn (Scott) Remillard, great nephew Pascal and great niece Sienna, sister-in-law Marlene (Andy) Anson and many cousins and long time friends. Brian was born and raised in Victoria and graduated from Vic High in 1963.
He attended BCIT and completed his training as a machinist, then worked at VMD, Yarrows and Dockyard. Brian’s pride and joy was building their 42’ sailboat Airloom. They embraced the live aboard lifestyle for many years and sailed the Gulf Islands, San Juans and Desolation Sound. He was a master craftsman, loved vintage cars, jazz and blues, good food and travelling. One of the most memorable trips was sailing in French Polynesia with Jim and Penny. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Ken Smith
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Gloria Lorenzen I was deeply saddened by the passing of Brian. My deepest condolences to JoAnne and all his family. Kind and worldly wise, Brian would listen to ideas with a wry twinkle in his eye and a slight smile. He generously shared back. I know he was deeply loved and his life made a great difference to many in this world.
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Don Hiscock I remember when I was a pre schooler, cousin Brian would come and stay with us every once in a while. I latched on to him like a big brother.
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Ruth Ferne JoAnne, I was so sorry to read of Brian’s recent passing. My sincere sympathy to you and Brian’s family.
Ruth
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Fran Harper We enjoyed many memorable times with Brian during our 50 year friendship. We’ll always think of him on Christmas Eve and remember the many, many years JoAnne and Brian came for dinner and enjoyed seafood soup (always even better than last year!) and chocolate marble cheesecake. Brian was a true gentleman and will be greatly missed.
Fran and Jack Harper
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Kenneth Bartlett JoAnne, So sorry for your loss. I know so well that empty feeling. That void will get filled very slowly but will heal. Take care, KenB
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Sid and Joni Custance We were saddened to hear of Brian’s passing. He was a wonderful person and a great friend. When I think of Brian, I always remember when our gang went to the very first Nanaimo Bathtub races. A wild weekend. Our best wishes to Joanne and family.
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Jocelyn Remillard My Uncle Bri was a quiet man with strong values and a wonderful sense of humour. So brave until the end.
Thank you for so beautifully capturing his life, JoAnne. ❤
I mourn his passing, but I am glad he is at peace. Hugs.
Brian was a great friend and mentor at when we worked at the Dockyard, we worked as partners and enjpyed many great laughs together and told many stories, some of which were true. Brian was greatly respected and liked by all his workmates. His skills and patience were renowned.
Many good times were spent on boats with Brian and Joanne.
I am very sad to hear of his passing, we will miss him.