It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Brian John Arlo North, age 78, at the VGH; with family by his side, this strong, beautiful man left this world.
Brian’s memory will be forever cherished by his loving wife Dolly; his children Dana (Dave), Darin, Michael (Bernadine) and Jacqueline; his grandchildren Max, Luke, Katrina, Trace, Vaida, Raven, Mike Jr, Chase (Taylor) and Kira; his great grandchildren CJ, Alex, Sapphire and Tanisha; his sister Danika and her family; his cousins, In-laws and many close friends.
Brian was born in Trenton, Ontario and spent his early years in Manitoba. His family moved to Inuvik, NWT where he completed high school. He attended UofA where he grew a love for media at their campus radio station. That sent him to Ryerson and a degree in Radio and Television Arts. His career began with CBC North and then he formed MacKenzie Media; bringing cable tv to Yellowknife. The business relationships formed then are strong friendships today.
In 1983 Brian and Dolly “retired” to Victoria, BC. His mother emphatically stating – you do NOT retire at 39!
Brian and Dolly loved to travel and embarked on many trips; pleasure, adventure and golf. A long-time member of the Victoria Golf Club, whether playing well or not, he loved golf.
He was passionate about movies and music. He never missed the Oscars; saw every nominated film and replicated Wolfgang Puck’s Academy menu for family and friends.
Brian’s greatest joy was spending time with his family. From grand events celebrating special occasions; to Hockey, Football games with Darin in Edmonton; or Dana and family in Vancouver; a rousing game of canasta with his nieces; or in true Jones tradition an impromptu game of 99 or up and down the river. He loved to make opportunities for us to gather together to create precious memories.
Brian was a strong man; loving, kind, compassionate and generous. He brightened any room with his beautiful smile, his laughter, love and joy. His life and presence was an absolute gift that we will all miss deeply and forever cherish.
Brian was predeceased by his parents Fred and Vivian North, his grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, niece, nephew and son-in-law.
Brian was a strong community supporter and gave much of his time volunteering to help enrich the lives of others. In lieu of flowers, please give of your time or make a donation to a charity of your choice.
A special thank you to the staff at Royal Jubilee Hospital and VGH for your care and support through this difficult time.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial gathering will be held at a later date.
Until we meet again Brian, We love you always
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
26 Responses
I remember Brian well. He was announcer/ operator at CBC Northern Service in Yellowknife when I arrived in 1972. Soon he left CBC North to form McKenzie Media and CABL-TV on 49 Street. He started CABL with programs recorded on audio tape, shipped to Yellowknife from a recording outfit in Edmonton (?). Later MacKenzie Media converted over to Satellite TV with Telesat Canada installing a large satellite dish on 50th Street. He and MacKenzie Media did well with CABL-TV. Rest in Peace Brian & condolences to his family.
To Dolly , Dana, Darin, Mike and your whole family we are so sad to hear of Brian’s passing. He was a great guy and we loved to hear his laugh and be in his company. Dolly I know this is a tough time for you and you had so many great memories with Brian keep those memories alive. He is with you in spirit. Our condolences Les and Irena Bryan
My thoughts are with you and your family Dana. I’m so sorry for your loss my dear friend. xo Urs
Dear Dolly:
Always enjoyed Brian’s company,and will miss him on the golf course and in the clubhouse.
Our sincere condolences to you and the family.
Peter and I send our heartfelt condolences to Dolly and family. Our time together in Yellowknife will always be in our fond memories.
Dolly and Family,
Brian was an amazing human being and a wonderful person. He loved you, Dolly and was good to his friends and family. We were very fortunate to have met Brian and shared some fun times together. He will be missed and remembered fondly.
Jim and Irene Moreshead
(Lucia’s sister and brother-in-law)
I am devastated but this news. I am so glad I got to see when I was in Victoria just a month ago. He was laughing and joking. I will miss him very much. Best wishes to you and Dolly.
Dana – My deepest sympathies to you and your family.
Sincere condolences to the family and friends of Brian. May you rest in Eternal Peace.
I am so very sorry Dana. My sincerest condolences