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
Cindy Mercer
Dolly and Family
I’m so sorry to hear Brian had passed…dad and Brian always had a good friendship as well as you and the family…such a fun couple….I now live on the island in Qualicum Beach…just think similar paths huh?….I remember my dad having such great respect for Brian they were kinda similar perhaps that’s why they remained friends…Gary and I send our heart-felt condolences to you and the entire family.
May he rest in peace and hang out with my dad.
Dolly and the North Family,
Our heartfelt condolences for your loss. We will always have fond memories of Brian.
Dolly, Al and I are both saddened with the news of Brian’s passing. We have fond memories of numerous brunches in Yellowknife, laughs and drinks at the racquet club, a road trip in your van to go skiing and most recently a get together in Victoria for dinner at a lovely Italian restaurant. We enjoyed a visit by Brian on his own here in Yellowknife shortly after that and Al and he talked sports and we introduced him to a brandy laced vodka which he loved. We will keep these memories close to our hearts and in this time of sadness, remember that Brian’s life was made richer because of his love for you, the kids and grandkids. Take care Dolly.
Brian was a special person to us. He was a friend, a business partner for over 50 years and a person for whom I had tremendous respect. We have so many happy and joyful memories with he and Dolly.They were such a great couple. We will miss Brian in many ways,and extend to Dolly and the North family members our sincere condolences.
Dear Dolly, What a wonderful tribute you wrote for Brian. He never spoke about all he had accomplished & most would never know about the volunteering. He truly was an outstanding person and we will always remember & miss him. Love to you & the family.
Carol & Art
Our heartfealt condolences in the loss of a Yellowknifer in Brian North. He was a mentor to many who started out at CBC Yellowknife.
Thank you Brian for all your help. May you rest in eternal peace.