BRIAN HUNTER

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BRIAN HUNTER It is with great sadness to announce the peaceful passing of Brian Hunter, with family by his side, on March 11, 2019. A father, grandfather, brother and friend to many. Brian was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland on August 8, 1944 to Robert (Bobby) [deceased] and Margaret Hunter [deceased]. Brian met the love of his life, Ann, on March 7, 1961 at the University Youth Club in Belfast and were married on July 5 the following year. Shortly after, Brian enlisted as a Gunner in the Royal Artillery on July 17, 1962 and was stationed at the 50th Missile Regiment in Menden, Germany during the Cold War for the next six years before returning to Belfast. His adventures from his time in the army would regularly serve as a backdrop in countless stories that would captivate anyone who was lucky enough to be within earshot. His ability to tell a story was truly an art, and would frequently have family and friends in stitches as he spoke. His sharp recollection of details would never fail to amaze. Brian and Ann, along with their four sons, moved to Winnipeg, Canada in April of 1977 seeking a better life for his family. Shortly after his arrival, Brian joined the Canadian National Railway (CNR) and continued working there from 1977 until his retirement in 2004. Not being one to sit still, Brian worked as a school bus driver in his retirement - a task he would look forward to each day as the kids he picked up and dropped off brought him great joy. In turn the kids had a very likeable and entertaining driver - a true Irish ambassador; Brian represented his home country with pride in almost everything he did. Brian was involved in volunteering and dedicated himself to activities associated with the Irish community in Winnipeg, and eventually served as president of the Winnipeg Irish Association, as well as being deeply involved in Folklorama. Although separated for years and many miles, Brian kept in touch with life-long friends from his birthplace - Geordie Kidd, Joannie and Geordie Ferris back "home" in Belfast, and David O'Neill in Tipperary. Brian had a love of soccer and later in life would regularly talk about the world cup and international matches with his friend Walter in Calgary. He also looked forward to his coffees with the two Gerry's in Winnipeg. His stories, his passion, and his sense of humour will be missed by all. Brian leaves behind his wife Ann, sons, Robert (Wen), Brian, Kevin (Natalie) and Mark (Stacey), as well as grandchildren, Annalisa, Caiden, Erik and Riley. His wish was to be here for his children and grandchildren longer. He will be forever cherished in their memory. We're all quite sure that today he's looking down, saying to friends and family who remain, "Auch ... have a wee drink!" Brian and his family wanted to extend thanks to the wonderful doctors, nurses and staff at Riverview Health Centre during Brian's final days - especially Tony, Olla and Ruby. They would also like to send a special thank you to Richard at Palliative Care and both Dr. Thomas and Dr. Czaykowski while Brian was under their care. A service for Brian will be held on Wednesday, March 20, 2019 at 10:00 a.m., at the Transcona Memorial United Church, 209 Yale Avenue West. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society in Brian's memory. E.J. Coutu & Co. Funeral Directors 204-253-5086 www.ejcoutu.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 16, 2019