- Brandon Sun Passages
- All Titles
Search:
Notices are posted by 10 am Monday through Saturday
BRIAN DOUGLAS THORKELSON
Date of Passing: Jul 16, 2024
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryBRIAN DOUGLAS THORKELSON
On July 16, 2024, Brian Thorkelson, known to friends as 'Thork', passed away peacefully at the age of 88. Brian was born in Morden and lived his teen years in Virden. He was the youngest child of Karl and Rose Thorkelson with sister Shirley and brother Grahame. Brian attended Brandon University where he completed his BSc and Education degrees. He began his teaching career in 1959 where he taught at Earl Haig, Harrison, Neelin High School and finally Vincent Massey High School. In 1962, he met Heather and they fell in love. They went on their first date in the fall and were engaged that New Year's Eve.
Brian was a dedicated math teacher at Vincent Massey for over 30 years. He also had many interests and hobbies such as golf, camping, curling, growing his own flowers for the yard, working on his computer, and going for coffee with friends; but he was most passionate about his music. He played the saxophone, clarinet, piano, and other instruments. Over the years he played in many bands including Virden Nighthawks, Syncopators, Jonny Bering, Brandon Intergenerational Band, and the Retreads, where he especially loved jazz and Big Band music. In his retirement years, he and Heather escaped the cold and spent their winters at Pine to Palm in Weslaco, Texas, where he played with five bands and enjoyed the park activities. Brian was also heavily involved in the Kinsmen Club, is a Life Member, and was very proud of the work the club did in Brandon and Area.
For the past two and a half years, Brian resided at Hillcrest Personal Care Home. The family would like to thank them for their excellent care during this time.
Brian is predeceased by his mother, father, brother, sister, and many good friends. Left to mourn are his wife, Heather, his son Paul, his daughter, Carla (Lee Ransom), and grandchildren Carson, Layne and Josh Ransom. We will miss you Papa.
A celebration of Life was held at Memories Chapel on Wednesday, July 24, 2024.
As published in Brandon Sun on Jul 27, 2024, Jul 27, 2024
Condolences & Memories (1 entries)
-
Heather and family....Sending heartfelt condolences on your loss. We have great memories of having being entertained by Brian and his amazing musical talent when we were were at Pine to Palm. Also enjoyed seeing your 50th anniversary pictures (fitting the same dress as when you were married). Cherish the good memories. - Posted by: Linda and Rob Freeman (acquaintance) on: Jul 27, 2024