Brian Wesley Smith

It is with great sadness that the family of Brian Wesley Smith announces his sudden passing at 64 years of age. He died of a heart attack on January 23, 2021 at his home in Vernon, BC. Brian will be lovingly remembered by his mother Alice Smith, younger brother Don Smith, sister-in-law Liz Smith and his nephew and niece, Matthew and Laura Smith. Brian will never be forgotten by his friend and former wife Brenda Lyons and the two children they raised together, son Zachary Rensby and daughter Tess Rensby. Brian was predeceased by his father, Bob Smith. He will also be remembered by his extended family, friends and colleagues.

Brian was born on May 22, 1956 in New Westminster, BC and lived in Ontario and Connecticut while growing up. He graduated from Queen’s University in Kingston, ON with a BSc in Mining Engineering. He moved west and began a successful career in the mining industry. He spent most of his career at Luscar Ltd in Estevan, SK and retired in 2015. He will be remembered by his colleagues as an extremely hard worker and a caring and compassionate leader. In 2018 Brian moved to Vernon, BC to help care for his mother.

Brian was steadfast in his devotion to family and his community. He was a passionate baseball coach, synchronized swimming coach and referee, football official, and supporter of the arts and local school community. He spent significant time volunteering for numerous local building projects, including baseball buildings, football fields and infrastructure, a state-of-the-art track and field complex, and the first Habitat for Humanity build in Estevan.

Brian was honoured and proud to have served as co-chair of the Estevan 2016 Saskatchewan Summer Games. Three years of organization and hard work culminated in a ‘once in a lifetime experience’ for 1,800 athletes and the city of Estevan. Anyone in Estevan who swings a bat, makes a tackle, runs a lap on the track or works to perfect a synchro ballet leg, is able to do so, in part, because of Brian’s contributions.

After moving to Vernon, Brian had time to enjoy other activities including hiking, kayaking and snow shoeing. He was anxious to continue volunteering but CV19 restrictions resulted in the cancellation of many events. He loved building intricate model ships, often donating them to charity auctions. He also loved reading, music and learning. Family and friends were often treated to his homemade, creatively decorated cakes.

Brian put the needs and happiness of his family and others before his own. He enjoyed being part of the kid’s activities and events, large or small. He was always there to support and cheer them on, their number one fan. He will be remembered as a generous, good natured, amazing man. He was a quiet hero who had a huge impact on many lives. He was the best son, father, brother and uncle we could have wished for. He will be forever missed.

Due to the ongoing pandemic, a private Celebration of Life will be held for Brian’s immediate family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Brian’s memory to the United Way of choice or the Heart and Stroke Foundation.