Merkley, Brian R.
Jan 10, 1948 – Jan 3, 2012
Our beloved Brian passed away on Tuesday Jan 3, 2012 at the age of 63.
This admirable, trustworthy and reliable man will forever be in the hearts and memories of the love of his life of 42 years Darlene. Also missing him are his children, son Jamie and daughter Samantha Marsel (Andy). Papa left a beautiful legacy in his treasured grandchildren; Tanaya (16), Kalli (14), Tyson (12) and Jessica (16). Brian is remembered by brothers Ken (Bernadette), Reg (Helga) and sisters Debbie (Willy), Laura (Dale), Rozanne (Joe) and Tammi (Bill). Predeceased by the same disease that took his life, cancer, was his mother Virgie in 1972. Also predeceased by his father Max in 2002.
Brian was born in High Prairie, Alberta and spent his childhood years in Widewater, Alberta. It was there that he met his wife Darlene. They moved to B.C., first to Fraser Lake in 1968, then to Fort St. James in 1970. There he worked for 24 years at Apollo Forest Products eventually becoming the manager. Brian and Darlene moved on to Houston, B.C. where Brian ran Houston Forest Products until his retirement from the forest industry. He thoroughly enjoyed fishing in the Morice, Bulkley, and Babine Rivers. He was an avid hunter who spent much time hunting all over Western Canada and Montana. He especially enjoyed his safaris to Africa in 1986 and 1992.
In 2001 they moved to Okanagan Falls to be closer to family. Moving to the Okanagan gave him special times with his grandchildren and allowed him to teach Tyson about nature and the outdoors. During this time Brian started Sandstone Landscaping Supplies in Penticton, worked in the family vineyard in Oliver and planted a vineyard in Cawston. He also enjoyed curling, a glass of Okanagan wine with friends, and lending a hand wherever it was needed. Brian loved his cruise to Alaska with his family in May 2011 as he knew it would be his last. Brian was a quiet, gentle soul who will be deeply missed by us all.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for all the kindness they have received during this very difficult time. At his request, his ashes will be spread at a favourite fishing spot. In lieu of flowers donations gratefully accepted to the Penticton & District Palliative Care Program 1701 Government St. Penticton B.C. V2A-8J7 in Brian’s name. Condolences may be sent to marsel@telus.net. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Oliver Curling Club 7535 362 Avenue, Oliver, B.C. on Friday January 13th at 4:00 pm.
Arrangements entrusted to Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service, Oliver & Osoyoos, BC.