International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers
           7418 6th Street, Burnaby, B.C. V3N 3L6  Tel: (604) 522-3991 Fax:(604) 522-7844  

Brian was a long-serving Directing Business Representative of Northwest District 250 in Vancouver, British Columbia. Brian retired in January 2005 after serving the membership of Local 692 and District 250 for over 25 years. Formerly a Journeyman Mechanic from Finning, Brian was a tireless bulldog who fought for working people throughout his life. He maintained  Rock Solid Union principals in the face of endless challenges, often sacrificing his personal time and his family life in service of bettering the work lives of those he served.

All of us who have served alongside our Brother will remember him as a determined and witty and strong leader. He had a great sense of humour and could turn a phrase like no other Union Rep before or since. Brian worked with many of the Business Representatives and Shop Stewards and Union members throughout our organization. Many of us who apprenticed under him owe a great debt of gratitude for the training we received.

Brian had faced various medical challenges over recent years, and suffered a stroke during the past week. He was hospitalized and had been under care at Surrey Memorial Hospital when he experienced another stroke and passed away at 7:00 PM on May 15, 2008.

Go in peace, brother. We thank you for the strength of your example and for the thousand wonderful memories. Stay Rock Solid, always.

On behalf of the officers, staff, representatives, and membership of Machinists District 250,

Stan Pickthall
Directing Business Representative

(A Memorial Service will be held on Friday May 23rd, at 2:00p.m. at Fraser Heights Chapel, 14835 Fraser Hwy, Surrey, BC. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke or
Diabetes Foundations).