Obituary of Brian Richard Newman

Brian Newman 1945 - 2017 On Tuesday, January 31, 2017, at the age of 71, Brian passed peacefully with his family by his side. He was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Edith; brother-in-law, Keith Nelson; and nephew, Robert Newman. He will be lovingly remembered and thought of dearly by his family and friends. Brian is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Patricia; three children, Kimberly (Shawn) Gusway, Jake (Natalia), and Leahanne Newman; grandchildren Shawnelle Gusway and Dunigan (Kayla), Jaya, and Emmalise Newman; his sister, Jean Nelson; his brothers, Robert (Jeanette) and Charles (Kathy); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. Brian Richard Newman was born on February 27, 1945 in Regina, SK. He was crowned the accordion champion of Saskatchewan in the late 1950s. He was a member of the Laird Gym, taking part in boxing and wrestling events. Throughout his life, Brian was active within the sales community and was a member of the ACT. His extracurricular activities included playing Old Timers’ hockey, curling, and refereeing kids’ hockey games. Brian played saxophone in a band called The Typhoons when he met the love of his life, Patricia, and they were married in October 1964. Their first child was born in 1966 and their family grew by two more in 1972 and 1973. Over the years, their little family made happy memories together, many of which included spending time at Regina Beach and taking family trips. Brian’s good natured sense of humour was his defining attribute. He always had a smile on his face and a joke to tell. His laugh was boisterous and contagious. Brian was kind to everyone he met. His hugs were warm and comforting. He put everyone’s needs before his own and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Even on his sickest days, he was more concerned about the feelings of others and his sense of humour stuck with him. Brian loved polka music, playing crib, and betting on the horse races. He loved fiercely - his family meant the world to him and the lights of Brian’s life were his grandchildren. Brian was truly a ray of sunshine, spreading love and happiness to whomever he was with. As they say at the racetrack, “gotta go now, folks - it’s post-time”. The family would like to thank the Pasqua Hospital palliative care staff and volunteers, as well as Dr. Patel and Dr. Janowitz for their compassionate care of Brian. Donations may be made in Brian’s memory to the Lung Association of Saskatchewan. A private memorial for Brian will be held at a later date.