Brian Michael Everest passed away at Lady Minto Hospital on Salt Spring Island on January 12, 2009. He was 45 years old. Brian was diagnosed with acute leukemia in August 2008. He lived his illness with characteristic courage and grace, both of which deepened as he journeyed.
Brian was born on February 6, 1963, in Edmonton, Alberta. He was a master woodworker, cabinet maker and carpenter. He loved his work and he left the world with an incredible amount of beauty and soul. Those he worked with were treasured friends, colleagues, and mentors. So important to him were Lake O’Hara Lodge in the Rockies, Cam Mathieson in Nelson, and Hans Hazenboom on Salt Spring Island.
Brian leaves, as gifts to the world, four children: Hannah, Coleman, Louis and Sef, all of whom share in his kindness and artistry, his intelligence and wit.
Brian’s own father Wayne died in 1991. However, he leaves a large family to miss and remember him: his mother Louise, his stepfather Jim, siblings Allan, Dwight, Wendy, Charlie and Terri-Lou, and all their families. He loved you all.
Extended family and friends formed an intricate, strong and glorious web around him, especially through his illness. Brian was so moved by expressions of love and support and he was, as we are, deeply deeply grateful.
Special notes of thanks go to hospice workers Rajani, Elvira, and Mark, and to Dr. Barclay and the entire, wonderful, Lady Minto staff. Lynn and Mike were his beloved family, fellow artists, and spiritual friends. Their support and connection have been pivotal.
A memorial celebration was held at the Salt Spring Centre of Yoga on January 16, 2009. Many thanks to the Centre community.
It has been an honour to walk in the world with Brian these past 23 years, and a supreme blessing to love and be loved by him.
-Joanne
My work is to carry this love
as a comfort for those who long for you
to go everywhere you’ve walked
and gaze at the pressed-down dirt.
-Rumi