DENNIS KERRY BREARS

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DENNIS KERRY BREARS Dennis Kerry Brears, age 55, passed away after a short illness on August 13, 2018. The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thanks to the professionals and all the staff on the 3rd floor Grace Hospital. Dennis was born in Perth, Ontario to Dave and Beverly (Barr) Brears; he was the middle child, Garry being the oldest, Garth the youngest. Dennis grew up in Winnipeg living in Charleswood during his formative years, moving and working in Gull Harbour then onto Island Lake before returning back to Headingley. He was preceded by his mother Beverly Brears and sister-in-law Kim Brears. Dennis graduated from Oak Park High School after which he earned a Political Science degree from the University of Winnipeg. He had many gifts, none greater than a curious mind, a voracious appetite for reading, a brain that forgot little, the ability to apply what he learned, and a willingness to work hard. His natural abilities led him to operate Island Lake Lodge for many years. He loved his clients, whether they be fishermen flown in from corporate America, or a broad section of humanity staying at his lodge. He enjoyed listening, debating, telling stories and mostly laughing with each guest. After his two daughters were born, Teighan (2002) and Tori (2006), he left the north and spent the rest of his working life at McDonald Youth Services in Winnipeg. Dennis ran both the building / maintenance department and oversaw the IT department in a modernization phase. For fun Dennis golfed on and off at Breezy Bend with the family and friends and as the girls grew he spent many evenings attending their activities. Dennis cried very few times in his life, which made it difficult to see him in tears as he considered his beautiful daughters in his last few weeks, wishing he had done more for and with them, while also being as proud as any father could be of their achievements. Dennis recognized and loved their intelligence, quick wits, and innocence but, more than anything, he simply wished for them to be happy, now and forever. Dennis spent his life pushing the envelope and, with an edge, he always wanted to know more, rarely stopping to simply smell the roses. It was only most recently when, having been given the gift of knowing the end was near, did he allow himself time to consider the softer side of life. He, not unexpectedly, excelled, almost as if his brain was awash in possibilities - being vulnerable, talking about his feelings, expressing his long-buried burdens, he said it all. Dennis died at peace and in comfort. There will be a small family get-together but no Celebration of Life, per his wishes. He was eternally grateful for the support and outpouring of caring from his family, friends, and co-workers. In lieu of flowers, a small donation can be made at the Noventis Credit Union in the "Teighan and Tori Trust Fund" which will be used for their continuing education. Cheques can be sent to Teighan and Tori Trust, c/o Garry Brears, 21-6645 Roblin Blvd., Winnipeg, MB R3R 3S4. Condolences, pictures and videos may be left on his tribute wall at www.gilbartfuneralhome.com Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 18, 2018