Brian Nickolas Wayne Marchinko

1948 - 2014

Brian Nickolas Wayne Marchinko obituary, 1948-2014, Chilliwack, BC

BORN

1948

DIED

2014

FUNERAL HOME

Henderson's Funeral Homes & Crematorium

45901 Victoria Ave

Chilliwack, British Columbia

Brian Marchinko Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on May 14, 2014.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected death of Brian Marchinko on May 12, 2014. He passed away peacefully while asleep at his home in Chilliwack, BC. Brian enjoyed a career in professional hockey, playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs and the New York Islanders prior to joining the CN Railway in the 1970's. He retired in 2009, working summers with the Rocky Mountaineer and spending winters golfing in Palm Springs with family and friends.

He will be missed dearly by his wife, Bonnie, their two children, Melissa (Andy Westmark) and Kerry (Julie Tyas), his parents, Nick and Victoria and his brother Randy (Bonnie Berry). He was also survived by his mother and father in-law (Lorne and Pauline Dagert), brothers in-law Ron (Wendy), Lorne (Pam), sister in-law Traci (Rob) and numerous nieces and nephews.

His passion for life and the mischievous twinkle in his eye will live on in his four grandchildren, who he adored and was so very proud of: Colton (19), Dayton (12), Jeannie (2) and Sascha (6m). Arrangements under the direction of Henderson's Funeral Homes & Crematorium Ltd., Chilliwack, British Columbia.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate small donations towards installing a memorial bench on the Vedder River, where Brian loved to walk.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Brian Marchinko

What is your first memory of Brian?

Share a favorite memory you have of Brian.

Tell us about a special moment you shared with Brian.

Describe a time when Brian made you laugh or smile.

What is something you will always remember about Brian?

Talk about a shared experience you had with Brian.

What is something you did together that you enjoyed?

Describe a place or activity that reminds you of Brian.

Tell us about a personal story or anecdote involving Brian.

What is something you learned from Brian?

Not sure what to say?

41 Entries

June 8, 2015

Hi Bonnie... hard to believe its been over a year now. I think about him often as I drive the Rocky down the Canyon. We had such good times at work...building a dream...doda.. Blessings to you and your family....Dave

October 15, 2014

Bonnie Marchinko

I cannot thank you all enough for the kind words you left for us, your descriptions of Brian make me chuckle, you all shared a great man with my children and I and we were glad to share him. He had enough humor and positive attitude for all. We miss him dearly every day, are doing our best to carry on with our tears and our laughter,thanks to all of you! Bonnie Marchinko and family

September 12, 2014

Gerry Petryk

Played hockey with Brian in Flin Flon in 1968-1969 and he was one of the guys on the team that I really liked. He had a great sense of humour and treated everybody really great./Gerry Petryk

September 3, 2014

Bonnie
So sorry to hear of Brian's passing. Our sympathy goes out to all of your family. I hope that as time passes, your sorrow is replaced by wonderful memories of your time together.
Please call if you are ever out our way
Lylamay and Michael Coghlan Ladysmith B.C.

July 28, 2014

Phil McCann

Bonnie, I'm Phil McCann and played with the Erie Blades and remember the '76 training camp and spendiny time with Brian. I always enjoyed being around Brian and cherish these memories. Best to you and family.

May 27, 2014

greg clemens

we are sorry to hear of the passing of brian,he was the trainmaster in McLennan ab. worked for him,grat leader,he also coached the Donnelly senior team in the nphl and I played for him,what a great person he was,so joan and I are very sad to hear this news,take care and remember the memories,our thoughts are with you and your family.

May 25, 2014

Brian was our next door neighbor.We often chatted from deck to deck. He was a very humble man, & the best neighbor we ever had.
We were saddened & heartbroken to hear of his sudden passing @ such a young age. We offer our profound heartfelt condolences to Bonnie & family.We hope the past great memories will ease the present pain. Warm regards, Will & Ethel Schacher.

May 23, 2014

hubert plante

remembering the good times on road trips with you and bonnie when our boys played minor hockey together.you did'nt deserve the[short call] brian but knowing you,you're already booked on and scooped the rest of us....

May 20, 2014

Corey Myer

When Brian and I first met in the Alberta North, we got along right away...as it was for all that Brian met. A gentleman and a terrific guy. So sorry for the loss of a great person. He will be remembered.

May 20, 2014

Many years, on and off, passed working with Brian. He always considered others ideas and never seemed to get annoyed. His habit of not writing things down resulted in a few minor issues. He seemed to delight in observing the passing world. The time with Rocky thusly was a very good fit for him. We always peered to see if he was on the passing train. He got a kick out of seeing his old mates waving. News of his passing was saddening and surprising. We send feelings of sympathy to his family. Godspeed Brian. Love Leon

May 20, 2014

Greg Cronkright

I am truly sorry for you loss. I had a lot of fun with Brian both at work and the golf course.

May 20, 2014

Ken King

As one locomotive engineer, who acknowledges another engineer's 'final run to Glory' .. I had the utmost respect and admiration for Brian, as a railroader, mentor, supervisor .. and above all else - a great person. Never had the opportunity to acquaint myself with Brian's family, but I do offer my most sincere condolences to his loved ones, and many friends. Godspeed and 'clear signals' to Heaven, Brother ..

May 20, 2014

Lindsay Struve

Dear Bonnie, Kerry, Mellissa and family.
Our thoughts are with you. Brian was a great person, with humour and wisdom he was well respected by his peers. I will always remember his sage advice on the state of the railroad, how to change an impellor on a boat, (make sure it is right side up)and what to do with a swish barrell. Brian will be sorely missed, we will cherish the memory. Condolences Lindsay and Cathy

May 20, 2014

Bonnie, Kerry, Mellisa:
I'm very sorry for your loss, Brian was a good friend. We worked with each other for almost 40 years, I will miss him and his smile greatly.
He was one of the most respected supervisors and co-workers I have known.
Thanks for sharing him with us.
Renny Apps

May 19, 2014

Tom Knight

We are sorry to hear of Brian's passing.Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time!! Tom and Darcia Knight (Cranberry Portage,Mb.)

May 19, 2014

Rick &Robyn Maze

Bonnie and family..
Our sympathies on the passing of Brian.I had the pleasure of working beside Brian for a few years in Edmonton.He was an inspiring and personable man with whom you could find few faults. Brian was a leader,mentor and my friend.One cannot help but smile when Brian's name came up in conversation.

May 19, 2014

Jim & Walene Young

We are so sorry to hear about Brian. Our thoughts are with you and your family.

May 18, 2014

Bill & Sandy Archer

Dear Bonnie & Family, we are so very sorry to hear of Brian's passing. Our caring thoughts and prayers are with you all. Our memory of Brian will always be his positive attitude and his chuckle.

May 18, 2014

Randy Marchinko

Dear Brother, mentor, role model, and hero. We will miss you more than words can ever say. I hope and pray that one day we will meet again. The effect you had on so many people and the numbers that have been deeply saddened by your leaving is a wonderful testimonial to the kind of person you were throughout your life.
We'll love you forever.
Randy, Bonnie, Paul, and Elan

May 18, 2014

Roger Worsfold

Dear Bonnie and Family. What a shock to learn of Brian's passing. I had the privilege of working with Brian at CN, his sense of humour, positive attitude and always “building a dream” will be sadly missed. My thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.

May 18, 2014

Bonnie. I was so sorry to hear about Brian. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Sandy Chiupka , Palm Desert

May 18, 2014

Kerry and Julie
Our thoughts go out to you and your family
What a huge loss for you and your children
We love you and are here if you need anything
Love Vanessa and Wade

May 18, 2014

Dear Bonnie and Family, our thoughts and prayers are with you. Along with the twinkle in his eye one of Brian's favourite sayings was "I had a hoot." He was truly an enjoyment to be around at work and otherwise. God Bless, he will forever be in our memories. Ken and Marion Sherman,(St. Albert)

May 17, 2014

Bonnie and Family, I'm sorry for your loss. I feel well rewarded having spent time with Brian at work as well as on the golf course in Palm Desert Ca. That laugh, that stare, that person, will never be forgotten. What a privilege it was sharing time with him. Thanks Brian Rick & Anne Jordan
Victoria B.C.

May 17, 2014

Ken & Pat Brosinsky

Grief can be so hard,but our special memories help us cope. Remembering the good times with you and your family in Kamloops BC. We will always cherish these memories.

Ken,Pat,Jackie & Karen

May 17, 2014

Trevor Wilson

We are deeply saddened and shocked over Brian's sudden but peaceful passing. He was such a proud father and grand father. He was such a long-time good friend and railroader. We had many good times at work and on the golf courses. We extend our deepest sympathy to Bonnie and family for your deep loss.

Trevor & Eileen Wilson

May 16, 2014

Maung Tin

May the Almighty God grant peace to the departed soul in Paradise.

Maung Tin and family

May 16, 2014

Fran Peshev

Bonnie, Melissa, Kerry and family, I'm so very sorry for your loss. I worked with Brian in Edmonton and consider my time working with him and Terry Chupa some of my most enjoyable years at CN (what a team those two were). He was a true gentleman with an amazing sense of humor. He was well respected by all his peers and co-workers, one of the best Trainmasters we had! I'm sure you know how much he loved you, his family, especially his grandchildren were very important to him, and he spoke about them often. My thoughts and prayers are with you all, during this difficult time. I will remember him fondly.

May 16, 2014

Debbie Otteson

Bonnie and family,

So sorry for you loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.

Debbie (Leach) and Denis Otteson

May 16, 2014

Bill Barber

Bonnie, Melissa and Kerry - I was surprized and sadden in hearing of Brian's passing. While it sounds like he went without any pain, still such a shock and so sad. I have know Brian for years and what a great person, always positive and as he said, "living life". He will be missed by all he touched.

May 16, 2014

Steve & Anna Skwaruk

My husband and I both worked with Brian for many, many years at CN. We all knew wherever Brian went, surely mischief and a funny story would follow. He was missed when he retired from CN, but we knew his zest for life wouldn't slow him down. Sincerest condolences to all.

May 16, 2014

Rick Barry

I'm very sorry for your lost, I had the pleasure to work with Brian earily in my career at CN, and as always he was a gentlemen and a scholar. I haven't had a chance to talk to him in about two years, but consider him a friend and colleague.
Brian you always treated people with dignity and respect, you will be missed by all who's lifes you touched.
With a sadden heart.
Rick Barry

May 15, 2014

Cheryl & Byrne Montgomery

Bonnie, Melissa, Kerry and families we are so sorry to hear about Brian. We have many fond memories of him and his infectious smile. He will be missed by all of us. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

May 15, 2014

Brooke & Sophie Ruskin

Knowing and working with Brian for the last several years at CRC has been a pleasure. We sometimes only meet a person like this once in a lifetime. Words don't express the sadness we all feel and Brian's warmth and kindness will live on with us forever. Sincere condolences to all of you on this tragic loss. The world is a lesser place without Brian's presence.

May 15, 2014

Greg Gordon

Very sorry to learn of Brian's passing. He was one of the best, either as a supervisor with CN or a coworker at the Rocky. Always smiling and willing to listen.

May 15, 2014

Peter Ballachey

Bonnie and family -

I knew Brian through his work with The Rocky Mountaineer, through CRC Rail, these past six years. He was one of our company's prime locomotive engineers, respected and admired by all of us. We deeply feel our loss on his passing. I express my sincere condolences to you and your children, and offer my sympathies at this difficult time.

Sincerely,

May 15, 2014

Dave Foster

Bonnie, Melissa, Kerry and Family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Brian was one of a kind. His upbeat nature and "Building a Dream" comments, enhanced the workplace for all those that shared it with him. The past 5 years with Brian on the Rocky Mountaineer have been the best railway years of my life thanks to Brian. He will be missed.

May 15, 2014

Rick Robinson

Mrs. Marchinko and Family, sadden to hear of Brians passing, he was a great soldier at work, not too much phased Brian, he was always "Building the Dream" as he would say.
Condolences to the Marchinko family on behalf on his friends at CN.

May 15, 2014

Doug & Joan Buchta

Bonnie, Melissa, Kerry & Family:
We are so saddened to learn of Brian's sudden passing. Know our thoughts and prayers are with you.

May 15, 2014

Marlene (Sullivan) Titus

Bonnie and family - shocked and saddened to hear of Brian's passing. He was a lovely man and a true gentleman. I have so many fond memories of our families spending time together. My thoughts are with you, Bonnie, Kerry, Melissa and families. Hold each other close as you mourn the loss of a wonderful husband, father, Grampie and friend.

May 15, 2014

Bob & Joanne Vanderaegen

Bonnie, Melissa, Kerry and family we are so sorry to hear of Brian's passing. Please accept our deepest condolences.

Bob, Joanne, Tracey, Troy and our fanily

Showing 1 - 41 of 41 results

Make a Donation
in Brian Marchinko's name

Memorial Events
for Brian Marchinko

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Henderson's Funeral Homes & Crematorium

45901 Victoria Ave, Chilliwack, BC V2P2S9

How to support Brian's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Brian Marchinko's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more