Brian Alexander Dokuchie
May 30, 1953 – May 19, 2024
It is with overwhelming sadness that the family of Brian Alexander Dokuchie announce his unexpected passing on May 19, 2024 at the age of 70.
Brian was born in Fort Frances, Ontario to Myrtle and Alexander Dokuchie but shortly after his birth the entire family moved to Kenora, Ontario where he remained the rest of his beautiful life. Brian was the fourth born and first-born son of eight children.
Brian’s journey in the automotive business began in his youth, as he started working side by side with his father for the family business Al’s Auto Wrecking at their East Highway home. Brian later embarked on a new chapter at Tyrrell’s Auto Glass. Brian stayed until he faced a life altering burn accident that left him unable to return; however, with Brian’s hard-working nature and inability to stay idle, he found himself working lastly for Doug Lafreniere, until he was forced into an early retirement due to illness.
Brian enjoyed many hobbies including fishing, camping, woodworking, and all things carpentry. He was full to the brim with knowledge through all of his life experiences and could fix or build anything no matter how he put things together.
Although Brian had many reasons to be less than optimistic, he didn’t demonstrate anything but strength and gentleness. He was proud of his children and grandchildren. Though distance and circumstance may have limited time with some of them, his love for each of them knew no bounds. His family and friends will hold dear the many loving memories of the affectionate, funny, and quick-witted man he will always be. Brian’s love language was found in the smiles and laughter of others.
Brian was a humble, simple man and was always available to lend a hand whenever asked. There were never a shortage of phone calls asking him for advice, or for his help to install, renovate, or build something. Brian did these projects without objection, but never without pork rinds tucked into his tool belt ready to be shared. He rarely declined helping someone, even when his body was weary; which is how he spent his last morning Earth side.
Throughout the course of his life, Brian forged many deep and lasting friendships. Over decades and plenty of beer, alongside his lifelong pals – John Kozak, Randy Hager, Louis Beaudry, John Hayberg, Dave Kearney, Murray Walters and Ron Engstrom; Brian perfected the art of finding trouble and joy in equal measure. Whether at Smoke and Fish Derbies, roaring car races, or simply sitting in a garage, they proved that good times were meant to be shared.
Brian will be greatly missed by his long-time partner Brenda. He will forever remain in the hearts of his children; Philip (Michelle), Danielle (Mark), Lindsay (Gord), Cassidy (Mike), Makenna (Tyrone) and Kimmie. He held an enduring love for each of his grandchildren; Eli, Noah, Moia, Malin, Remi, Ava, Brixton, and Miller. Brian leaves to mourn all seven of his siblings; Barbara Novak (Mike), Bonnie Dokuchie (Randy), Marlene Kearney, Lorne Dokuchie (Annette), Randy Dokuchie, Rob Dokuchie (Megan) and Ben Dokuchie (Sarah). He is survived by eighteen nieces and nephews, along with numerous other relatives. Brian is also survived by the mothers of his children, Linda Johnson and Kelly Carver.
Brian is predeceased by his father and mother. Surprisingly, his mother also died on May 19th, fourteen years prior. Maybe, just maybe she was there as a beacon of light to carry her son home.
Brian leaves us with an incredible legacy of love, laughter, patience, and regular reminders of what is truly important. His absence will leave an enormous hole in all of our hearts, but his spirit will live on in the laughter and memories he leaves behind in all those who knew and love him.
At Brian’s request, cremation has taken place.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday July 6th, 2024. Family and friends are invited to share photographs and happy memories to celebrate Brian’s life in the way he would want to be remembered – as a funny, loving man. Interment will begin at 11:00 a.m. July 6th, 2024 at Lake of the Woods Cemetery with a luncheon to follow at Brewers Village located at 1415 Valley Drive, Kenora, ON.
In lieu of flowers, you may donate to the charity of your choice in Brian’s name.
The family would like to give a special thanks to Kenora Emergency Services who attended the scene, as well as to the doctors and nurses at Lake of the Woods District Hospital for their efforts and compassion.