Brian Rigby, 52 years old, passed away suddenly on February 12, 2013. Brian was a strong believer in the power of family and lovingly leaves behind his wife Chara, his son Brett, his daughter Jenna, his brother Michael Rigby (and Shannon), his sister Claudia Fitchett (and Chris), his niece and nephew Carly and Adam Fitchett, and his brother Jamie Rigby, as well as a large extended family. Brian grew up in Victoria, a city he loved.
After completing his degree at the University of Victoria, where he met his wife, Brian began his teaching career in Japan, teaching junior high ESL for one year. Then he taught in North Vancouver for 4 years before moving to the Kootenays where he has taught in Nelson, Trail, and for many years, Castlegar. He was a sincere, hard-working teacher, one who strived to motivate his students to reach their full potential.
Brian felt compelled to stand up for justice and put his efforts towards helping students and teachers as vice-president of the Castlegar/Trail teacher’s union. He also enjoyed being part of the judicial council for teachers in the province who helped to resolve disputes.
Brian was always an unshakable rock of security and love, and one of his favorite ways to show it was by sharing one of his passions with his family: exploring the world. Travelling was one of the ways that Brian was best able to spend time solely with his family, and said his favorite part of travelling was “just standing back; making sure that his family was safe and watching them have fun.” Brian was exceptionally proud of his son Brett and his daughter Jenna.
Arrangements are under the direction of Thompson Funeral Service Ltd.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.thompsonfs.ca