Through much strength and determination, it is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Brian George van Nostrand at St. Joseph's Hospital in Guelph on Sunday, October 6 in his 68th year.
He is survived by his loving wife, Kathryn Selves, his daughter, Brianna and son Jacob, father George and sister, Anne. He is remembered by his niece Carla and his nephew Ryan and their families and many extended family members and friends. Brian is predeceased by his mother Jean and stepmother Sheilah.
Brian attended the University of Guelph where he met his wife through the Mature Student Association. Following his BA in Geography (1990) he spent time working for the Town of Gravenhurst. He returned to school at Sir Sandford Fleming where he obtained his Geographic Information Systems technician (1994). He began his career in Guelph where he worked for the Departments of Engineering and Waterworks for the City of Guelph until he retired in October 2020.
Brian cherished his family and proud of his two children's many milestones. Specifically, when his son followed his grandfather's career to be a car mechanic and his daughter, obtaining her BA at the University of Guelph. He was the ying to his wife's yang. He supported his wife around home as well as her activities that she was passionate about. When around family and friends he had a wonderful and witty sense of humor taking one off guard when unexpected. Brian was most happy pursuing quiet activities. Relaxing at home or at the neighbor’s backyard where they enjoyed deep conversations on many issues with a beer, scotch or whiskey in hand. During many years of camping he was content hiking, canoeing and whittling detailed faces and small creatures out of wood. His eye for detail was remarkable. When at home he took his carving skills to another level designing wooden spreaders, spoons, salad tongs, beautiful wooden boxes and recently a side table for his wife's birthday.
In his retirement years he continued making items in his workshop, volunteered doing trail maintenance & updating the trail maps for the Guelph Hiking Trail Club. Doing trail maintenance continued for the Arboretum at the University of Guelph, along with setting up and taking down dance floor with his wife. He was a passionate reader, gardener, enjoyed listening to music, regular fitness and an avid fan of watching Formula 1 Grand Prix races.
In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A gathering to remember Brian will be held later. Family and friends are invited to remember Brian by taking a forest walk at the Arboretum on the Memorial Forest Open House Day held in September every year.
The family extends our gratitude to all the staff and volunteers at St. Joseph's Hospital, Guelph General Hospital and Hamilton General Hospital for their compassion care and kindness. The family is grateful for all the support that their families, friends and neighbours have provided throughout this journey.
Arrangements entrusted to WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL (519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com).
In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate your support to one of the organizations that Brian was passionate about The Guelph Hiking Trail Club, The Guelph Arboretum or Ontario Parks.
A tree will be planted in memory of Brian G. van Nostrand in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.