Brian Joseph Cormier

Brian Joseph Cormier, 78, of Toronto, Ontario, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2025, following a courageous battle with cancer. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, brother-in-law, and friend, Brian faced his illness with unwavering strength, optimism, and grace. He touched the lives of all who knew him with his humour, generosity, and love for life. Born on April 30, 1947, in Sydney, Nova Scotia, to George and Rosella Cormier, Brian spent his early years surrounded by family and community before moving to Toronto, where he grew up. He attended De La Salle High School, a period that would shape much of his life. There, he discovered his love for music and fellowship through the school’s drum corps, developing friendships and a passion for music that would follow him for life. After school, Brian’s professional journey reflected his curiosity, enthusiasm, and adaptability. He worked for Gray Line Bus Tours, where his love for the tourism industry first took root. Always seeking new challenges, he tried his hand with the Toronto Transit Commission in an accounting position. He soon came to realize his energy and leadership skills were better suited elsewhere. His next stop was Boat Tours International at Toronto’s waterfront—an environment that matched his appetite for a challenging opportunity. Brian loved being near the water, and the occasional use of the owner’s speedboat added to his enthusiasm for this new position. Eventually he was offered a position as Director of Operations at Casa Loma where he stayed until retirement. Brian enjoyed his new role and particularly enjoyed his involvement in film shoots at Casa Loma. He thrived on the excitement of the industry, meeting actors, crew members and industry executives. His warmth and humour made a lasting impression on the people he met as well as colleagues, some of whom became lifelong friends. It was during his time working in Toronto’s tourism community that Brian met the love of his life, Joan. He was attending a business event located in the indoor observation deck at the top of the CN Tower. Joan worked at the CN Tower in Public Relations and was also attending the same event with colleagues. Their story began at the CN Tower, and, with characteristic charm and initiative, she introduced herself to him. They married on May 12, 1984, beginning a marriage filled with love, laughter, shared adventures, and enduring partnership. Brian found a new joy in travelling. He and Joan went to New York, Los Angeles, San Diego, London and Paris. They took vacations to Quebec, Ireland, Mexico, the Caribbean, Las Vegas and Florida and celebrated their 25th anniversary on a memorable Mediterranean Cruise. Brian also embraced a new role as stepfather to Ryan, then nine years old, a role he filled with patience, love, and pride. He will be deeply missed by his wife Joan, his Stepson Ryan (Tanya) Shears, Grandchildren Tyonna, Ryan Jr. and Malcolm; Brother Wayne (Maggie), Niece Sara, Nephew Paul; Brother-in-law John (Jeannine) Dowley, Sister-in-law Maura (John) Kolesznyk; nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. He is also survived by his son Darrin. He was predeceased by his brother Robert “Bud” and his parents, George and Rosella. A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring or early summer of 2026, with details to be shared once confirmed. As we remember Brian, we hold close the words that reflect his spirit best: “Death leaves a void that no one can heal, but love leaves memories that no one can steal.” Irish Proverb