Brian Joseph Tetlock, beloved husband, father, uncle and friend, passed away with his family by his side June 10, 2024, at the age of 70. Born in Timmins, ON, Brian lived the fullest life possible filled with fun, family, travel, passion, music, food, and dedication to the things and people he loved most.
Brian was born in Timmins, ON in 1953 and moved to Burchell Lake, ON, a small mining community in 1959. Most of his fondest childhood memories were spent there playing with friends, swimming, and fishing in the lake. Tragically, his mother was taken from him at the young age of 8 by cancer, and the family eventually moved back to Timmins in 1966 to be closer to family. The years that followed his mother’s death were a little more difficult. Brian moved back to Burchell Lake for some time then out to Norquay, SK to live with his grandpa Tetlock. The good life started again when he eventually settled in Shebandowan, ON in 1969 with his sister Patsy.
It was at this time he met and married the love of his life Deborah MacLeod, who he immediately knew was the one. He got married four months after meeting her in April 1974. They welcomed daughter Becky into the world in 1977, and Stacy in 1980. Brian’s three girls were his pride, joy, and purpose. His grandchildren held the same regard. He never stopped, even up to his last breath, trying to protect and make us happy. Brian was able to celebrate his 50th wedding anniversary on April 20, 2024, with family by his side.
Brian was a man of many interests and talents. He loved all things construction and spent his life in the field in various capacities. Brian was creative and charismatic in his work. Brian started his career at VB Cook Engineering right out of high school and this experience helped steer his path. Following his time with VB Cook, Brian started LTL Construction with partners Vic and Harvey Laurin retiring in 1988 to pursue sole ownership. Brian felt the company was in good hands as he handed over the reins and company to his very talented brother-in-law Scott MacLeod. Brian was known for his extremely generous nature. Brian officially retired from his last business venture Mekena Project Management in 2014. Through all his business ventures over the years he always made sure his employees were well taken care of, sometimes at the expense of his own paycheck. We will forever be reminded of him as we drive through Thunder Bay and the surrounding area and see his projects that have come to life.
His love for fireworks and hot tubs was well-known; every weekend at camp he cooked extravagant feasts and orchestrated spectacular displays that lit up the night sky and filled the hearts of those around him with wonder. A natural performer, Brian had the most beautiful voice that could uplift any room. His singing, whether at family gatherings or in the kitchen, was a source of delight and comfort to many. Cooking was another of his passions; his kitchen was always a disaster and filled with the delicious aromas of his latest culinary experiments, and his meals brought people together in laughter and love.
Brian cherished his time with his best friend, Russell. Fifty plus years of friendship, their bond was a testament to the enduring power of friendship, filled with shared adventures, heartfelt conversations, and mutual support through life's ups and downs.
Brian was predeceased by his parents Dolan and Gertude (Gauthier) Tetlock, sister Nadine Tetlock, and sister and brother-in-law Patsy and Peter Parker. He most recently lost his second mother, Vivian MacLeod, and has left to join her and all the rest of his family in heaven.
Brian is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Debbie, his children, Becky (Anthony) Andrusco and Stacy (Brad) Tetlock. Grandchildren Taylor (Cole) Tetlock, Zachary and Mackenzie McClain and Eleazar and Ethan Andrusco. His sisters Judy (Ted) Armstrong, Doris (Don) Sinclair and brother Gary Tetlock. He leaves to miss him, so many cherished nieces and nephews, his best friend, Russell (Ruth) Sitch and their children Ryan and Kimmy. He also leaves behind a huge community of friends, business colleagues, and his children’s friends and families who will miss his hospitality, warmth, humour, acceptance of all, unwavering generosity, and kindness. A special thank you goes out to Diana Spittlehouse for being there for mom the last three months, and Jamie Halstead who was like a daughter to Brian and whose love and generosity knows no bounds.
A celebration of Brian's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 17, 2024, at Sargent and Son Funeral Chapel, 21 N Court St. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Northern Cancer Fund in memory of Brian Tetlock. Although we did not have the outcome we hoped and prayed for, our experiences have highlighted the dire need of advancements and equipment for improved Cancer Care in the North.
BJT touched the lives of many, and his laugh, smile, song, and quick wit will live on in the memories of those who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.sargentandson.com.
