April 14, 1942 - January 3, 2020
Brian passed unexpectedly at the Sault Area Hospital. He was a gracious and loving man, warmly elegant, with a profound sense of joy and spirit. Cherished husband of Peggy (Margaret) Wallace and of the late Winnie Campbell. Predeceased by his parents Tracey and Verna Torrance. Brother of Roger (June), Glen, Lorna (Robert), and Dale. Brother-in-law of Jane (Andy). Loved uncle to numerous nieces and nephews, and godfather to Andrea and Jamie Gill.
Brian was born into a rich rural heritage in Gordon Lake, part of a family of creative and dynamic thinkers who helped shape their communities in the most meaningful of ways. He began his business career in the executive training program at Imperial Shell Oil and attended York University. He was a born businessman with a real zest for the challenges of creative growth and potential in business. He was also drawn back to his roots in the north and so returned to Bruce Mines and began the 45-year development of Torrance Custom Interiors in its various configurations.
He was committed to his community and was actively involved in insuring that growth and creativity were its hallmarks. His participation included leadership roles in the Bruce Mines Chamber of Commerce, the Bruce Mines United Church, and the Northern Economic Development Corporation. He had a refined sense of participation and ‘giving back’ that manifested itself in such a variety of ways, from chairing committees, to playing ‘first Joseph’ in the Holy Walk, to mentoring students, and being the creative mind behind numerous fund raisers. The Four & Friends Art Show & Sale was Brian’s inspiration and he and The Four were proud of putting on the best art show in the north.
Brian loved art and literature. He was an accomplished organic gardener long before it was in vogue. He had extraordinary dogs who seemed to walk 'their boy’ rather than vice versa. He was an experienced traveller and loved an adventure whether big or small. He lived and breathed generosity and humour. Brian's spiritual beliefs were strong and he did think of death as the beginning of another journey; one that he knew nothing of except that it would be extraordinary and surprising, two things that were always such a part of him.
Family and friends are invited to gather at the Bruce Mines United Church on Saturday, January 11, 2020 from 10 am until time of Memorial service at 12 pm. Rev. Erasmus Madimbu officiating. Luncheon to follow.
Profound thanks to the ambulance attendants, doctors, and nurses who took such thoughtful and respectful care of Brian in his final hours.
In lieu of flowers donations to the SAH Cancer Clinic, the NSHN -Thessalon Site, the Bruce Mines United Church, or to the charity of your choice would be gratefully appreciated. Please visit Arthur Funeral Home website obituaries to leave memories and condolences as a keepsake for the family.