BRYANT, Dr. Philip Sidney
August 12, 1930 - November 4, 2014
With much sadness the family of Philip (Phil, Dr. Phil) Bryant announce his passing. Phil, during his lifetime wore many hats, some which we may miss. To name a few, he was a son, brother, brother-in-law, husband, father, grandfather, uncle to many, faithful and loyal friend to extended family, a mentor. Phil was a Dr. of Veterinary Medicine, Mayor, Councillor, Reeve, Mason, Rotarian, Elks member, Historian, Poet, Author, Carpenter, Craftsman only to name a few. His accomplishments were many though he always remained humble. Phil took great pride in his family and their accomplishments in life. Always vigilant, never critical, but always supportive of any and all endeavours his wife, children and grandchildren chose to embark upon. Phil loved to kibitz, and his sense of humour and quick wit were always a surprise to us all. He was a keen learner, a seeker of knowledge and to that end in later years he took up the computer and produced a book of poems, and a novel for family and friends. Phil loved sports. He was in total control of the remote. In later years it would make his whole day when he could watch baseball, hockey, curling, soccer, football, golf and the news all at one time. The past few years were fraught with many health issues. He never once complained, but accepted his lot with much dignity. He so enjoyed joining his friends at the Pioneer Trail Centre each morning for coffee, visits and some really mean games of smear. Phil was an ardent chess player and he loved nothing more than to challenge his sons and grandsons to a good game. He also enjoyed a good game of pool, even making his own pool cues. At home there was nothing he loved better than having friends and family come for dinner, and immediately after participate in crib and board games. We are forever grateful to his friends at the Pioneer Trail Centre and those who came to visit him at home, you all helped make his journey with ill health so much easier to bear. Phil is survived by his wife, Jane, his children and grandchildren, son Drew and wife Marilyn, daughter, Charlotte and grandson, Lance, son Aaron and wife Debbie and grandchildren Jessica and Justin. Phil is also survived by his long time friend, Elaine Johnson who will be forever grateful for his love and support of her family and friends. Phil is also survived by his sister and husband, Phyllis and Tim Kooistra, adopted sisters, Myrna Carrier, and Imelda Kurik, sisters-in-law, Nel, Sue and Rachael. Phil was predeceased by his parents and brothers, Fred (Marjorie), Donald (Eleanor), brothers Les and Harry - Harry passing away one month to the day prior to Phil’s passing. Phil is also survived by a wealth of life long friends from college days in Guelph and from his veterinary days in Bow Island and Drumheller. Phil’s passing has left a void in our lives, but we will all fill that void in time with all the wonderful memories and experiences we have had the privilege of enjoying over his long lifetime. At Phil’s request, there will be no memorial service. In lieu of flowers, Phil’s wish would be to pay it forward and do a good deed for someone in need, and always remember to hug your loved ones. The family wishes to thank Dr. Kuschke, Dr. Neffgen and Dr. Dayo and nurses and staff at Drumheller Hospital for their kindness and care during this difficult time. Also thank you to EMS and Drumheller Ambulance for their prompt, kind and considerate care of Phil during his trips to the hospital most especially his last trip which was very traumatic. Phil penned the following poem for his book of poems. This poem was used at his late brother Harry’s funeral. We felt it only appropriate that it should be enjoyed by all:
Moving On
The end is near, but have no fear
No time to mourn
No time to cry
I leave in peace, with earth and sky
Life is lived
Decisions made, but the time is now,
The clock has chimed
I go with loving peace of mind
I now, venture out,
To travel, on the river’s road
Where only currents, set the mode
I’ll voyage long
I’ll make my way
Through this land of joy they did survey
I’ll meet old friends, along the shore
And visit them
Just once more
When oceans reached
I will be free
To travel in eternity.
~ by Phil Bryant