RHODES, Brian William “Brizy”

March 4, 1955 — January 4, 2026

How does one tell the story of a master storyteller?

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Brian William Rhodes, who died peacefully in Kelowna, BC, on January 4, 2026, at the age of 70.

Brian’s story began on the plains of Alberta, but it certainly did not stay there. Over seven decades, his life grew richer with every chapter. His stories, however, had a tendency to grow even richer with each telling. Those stories were shared around kitchen tables, beside the pool, and around campfires, usually delivered with perfect timing, a dry smile, and very often a Fat Tug in hand.

Brian’s stories crossed continents, from New Zealand to France, connecting the many people who have since reached out to say just how much he mattered to them. Nearly every message shared the same theme. Brian was generous. Generous with his time, his knowledge, his opinions, and his love. If Brian cared about you, he showed it, sometimes with quiet support, sometimes with practical help, and sometimes with hill repeats.

One of Brian’s greatest joys was capturing life through a camera lens. In his earlier life chapters, the camera captured him, including a feature in Runner’s World that confirmed what he already knew, that he was an excellent runner. In later years, Brian became best known as the man behind the camera, faithfully documenting the lives of the family he adored and the Kelowna running community. Each month, he created birthday posters for his grandchildren, carefully selecting photos and layouts that preserved moments forever.

Brian approached hobbies and purchases with the same level of commitment. He was a proud early adopter of just about everything. Whether it was a new camera, the latest Apple Watch, or a golf club that promised an extra ten yards, Brian could explain, in detail, exactly why his version was the best version and why it was absolutely worth it. Brian believed he deserved the best, and in many ways, he was the best.

This belief was not entirely unfounded. In 1980, Brian set a Guinness World Record for wheelbarrow racing, a sentence that somehow makes perfect sense if you knew him. As an athlete, Brian was agile, competitive, and disciplined, although some of the most treasured family memories come from moments when coordination did not quite keep up with enthusiasm. Laughing with Brian, and sometimes at Brian, was one of life’s great pleasures, and one that will be deeply missed.

Above all else, Brian’s greatest pride and joy was his family, especially his grandchildren. He was endlessly curious about their lives, fiercely proud of their accomplishments, and always ready with a camera, a comment, or a plan for the next adventure.

Brian will be deeply missed by his wife, Cindy; children Chelsea (Jesse) and Cory (Allyssa); grandchildren Piper, Rhodes, Paisley, Hugh, and Reece; siblings Donald, Gary (Margaret), and Susan (Lyle); sister-in-law Laurelee (Don); nephews and nieces Jennifer, Melanie, Ashley, TJ, Kyle, Mathew, Brittany, Taylor; and the many friends who are already swapping Brian stories and smiling through the tears.

A celebration of Brian’s life will be held later this year, where stories will be shared, laughter will be encouraged, and Brian would very much expect everyone to stay a little longer than planned.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Brian’s memory to BC Cancer Foundation or to a charity of your choice.

The family extends sincere thanks to the emergency staff at Kelowna General Hospital, the team at Kelowna’s Cancer Clinic, and Interior Health’s Palliative Care Home Support team for their compassion and care. Special thanks to Dr. Brand and family friend Dr. Spelliscy for their kindness and support.

Brian’s story continues in the photos he took, the advice he gave, the laughter he created, and the many lives he touched. If there is one thing Brian would want, it is for his stories to keep being told, preferably with embellishments.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.