A PRAYER FOR DADDY - from Caroline (8 years old)Please god take good care of my daddy.
I will always love him in my little heart full of love for my daddy.
I hope he can hear me right now as i say this special prayer for him.from Caroline
A TRIBUTE TO DADDY - from Marc (9 years old)
Dear Chris and God,
We were a great family and we still are.
With daddy up in heaven, mommy by my side, this love will never end;
and with this love, we will all give thanks to each other and to God.This will be the family that the three of us in heaven will carry on forever.
from Marc
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Gabriella
Chris, honey, we are gathered here today in your honor, to tell you how much we love you and how proud we are of you for fighting the good fight. That was so important for you, and you did. I know that you are here among us today, that your soul lives on even when your body does not. I know that you will be listening, maybe even smiling, and I am very grateful for this opportunity to celebrate your life.
*************************************************************
I would like to start by thanking you all for coming in such large numbers. I did know that Chris left a positive impact with every person he met, but I guess I didn't realize how big!
We received hundreds of notes in the past few months, and some of them were from people he only met once, for one hour. Isn't that incredible? To have the ability to touch someone within the first hour of meeting them to the point that, they go out of their way to write to us to let us know that Chris will live in their hearts forever... I don't think there can be a greater accomplishment in life. There are people here who have not seen Chris in over 10 or 15 years. Maybe then, maybe more recently through his story, he touched your hearts as well...
I say congratulations honey, and I say thank you. Thank you for showing me, and giving me, unconditional love.
I think that's his secret, that's how he touched people's hearts. His soul reached out and gave others his gifts... Marc, Caroline, when we look at a picture of daddy now, we will remember his gifts of love, of patience, of encouragement, of listening and then of understanding, of trust and faith, of courage and inspiration. Gifts that no amount of money can buy. Those are the gifts that daddy left us. We are very very lucky.
*************************************************************
Fate played its part to make sure Chris and I connected in this lifetime. When we started Cegep, the "computer" somehow assigned us the same schedule: we were together in 7 out of 8 courses... And no, it was not love at first site. Chris listened to rock music ("if it's too loud, you're too old" he used to say) and I danced to disco. Chris ate really really spicy food and I didn't even add pepper to my plate back then. But we became study buddies and we slowly built a friendship that was rock solid. Two years later, when it was time to apply to university, we both knew we would be together for a long long time.
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I've always believed that it's important to nurture a kind of mutual admiration in a relationship, and with Chris, I could never run out of things to admire. I can't even attempt to list them here... but I will mention that he had a curiosity and an open-mindedness that earned him tremendous spiritual growth over the years. Although I was the one pulling him along on our spiritual path, he followed, and he learned along with me. I know that not very many husbands do that and I always felt very privileged in my relationship with Chris.
We used to walk along the water at Harbourfront where we lived, with the children running ahead of us... and we used to pinch each other to see if we were in a dream. Our life was too perfect. We knew, somehow, that we would face a big challenge. And we did.
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On May 11th, 1998 (it was Caroline's birthday) we found out that Chris had cancer. Together, we embarked on a truly incredible journey of hope. When the doctors said there was no hope, we turned to nutritionists, to naturopaths, to prayer and visualization, and then full circle to other doctors... there had to be an answer somewhere...
Chris made the best of every day on his journey. He stopped working right away, and out of about 755 days of being at home and battling with cancer, he didn't have a single bad day (OK, he would be the first to tell me I have a selective memory... but I don't remember any bad days).
Chris taught me to appreciate the beauty and the specialness (I know it's not a word...but it's right) of the small things in life. For instance, he loved driving Marc and Caroline to school, back and forth every day for a full school year. He treasured those hours in the car. He made them fun.
Chris never lost his hope or his faith. Two days before he died, Chris held a meeting in his hospital room to talk about a rehabilitation program! This is not denial, this is hope and faith; deeply rooted hope and faith.
Even as Chris was dying, he continued to touch hundreds of lives through his story. When he said goodbye, he knew he had made a difference.
*************************************************************
Dying is the end of one journey, and it is the beginning of another. Good luck, Chris, on your journey to heaven.
You were my best friend first, then my husband, and then the most wonderful daddy in the world... All along and to this day, you are my hero.
Thank you honey. Thank you for 20 wonderful, perfect years together.
May you rest in peace, guide and protect us forever and ever.
I love you.
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Yves & Rita Bruyere
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Danys Bruyere
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Jean-Léon Bruyere
Christian est mon neveu et mon filleul.
Comme Christian et son frère Danys étaient du même âge que mes fils Michel et Philippe (Alain s'est rajouté au groupe des cousins plus tard), nous avons partagé beaucoup de bons moments ensemble: réveillons de Noël, anniversaires, excursions de camping au lac George et en Virginie. Christian a toujours été un meneur et un boute-en-train. Lorsque les quatre cousins s'installaient à table, c'était un concours pour voir qui réussirait le plus à faire rire les autres! Et Christian était un champion dans ce domaine.
Et puis Christian a grandi, a bien réussi ses études, s'est marié à la belle Gabriella, a eu des enfants (Marc et Caroline) aussi chaleureux que leurs parents, a entrepris une belle carrière. Toujours en gardant son allure de "p'tit gars" enjoué, avec son sourire, son rire et sa voix qui résonne encore dans nos coeurs.
Son plus grand défi l'attendait et il l'a relevé avec foi et courage. Il a lutté pendant deux ans et nous a permis de participer à son combat. Devant tant de détermination, devant une attitude si positive, devant tant de preuves d'amour, nous nous sommes tous sentis grandis et plus forts. Voilà ce qu'il nous a légué en plus de sa joie de vivre: la foi, le courage et la tenacité devant toutes les épreuves.
Voici une anecdote qui démontre bien l'attitude positive de Christian. Vous savez tous comment nous nous sentons mal à l'aise lorsque nous revoyons un être cher diminué par le cancer. Christian voulait dissiper ce malaise et, un certain jour de l'an chez Françoise et Tony, il nous avait accueillis en disant: "Le gars qui n'a pas de cheveux, c'est Christian!" Cela avec un beau sourire. Quelle façon positive de mettre les gens à l'aise!
Plusieurs d'entre vous ici ont assisté au renouvellement de ses voeux de mariage l'an passé. Vous avez pu constater que Christian avait un cercle d'amis très impressionnant parce qu'il avait un coeur généreux et qu'il accordait beaucoup d'importance à la famille et à l'amitié. C'était un être attentif aux autres et toujours disponible.
Nos vies ont toutes été marquées par Christian et nous allons toujours le porter dans nos coeurs.
Au revoir, cher Christian.
Ton oncle et parrain,
Jean-Léon
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Erato & Tito Sahapoglu
The privilege
of a lifetime
is being who you are
- Joseph CampbellChris!
You were a Godsend son to Tito and me to share with your parents!
We loved you so much! For everything that made you exceptional! Your wit, your knowledge, warmth, kindness, integrity, and
mainly your "joie de vivre".We cherished your understanding and respect of our Greek customs, different from your own. I remember our backgammon
games, where you were a novice and me the expert. Yet I lost almost every single game to you! You would grin and say "Oh! I
just had a lucky roll of dice!"During the last 2 years, you faced the most formidable sickness with dignity, realism, yet with hope, faith and above all with
superhuman courage.You did not crumble. You tried everything possible in order to heal. And you made love, joy and happiness shine through
your family life. You offered, with Gaby, to Marc and Caroline the nicest vacations, joyful celebrations and new playful
sensations on the ski slopes, the lakes, the sea. Ignoring all discomfort you were present to your kids and Gaby everyday,
every moment. What a lesson!.. And what sweet unforgettable memories.When you asked me last week "Do you believe in miracles?" I answered "Yes I do!" We did not witness a miracle the way we
expect one. But YOU created a miracle Chris, with your strength to talk one-to-one to all your loved ones and to the special
people who meant a lot for you. You shared your Faith, your belief in Life and in God and you prepared us all, especially Marc
and Caroline, for your departure. This achievement is in itself a miracle Chris.Your last demand from me last Friday was: "My children, they should BE children! I want them to play! Play! To enjoy
Life!" I promised you, with Tito, and we all will see to it Chris And I know you will make sure we do ... with the help of God
and His love for you. Rest in peace Chris.Strength and serenity to you Gaby, Marc and Caroline. May you "enjoy life" the way Chris wants you to.
Till we meet again Chris!
Erato & Tito Sahapoglu
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Janis Browne
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Eric & Gail Martin
With all of the tributes and fine speeches ahead of me here there may not be many more words that I can offer, which will give you comfort. I am here today to try though, because of my love for Chris and for Gaby, Marc and Caroline.
It was about 17 years ago that Gaby introduced Gail and I to Chris. Our children, Heather and Brett, have known him their entire lives.
To that end they knew Chris, not just as another one of our friends, or even as Marc and Caroline's dad. Instead they knew him as another parent. He could offer instruction, guidance and even discipline as if it was coming from us. Our children in turn knew him as someone they could trust to keep them safe. He was someone that could make them laugh and encouraged them to try their hardest at everything they did.
Gail's fondest memory was when the phone rang one morning and answering it, found Chris, Marc and Caroline singing Happy Birthday. It was this spontaneity and love for the moment that she will remember most about Chris.
For me, picking one memory to talk about is very difficult.
However, I would like to share a story about Chris with you that I'm pretty sure even you Gaby don't know about. You see, it happened last summer at the cottage. Gaby had gone into town and the rest of us went skiing. After watching all of us having fun Chris decided to go for a ski himself. This was against all orders he had to rest. Not doctors orders of course ...
Robin White was at the helm of his new boat, which easily lifted Chris up out of the water by the beach and took him out into the lake. After passing the point and out of sight of the beach Chris caught a ski and fell. Of course Robin pulled the boat around and as we proceeded to pull him out of the water he fell again. Robin went back around and Chris fell again. He must have fallen four times, each time waving for us to try again.
However, this time both Robin and I had had enough. We drove straight to him and demanded that he get in the boat. Chris had a look in his eyes that I had not really seen before. They were as hard as steel. And his face was set in a fashion that would brook no argument. He told us that there was no way he was going to ride back the beach. He came here on two skis and he was going back on two skis. Robin and I both had no choice so we threw the rope. Chris lifted out of the water and of course we headed straight back for the beach.
People who don't know Chris that well may assume that it was pride that kept him from getting into the boat that day. People who know Chris are convinced it was his stubborn streak.
Maybe it was pride, or maybe it was his just being stubborn or maybe it was something even deeper than either of these. It doesn't really matter. This story was important to me becomes it exemplifies the fighting spirit that Chris had when he went after something he wanted. You should have heard the story about fighting to get into Western, his Commercial Real Estate dealings, his squash games and paint ball and much more.
Is there a life lesson here? Perhaps. But, I'll leave that for a later discussion.
For me, Gail, Heather and Brett I can honestly say we'll miss Chris.
We already do.
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Greg & Elaine Dimmer
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Peter Doering & Lucie Gauvin
I visited Chris last week and we had a good talk and at one point in the conversation , I said something that produced the famous big grin on Chris' face. Chris had asked me to take care of a few things and I told him that no matter what, I would help make sure that as Marc and Caroline grow older , I would be one of many friends to ensure that they would know all the wonderful things their Dad accomplished and that I would not be editing out some of the wilder and crazier things that their Dad did. Chris laughed.
I've known Chris since our university days at Western and true friendships like this are rare. We all become older and we get busier with our families, our careers, and with helping our ageing parents and it becomes more difficult it to begin new friendships. And sometimes we take our friendships for granted. And when they start to slip away we realise how significant a part of our lives they are. It is these friendships and our families that mean so much to us.
Back in our University days, Chris and I lived in the same campus residence and in our third year, we both went to Business School. I should say all three of us went to Business school since, for as long as I knew Chris, Gaby was always there.
During our two years in business school, I was always amazed at how quickly he'd answer the professor's questions on our cases. For those of you who aren't familiar with cases, they seem to be very common to business programs and usually describe a real life business problem. These cases are quite often 40 to 50 pages in length together with financial schedules and we had to read and analyse 4 or 5 of them every day.
Well, there was no way you could read and analyse all these cases. Many times you'd just pray that you weren't the person that the prof asked to summarise the issues in the case. This possibility however, never seemed to bother Chris. Chris would read the cover page, the back page, skim a few financial summaries and proceed to raise his hand and volunteer an answer. Our prof would call on Chris, and presto, out came the most unbelievable, coherent stream of consciousness you've ever heard. I'd being sitting there thinking "what the heck is Chris talking about? " Where did he get this stuff? ... and 9 times out of 10, his 5 minute answer would engage the prof and they'd be jabbering back and forth . It was then, that I knew, Chris was destined to put that incredible skill to good use.
During our graduating year, the school organised guest speakers to come in on several occasions and discuss their particular industry or their success within a certain company, in order to provide the students with some real life examples and guidance. Chris and I went to several of these with nothing really catching our attention until a fellow by the name of Knowlton came to visit the school and talk about the real estate industry. Well, when we heard about the excitement of the deal making and the potential dollars involved. Well, the rest is history.
So off we went, in the mid 80's to the join Toronto's real estate industry. And even with our incredibly measly starting salaries we somehow always managed to have enough funds to be able to go out every Thursday after work and talk business of course.
And over the last 15 years Chris spent most of it in the industry that he loved with a group of people at Avison that became Chris' extended family. That culture was something that Chris helped to foster and he was very proud of that.
Chris being of Quebecois origin, inherited an abundance of "joie de vivre" and he never forgot about Quebec. Over the years he beat a very well worn path between Toronto and Montreal, visiting friends and family and doing business. In fact, he's the only guy I know that could drive that distance in about 3 and one-half hours. He's also the only guy I know who's had a plane land in his backyard.
Chris was always engaging, optimistic, always cheerful and always ready to listen . He never gave up easily when he was negotiating or confronted with adversity. He'd argue his point with great persuasion and charm. Chris never differentiated between a CEO nor the fellow running the parking lot. He treated everyone with the same respect and enthusiasm. He made friends easily, with men, women and children alike.
Chris was a remarkable judge of character and there is no better example of this, than his partner in life, Gaby. As we all prayed with Chris during the past 2 years, Gaby became a pillar of strength with boundless energy to tackle every obstacle and every responsibility.
Chris spent as much time as he could with his kids. In a recent email to me and several other friends, Chris wrote something that will resonate with every parent in this church. He wrote: "As little as there are positives to find in this whole thing, the biggest one has been the two summers that I have been able to spend lolly gagging with the kids during the ten week (summer) break. It's a gift that every father should buy for himself while the kids are young".
Chris touched all of our hearts and made all of our lives better for it. And as much as we loved him and he loved us, he loved his family more than anything on this earth. Gaby, Marc and Caroline always came first. Chris' family was always Chris' passion.
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I am standing on the seashore.
A ship spreads white sails to the morning breeze
And starts for the ocean.
I stand watching him until
He fades on the horizon.And someone at my side says
"He is gone"
Gone where? The loss of sight is in me,
Not in him.Just at the moment when someone says
"He is gone"
There are others who are watching
Him coming.
Other voices take up the glad shout
"here he comes"
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Mark Fieder
God puts people in our lives for us to learn from and be inspired by.
When I first met Chris in 1985 I am pretty sure he didn't inspire me right away. I was working for Knowlton Realty in what was affectionately called the assistants pit.
For me it was a perfect little area of 100 square feet. I had my own desk and all I had to do was respond to Ted Avison's every beckon call. Life was simple.
Then along came a self-confident, straight talking Frenchman with an HBA from the University of Western Ontario, of which I was reminded on more occasions than I care to remember. Well, Chris and I managed to work things out quite well in the pit until John Gordon and Ted Avison decided that it was much to luxurious to have a 50 square foot work space.
In comes a German recruit by the name of Kai Gutheil. Kai was so impressed during the recruiting process. He was told how wonderful he was and that working for Knowlton Realty would be a guarantee to the top of the commercial real estate industry. Then he found out that his working area was a grand total of 33 square feet with neighbors at his elbows.
Well, there I was sharing 100 square feet with a French Canadian with attitude and a German who just could not understand that spending several years in a Canadian University would lead him to picking up Ted Avison's laundry.
Of course we did not recognize at the beginning that a life long friendship had begun between Chris, Kai and myself.
Chris did teach and inspire us right from the day we met in the pit. I would like to share what I have learned the most from Chris:
Loyalty.
Chris demonstrated loyalty on a personal level and also to our company which was formed back in 1989. This we appreciated because it was contagious to so many people that have work with us over the years.Trust and Confidence.
I learned a lot about trust and confidence which was always available from Chris when you needed it. Many times I relied on personal and business advice from Chris with the absolute comfort that it was for our discussion only.Family.
Chris taught us by example how to be a great husband to Gabby and father to Marc and Caroline.Respect.
I have always been inspired how Chris put Gabby and the children, friends, his Parents, and his in- laws and extended family on a pedestal, no matter what the circumstances.Community.
Chris was an avid gatherer of people, focusing on family and friends getting together to have fun. He was always the most gracious host.
On a lighter note:
- He taught my wife Claudia what truly hot food is. After a dinner in China town with Chris and Gabby, Claudia lost all senses in her mouth for about a week.
- Chris was a faster and more skilled driver than even I, which was confirmed by his daughter Caroline just a few weeks ago. I asked Caroline how my driving was and she responded, its fine but not as fast as my daddy. Snowmobiles of course do not apply to this category, as many in this gathering well know.
- Chris even inspired us on the evening news one night as he was explaining how the fire department and rescue team where going to remove an elderly lady from the plane, which crashed in his backyard on the day they moved into the house.
Chris was a great friend and we will miss his teaching and inspiration.
Love can touch us one-time and last us a lifetime. Chris has touched us for a lifetime.
In tribute to Chris Bruyere's life and what he gave us to keep.
Mark P. Fieder
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Robin White
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Geoffrey Lalonde
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Kjell-Eivind Kolstad
Dear Caroline and Marc,
I would like to share a few memories that I have of your Daddy.
Your Daddy was very special - and many things can be said about your Daddy ... you have heard many nice words and stories today. We all carry those words in our hearts ... they are part of us and express the feelings that we have inside.
Chris was always a Giver - he not only had strength but also gave strength and inspiration.
He had an amazing ability to cheer people up and always managed to put smiles on their faces.Here's an example: A few years ago, Chris and I went golfing in Candiac and played with two elderly ladies. They did not play very well, but he still encouraged them, chatted and made them feel comfortable and cheery. I am sure they would remember Chris even today. That's the kind of impression he leaves with everybody.
Chris always had time for other people, time to listen, time to encourage, and time to give - and I am sure that you will be as caring and giving, because your Daddy lives forever in your hearts.
Your family always made me feel welcome in your home - even after being gone for a long time, the door was open and you let me in without any hesitation. That is a sign of trust, love and devotion - and I feel deep appreciation, gratitude and respect for that.
I am sure that Chris would like us to be happy, strong and care for each other, this day and all days to come. Your Daddy is so proud of you - you are the gems in his life, and will continue to be so forever.
Your Daddy's last words to me were, "I love you" and I return those three words to you Caroline and Marc
With love,
Kjell-Eivind
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Odd-Sverre Kolstad
Dear Caroline and Marc.
I am Kjell-Eivinds brother and I met you, your mother and father only once.
You were only 2 and 3 years old, so you don't remember me, but I remember you very well. I am so sorry to hear that Chris is no longer living on this earth, but is now in heaven where he does not have to worry about his cancer.
I know that Chris was a rare man. He had this special twinkle in his eyes, that only men have, who are strong within themselves and are in love with
someone. And I know that his greatest loves were the two of you and your mother. He was very proud of you. And his strongest wish was to be there for you for so much longer. In the end he realized that he would not be able to do so. But I am sure he wants you to be happy and cheerful even if he is gone. When some time has passed, it is my belief that the memory of
your father will be like a good invisible partner for you. Something to hold on to that gives you strength.My daughter Siri, who you also met that time in 1994, my little daughter Emma, my wife Nina and I are thinking a lot about you and we wish you the best in the world.
Odd-Sverre
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Carrie Ann Colton & Stephen Kavanagh
We met Chris, Gabby and the children at Bonita Beach, by the pool. Our niece and nephew, Brody and Sarah are about the same age as Caroline and Marc. We braved the mosquitos and played miniature golf. We have the goofiest picture of Chris, driving, which was taken by Caroline and Sarah, who took an entire roll of film just on the drive from the condo to the golf place.
We remember Chris as the "enforcer" of the pool area: he openly admitted Caroline had him wrapped around her little finger, and all Marc had to do was flash his beautiful smile and ask nicely, and Chris would allow them to stay just a few more minutes. But, never do I remember Chris allowing them to be late for a lunch or dinner that Gabby had prepared, or for church.
The greatest gift Chris gave to us, besides his beautiful smile and words of wisdom, (a few very very bad jokes, too) was to ask us when we were going to get married, and when would we try to have children. He never questioned that we would have our own children, even though I still question the issue myself. He reassured us that being a couple was indeed a blessing from God.
The second greatest gift he gave us was his trust in allowing us to watch the children, for whom we have developed an unconditional love for, who have a very special place in our hearts, and always will.
I would have to say that the third greatest gift came from the Bruyere family: a visit and to share my 31st birthday: Gabby and Chris have taught
their children to hug and love. The hugs I received that night from all of them, and the wonderful family pictures taken that night, are memories that will stay forever.Carrie Ann Colton & Stephen Kavanagh
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Roger & Judy King
Chris:
You are the brother we all chose. There is so much we have learned from you and lived through you. You taught us about a love that transcends any human notion of duty- just look at your relationship to your family, and to all of us. You taught us the value of patience and tenacity. I recall a wonderful moment during the summer up at the cottage on Georgian Bay when tiny Marc wanted to throw a stone and hit a piece of driftwood. You worked with Marc, not until you were bored, but until Mark was thrilled that he could hit it each and every time. You showed the same spirit in everything you did.
You taught us that joy has an ever-increasing number of facets- you encouraged Marc and Caroline to grow and experience new things, and you were joyous each and every bit. You taught us about friendship and commitment by staying in touch, visiting and inviting when most would have let go. Lastly, in recent months, you have taught us about honor and a level of personal bravery that we never knew could exist in one human being.
In all, you taught us to make things count, and to cherish our lives and the ones we love, and the time we have with them. Over the years there were many moments when I felt like the younger man, the student, rather than the reverse.
In our eyes, Chris, you will always be young, strong and loving. Through Gaby, Marc and Caroline, you will always be here with us.
Thank you for being our friend. Thank you for being our brother.
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Barbara Lanys
"What is a Lifetime?"
There are those of us who work hard our whole lives, but never find the work we enjoy doing each day.........Chris found it;
There are those of us who enjoy our work, but never get the respect and admiration of those we do business with each day....Chris did;
There are those of us that become so self-absorbed or involved in our own lives that we forget our parents and siblings.....not Chris;
There are those of us that go through life without ever having a plane crash in our backyards.....not Chris;
There are those of us who search our whole lives for our true partner in life and never find them.....Chris found her;
There are those of us who have many children, yet do not have one child who respects and adores them......Chris had two.
TO have lived a "lifetime" is not measured in years but in your achievements as a human being. Chris reached the highest pinnacles in all areas of his life well before his years, and although grossly unfortunate that he could not enjoy his achievements for more years ahead, his legacy shall continue with Gaby, and with Marc and Caroline and the good he has ingrained in them.
Chris will be sadly missed and yet happily remembered by all whose lives he touched.
Sincerely,
Barbara Lanys
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Stratos Inglessis
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Laurent Benarrous
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Miriam Carver
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Michel Milot
En mémoire de toi,
Mes souvenirs d'enfance sont indissociables de la relation que j'ai eu avec la famille Bruyère. J'ai connu Christian je devais avoir 7 ans. Je me rappelle de ces chaudes matinées d'été que nous passions dans les marches intérieures de la maison sur la rue Auteuil à Candiac. Nous y discutions de choses et d'autres, à cet effet mes souvenirs sont vagues, de musique (on écoutait CKGM!), de Bob Barker (oui, oui!), du jeu secret de Danys et Christian (ma soeur et moi essayions d'en savoir plus long), et autres histoires de peurs.
Puis j'ai déménagé (toujours à Candiac) et ce nouveau lieu fût une source incommensurable de stimulation pour nos esprits imaginatifs. À côté de chez moi, la forêt avec ses nombreux chemins de ``mini-bike``. Les quatres : Christian, Danys, Christine (ma soeur) et moi nous nous inventions des histoires emballantes. Un jour c'était les Champions, le jour suivant on jouait à la ville (on inventait une ville pleine de structure, peut-être Christian y a t'il développé ses premières armes?), toujours à vélo, nous étions inséparables.
Une chose me rapprocha plus particulièrement de Christian à cet époque : notre passion pour le hockey. Combien d'heures avons nous passées à jouer (un était gardien, l'autre était l'avant) et à remplir nos livres de statistiques? Non seulement aimions nous y jouer, mais toute la dimension planification de la saison, statistiques et tout nous passionnait. On simulait les commentateurs sportifs, on criait, on était fous, on était les joueurs et la foule. Je me rappelle même de certains matchs, de certains buts. Non satisfait d'avoir joué toute la journée, nous nous retranchions chacun chez soi pour jouer aux petits hockey et y tenir encore d'autres statistiques, d'autres finales, d'autres cris. Et compte!!!! Ouaaiiiiiiiiiisss!!! Danys et Christine nous trouvaient ridicules!
Que de souvenirs, que de souvenirs. Je peux dire avec certitude que Christian fût mon premier meilleur ami. Je crois que ceci a du durer au moins 5 ans. Par la suite, et pour bien longtemps encore, il était le frère de mon meilleur ami, mais il était toujours présent dans ma vie. Mon père est décédé quand j'avais 15 ans. C'était l'été. Je me rappelle que les Bruyère s'en allait faire un voyage de 10 jours aux States. Pour une raison que je ne me rappelle plus, Christian décida de ne pas y aller (il devait faire quelque chose avec ses amis André et Dominique). Il y avait donc une place dans la voiture, Yves et Rita m'ont invité. Ce fût pour moi un voyage extraordinaire qui m'a permi de faire face au décès de mon père. Je leur en suis extrêmement reconnaissant et c'est drôle car paradoxalement c'est Christian qui m'a donné cette chance. Merci.
Christian, tu demeureras à jamais dans mes souvenirs, en moi tu vis. Ce que je suis aujourd'hui, ce que je suis suis devenu, père de deux magnifiques enfants, je te le dois un peu. Adieu mon ami.
En terminant ce poème composé il y a quelques semaines en passant à toi :
La vie telle une route se déploie,
Apportant sa part d'insomnies, d'incompris,
Le monde devant nous cet effroi
Chaque jour insoumis.Sur cette terre se déroule notre vie
Nos enfants, nos amis, nos émois
Ce monde qui chaque jour nous a appris
Que seul devant soi est notre voieMichel Milot
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Monique Jacob
Comment peut-on résumer la vie de Christian en quelques mots ? C'est impossible. Une vie comme la sienne ne se résume pas ainsi. Voilà une chance ! Quand je pense à lui, j'ai toutes sortes d'images qui s'entremêlent dans ma tête. Par où commencer ? Par une seule idée !230;
Ce que j'ai toujours admiré chez lui c'est sa façon de voir les choses. Face à ses défaites et à ses succès, il réagit de la même façon - tous les événements de sa vie lui permettent d'apprendre et de s'améliorer. Rien n'est vraiment une défaite car il choisit toujours de voir le bon côté. D'ailleurs, son enthousiasme est contagieux. Après avoir passé une veillée avec Christian, je me sens toujours bien - heureuse même (c'est vrai que le vin n'a pas fait de tort!) En sa compagnie, on est toujours garanti une conversation stimulante (bien que de temps en temps il ait les idées un peu «arrêtées». Parlez-en avec Tracy!) Christian, c'est un homme généreux qui donne de lui-même et qui, comme a dit le Petit Prince, embellit ma planète.
C'est vrai que Christian a accompli beaucoup dans sa vie. Mais je trouve que ce qu'il a fait de mieux est d'avoir aimé ma très bonne amie Gaby et leurs enfants. Ces personnes sont les plus beaux cadeaux qu'il nous ait laissés ; pour ça, je lui serai toujours reconnaissante.
Christian va beaucoup me manquer. Mais dans mon coeur et mes pensés il existe et existera tant que j'existerai.
Je pense à toi Christian - je sais que tu penses à nous aussi.
Adieu.
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Alice Ducharme
Chère famille Bruyère,
Nous sommes vraiment désolés d'apprendre la nouvelle que notre cher Christian est décédé. Quel parent magnifique il était et quelles merveilleuses discussions nous entretenions avec lui. Il était toujours si fier de sa belle petite famille et voulait leur assurer la meilleure
éducation possible. Il se dévouait beaucoup aux activités de l'école et nous l'appréciions tellement.Veuillez croire que nous pensions à lui souvent et il m'appelait parfois pour me donner de ses nouvelles et me parler de son état de santé. Ce qui était si remarquable était son optimisme et sa joie de vivre. On pouvait palper cela dans sa voix. On ne peut qu'imaginer la souffrance qu'il a dû subir.
Au nom de mon personnel et au nom des membres du Conseil scolaire, veuillez accepter nos sincères condoléances. Son souvenir sera toujours présent dans le coeur de tous ceux et de toutes celles qui l'ont connu et aimé.
La directrice de l'éducation du Conseil scolaire de district du
Centre-Sud-Ouest,
Alice Ducharme
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Brett Martin (7 years old)
"Chris, I will remember you as the best boat driver, because last summer
at the cottage you were driving the boat when I first waterskiied."Brett Martin
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Gisele Desroches
I don't need to have my tribute read, but I wanted to say something that has touched me always:
Ever since I first met you and Chris, I have noticed the beautiful love that you have for one another. Anytime he called for you, he asked "pour sa jolie epouse". I can only hope that the man that I marry someday, will be as in love with me as Chris was with you. I guess that means, my future intended, will have big shoes to fill.
God bless you and your children.
Love
Gisele
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Greg Kwong
Chris was a special man and I will always remember him as a boisterous, fun-loving, intelligent guy who helped me in my real estate career (he was one of the best "numbers" guy out there) and provided me with a lot of laughs as a friend. Throughout the years that I worked with him I don't know if he ever called me by my first name? All I would hear is a loud KWONG!!! if he ever wanted to talk or simply just in greeting. (Both Ted Avison and Chris never let me forget my ancestors!!)
After visiting your website I could only reflect on the family members that I have lost to cancer. A common theme I both read in your website and now feel is that at least Chris is not suffering anymore and he is now in a special place. We will not be able to attend the memorial service on
Friday; however, as Chris wanted this to be a celebration of his life then I will say now that Chris provided nothing but good memories to at least
two Calgarians.Sincerely,
Greg Kwong
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Russ Bruch
Dear Marc and Caroline
My name is Russ Bruch, and I went to University with your parents. Your Dad and I served on the HBA Students Council together at the Biz School. Your Dad was responsible for the money.
One of the things that I will always remember about your Dad was just how good a public speaker he was. Before the elections, all the candidates had 5 minutes to make a speech to explain why our classmates should vote for us. Your Dad gave an outstanding speech to his classmates. You could tell that he really thought about the message he wanted to deliver, he used a combination of humour, props and very carefully selected words to convince his classmates to vote for him.
One thing I am very glad of is that your Dad did not decide to run for the same position I was running for: I never would have been elected.
Your Dad and I worked together closely during our fourth year at Western, I was the one that worried, he was the one always telling me to relax, that everything would be fine. I learned to rely on him.
I remember your father as being quick to smile and to laugh. I remember him as very smart and focused. I remember him enjoying a good challenge, good company and a fine meal. When your dad set his mind to accomplishing something, he would succeed.
As you are faced with the many challenges that will come your way throughout your life, I hope that you deal with them with the same tenacity, vigor and joy that I saw your dad use. If you think things through, choose your words carefully, keep your sense of humour and creatively use the resources at your disposal you will achieve your dreams.
I will miss your father, but I am thankful that I had the chance to know him, to work with him, to laugh with him and to share a part of his life.
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Maria Escadon
Dear Gabriella, Marc and Caroline:
The memorial service held here in Toronto was very special. The tributes and prayers made were touching and I feel that you succeeded in making sure that Chris' memorial would be an uplifting tribute to his life. I left feeling confident that Chris is in a wonderful place now and that your strength and love will dominate in the difficult days ahead.
As you probably know, I met Chris at Avison Young several years ago. One thing I can say is that when you met Chris, you knew you met him for life no matter how much distance there was. Chris never judged anyone and accepted people at all levels. I honestly can say that I never saw Chris angry or upset.
I saw Chris only a few times during his two year battle and kept in contact with email. At the last Avison Christmas party, we briefly talked about how adversity puts life into perspective and the last words he spoke to us, as Mark and I were leaving, was well wishes for our Emily's next heart checkup in January. Even though he was obviously in the struggle of his life, he always stopped to ask how our Emily was doing and gave me words of comfort. What an incredibly caring man. He gave a lot of respect to all he met or spoke to and in turn he received a lot of respect back.
I recall one particular Christmas time at Avison Young; it was a particularly hectic time and oftentimes the Administrative Staff felt a little left out of the spirit of the season at the office, but Chris gave me a small unexpected gift, a small silver picture frame just to wish me a Merry Christmas. It was so thoughtful and it showed how much he appreciated what small help I offered in that part of his life.
In the office, although I sat around the side of the office space, I could hear his loud, contagious laugh all the way at my desk. You always knew when Chris was in the office. If it was quiet, he was out! I never had the pleasure of seeing a movie with Chris, but I'm sure you would spend more time laughing at his laugh than at the movie!
He always spoke fondly and proudly of you and there was no doubt of his devotion and love to his family.
I hope that this tribute will bring you joy and comfort in the days and years ahead. Chris will always be a source of strength and faith for my family. Know that his faith, his determination and courage will always be in our hearts forever.
God bless you all.
Love,
Maria, Mark & Emily Escandon
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Pierre Poulin
Bonsoir Mme Bruyere,
Je suis enseignant à l'école Jeanne-Lajoie. J'ai eu Marc dans ma classe l'année dernière, en 2e année, ce qui m'a permis de faire la
connaissance de M. Bruyere.
Ses efforts et son courage n'auront pas été vains puisque je garde un souvenir de Christian, ce père devoué, qui répondait inlassablement à la question : «Comment ça va?» un «Je vais très bien merci» qui restera gravé dans ma mémoire. Pourtant, il aurait eu toute les raisons de répondre autrement, mais il ne l'a pas fait. Il a transmis son courage et sa ténacité.
Mes pensées et celles de mon épouse, Cynthia, vous accompagnent.Pierre Poulin
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Berta & Lionel Arav
Cher Christian,
Dès le premier moment que nous avons fait ta connaissance, nous avons compris que tu étais un être exceptionnel. Tu nous as conquis par ta gentillesse, bonté et cordialité. Nous t'avons aimé dès le premier regard. Notre amour pour toi a grandi de jour en jour et nous étions très heureux de t'avoir comme ami. Hélas, tu étais tellement parfait que le Bon Dieu, malheureusement, a voulu t'avoir auprès de lui en t'arrachant, prématurément, des bras de ta chère famille.
Ton bon souvenir et ton doux sourire resteront, éternellement, gravés tout au fond de notre coeur et dans le coeur de toutes les personnes qui t'ont connu.
Repose en paix. Salut Cher Ami.
Berta et Lionel Arav
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Tony & Kate Quattrin
When someone you knew well and with whom you worked closely with for close to 4 years, is suddenly gone from this world, it is a powerful reminder of how precious life is. Chris was a shining example of someone who embraced life. He vigorously attacked his world and met his challenges with enthusiasm, energy and humor. Both Kate and I liked him a great deal and enjoyed the time we spent together.
I watched Chris evolve from a bold, brash young assistant to a mature, distinguished professional that handled his business associates and friends with honesty and class. Although we had not worked together for many years, I would run across Chris from time to time and was always greeted with a warm smile. He would always express a genuine interest in my well being and I always left our meetings feeling a bit better about the world. Chris was definitely one of the good people out there and he will be missed by many.
Gabrielle, we wish you and your family strength and courage in coping with your tragic loss. I have no doubt that your fond memories of Chris will help you in the days to follow.
Sincerely, and With Profound Regret,
Tony & Kate Quattrin
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Steve Dietrich
I think its been almost ten years since having worked with Chris at Avison Associates. Although we have been out of touch since having moved to Vancouver, he'll always be remembered as a friend to all who met him, a kind sounding board (in what at the time was a unkind market), he was more ambitious than all of us, and never seemed to give up.
To all the new kids on the block (myself in those days) he will be remembered as the voice of reason, encouragement and positive energy.
To his family who will miss him the most, it's this energy that we should all be sharing in his memory.
In tribute to Chris,
Steve Dietrich
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Rob Vanderwees
Dear Marc and Caroline: First of all, let me say what a pleasure it was to meet the two of you last Monday. You are two beautiful children who no doubt made your father very proud. I am also happy that you liked my trick of being able to tie my shoes! While there is much sadness due to the passing of your dad, there are a few important lessons that you can learn from this whole experience.
Lesson #1
Always try to be nice to people- when your father and I were classmates, he was always the first to offer a helping hand, a ride home and even the occasional dinner. It was his caring nature that won him many friends.Lesson #2
Always keep your sense of humour- your dad was always first with a joke or some gentle teasingLesson #3
Never lose your sense of curiosity or your sense of fun- your dad always asked questions - he needed to get to the bottom of everything- it was this trait that I'm sure made him a success in business- and as for a sense of fun, I can hear his laughter even as I write this noteLesson #4
Be respectful of others- your dad had a good way about him where he could make people feel important- as if what you were saying or what you were doing was so great- I'm sure that this is the teason why so many people have sent messages of support during your dad's illnessLesson #5
This is most important- if there are people in your life that you care about and like, make sure you keep in contact with them- I had the priveledge of knowing your dad while we were classmates and for a few short years after that time- however, we then lost track of each other and had only recently began to correspond again- while your dad was a good person in school, he obviously became a very good person later in life as a father, husband and successful businessman- this is the person that I wish I could have known better- but I made the mistake of losing touch- and as you can see with the passing of your father, there are no second chances- never ever say that you are too busy to send a note, a card or make a phone call just to tell somebody that you miss them or were thinking about them- you will always be busy- but you have to make time to do the little thingsWhile there are many other lessons that you will learn in life, I feel that if you follow what is written here, you will grow up to be everything your
mom and dad want you to be.... and more!Sleep well tonight, little friends. A wonderful life awaits you. I hope to see you again soon. Look after your mommy. Hope to see you again soon.
Rob Vanderwees
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Tania & Gavin
Chris' most memorable quality is his perseverance. It was a quality I heard a lot about during the years when your family and mine spent a lot of
time together (in Bonita). I remember that Chris had been wanting to be part of your life for a considerable amount of time . The inexhaustibility
of his efforts to make this happen was humbling. I remember hearing of his unmitigated efforts to make you his partner between high school and University and, finally, through your years at Western. Ultimately, you - it seemed - conceded to the inevitable ... inevitable because, clearly, Fate was a player in bringing you together. Chris obviously knew something that, at the time, you did not! That Chris never gave up is not only testimony to his strength of character. I believe he had a special relationship with Destiny; He was special. He was chosen and of course he is loved.Unable are the Loved to Die
For Love is Immortality
- Emily DickinsonTomorrow, celebrate Chris' life and Immortality.
Love
Tania & Gavin
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Kelly Smith
My name is Kelly Smith and I met Chris at UWO during my first year of the HBA program (his second). I got to know him as a friend and we had a chance to chum around a bit. After school, we kept in touch by having lunch once or twice a year. Chris had that wonderful combination of confidence and charm. Most of us were quite intimidated by the business school program & the professors but not Chris. He never seemed to question his abilities or intellect & I really admired him for this. At school he was already dating Gabriella & it was obvious to me how devoted he was. He was lucky to have found his true love so early, I thought. Later, when I saw Chris for lunch, he would talk about Caroline & Marc too with such pride.
Chris was so full of life & was someone I wanted to know & to keep knowing. I will miss him dearly, even though we did not see each other often. I will always remember his smiling face (& those amazing dimples!!).
Best wishes to you Gabriella, Marc & Caroline.
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS - from Ann Marie Simone
We do not know each other well, but having experienced your website, your journey, and your palpable love for Chris, I wanted to share
something with you.The following poem I picked up along the way in life, and the words seeminginly express how I think you must feel about Chris. I wish you
all peace.Do not stand at my grave and weep;
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn's rain.
When you awaken in the morning hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.Peace Within,
Ann Marie Simone
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