Obituary of Brian William MORIARTY

August 9, 1937 – Montreal-Nord, Quebec   

April 21, 2020 – Calgary, Alberta

Brian Moriarty, of Calgary, passed away on April 21, 2020 at the age of 82 years. 

Brian was raised on a farm in Danville, Quebec. Growing up on the farm meant early mornings (4 am), feeding the animals, milking cows, and doing other tasks associated with rural living.   Brian loved to work.  This history, working on the farm, later translated into having a strong work ethic, waking up at 5:30 am, to work by 7 am, and home by 6:30 pm every night. 

As with many Canadians, Brian grew up with a passion for hockey.  In school, Brian played on the highschool team, and as a father, he passed on this passion to several of his grandchildren, granddaughter included! Brian was also an avid golfer and learned from the best by listening to Arnold Palmer records (not DVD’s!) on how to play golf.   Saturdays, then, meant playing golf in the summer, and Hockey Night in Canada in the winter. 

More importantly though, Brian was a faithful spouse, father, and grandfather.   Partaking in the weekly Friday night pizza nights at Poppa’s house, Brian was blessed to share memorable meals with the family he so loved.  What a valuable gift and memory Brian has left for his grandchildren.   Brian loved his grandchildren, and in his later years, just seeing them would bring tears to his eyes.  Brian had a good life, and when asked about it, said he had no regrets and wouldn’t do anything different.  What a blessing to be able to look back at one’s life with such a reflection.   

In his later years Brian developed dementia, and though he suffered for many years, he was blessed to have his wife, Janette, and Shannon, his daughter, visit and care for him faithfully until he passed.  Brian is now free and lives in the presence of God.  Truly blessed indeed. 

Besides his loving wife, Janette Shean, Brian is survived by his daughter Shannon Williams and son-in-law, Andy, and their children, Molly, Ella and Quinn; son Jason Moriarty and daughter-in-law, Sheryl and their children, Callum, Zoie, Eve, and William; siblings, Sheila, Patricia (Brian), Joyce, Judy (Ian), Joan (Bob), Gary (Linda) and Grant (Janice) and numerous extended family.

Brian was predeceased by his first wife, Elda Moriarty, brother Gerald Moriarty, and brother-in-law Gordon Marvell. Brian was a loving husband, father, and grandfather (Poppa), a faithful provider for his family and a hockey referee! Most importantly, a faithful follower of Jesus. We will miss you Poppa and look forward to a time when we meet again.

A Celebration of Life for Brian will be held at the Calgary Church of Christ, 4030 Maryvale Dr. NE, Calgary on Saturday, June 17, at 10:00 am.  A reception will follow.  Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.MHFH.com