Obituary
It is with extreme sadness that we announce that KING, Brent James, age 68, passed away suddenly on May 19, 2021 at the Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria, BC.
Brent will be dearly missed by his wife of 30 years Linda (nee Marchak), his three children, Mariah, Tasha & Dustin King, his extended family, his friends, his musical colleagues and his spiritual community at Unity Nanaimo.
Brent will be missed most for his infectious laugh, his creative talent, his empathetic listening skills, his curious nature, his ability to connect on a deep and meaningful level, his loyalty, his generosity, his sense of humour and his unwavering love for his family.
Brent was born In Saskatoon SK on September 24, 1952 to Thelma King (nee Sellers) and Ernie King. An only child, Brent grew up with entrepreneurial parents who worked long hours at their restaurant The Glen and at the attached Dairy Whip. It is believed that Brent’s love for the open road started when the family would take annual vacations down south for the 2 week Christmas break. Brent graduated high school in Saskatoon before heading out on the road to pursue his love of music.
Brent’s love of music started at a very young age as he enjoyed a very musical upbringing. He started singing and touring as a member of the Saskatoon Boys Choir at age 11. He took an interest in learning the organ at the age of 15 and started to emulate his favourite artists through hours of practice. He started playing around Saskatoon in local recitals and made a name for himself as a versatile, valuable band member. Over the years Brent toured and played with Canadian bands including The Bogart Brothers, Julio Ceraa Band, Vision, Brickhouse, Ventilation Pipe and Blue-Eyed Soul.
In 1990 Brent married Linda, the love of his life and together they had three children, Mariah,Tasha and Dustin.
Brent was a dedicated, loving and supportive partner for Linda. He encouraged her in all her endeavours and supported her through her personal growth journey. He loved her unconditionally, pushing her when needed, nurturing her through her difficulties, and celebrating her successes. Together they enjoyed supporting local music, exploring independent restaurants, walking near the water, going for drives and spending quality time with family and friends.
As his family grew Brent chose to work closer to home composing and songwriting. He composed and recorded multiple instrumental albums including Images and Themes (Vol 1 and 2) Calling Card and 2 B King for a Day. He collaborated with amazing musicians over the years and recorded under the name Tenku and JJJames. Brent’s music was covered by independent artists who appreciated his music for its pure artistry and originality. We believe that the majority of Brent’s musical inspiration was rooted in love. He also enjoyed composing songs for family including Victor’s Polka, Love Is, and Song for Dot. His library of music will forever bring comfort to those who loved him.
Brent’s other passion was his N.L.P. counselling. He took great comfort in helping those in need navigate through difficult times. His ability to connect with people on a very deep and meaningful level was extraordinary.
After living in Vancouver and Edmonton, Brent settled in Nanaimo. He connected into the community through music, Unity of Nanaimo and newcomer groups. He continued to work on his music and enjoyed supporting local musical talent. He continued to offer his counselling skills within the community and was extremely generous with his time to anyone in need. Brent stayed closely connected to his children and was incredibly proud of the kind, thoughtful, loving and supportive adults that they all grew up to be.
Brent will be memorialized with a Living Reef Memorial that will be placed in Piper’s Lagoon. He will become the foundation of new underwater life. A Celebration of Life will be held in the summer with the date to be determined. Please add your favourite memory or story about Brent on the Tribute wall below., With thanks…
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Brent James KING May 26 2021..
Death notice for the town of: Ladysmith, Province: Colombie britanique