BRIAN THOMA SCHMUNK

BRIAN THOMA SCHMUNK February 19, 1958 – February 2, 2024 With heavy hearts the family of Brian Thomas Schmunk announce his passing into the arms of our Lord and Saviour on Friday, February 2, 2024, at the age of 65 years. Brian led a carefree life until struggling physically for months without a complaint following his second heart valve transplant in the summer of 2023, amongst many other conditions including COPD, CHF, kidney disease and blindness. Brian leaves behind his siblings, Pat (Donna) Schmunk, Robert (Sheila) Schmunk, Mary Lou Schmunk (Rod Schlachter) as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father, Otto Schmunk; mother, Theresa Schmunk (nee Fitzgerald) as well as his brother, Terry Schmunk. In Brian’s younger years, he enjoyed hockey after school and did very well. During his teen years, he played football and continued fishing at every chance. He drifted through the halls occasionally at McCoy High School but was frequently found at the pool hall. Up until a few years ago, he cleared the table at pool when given the opportunity to play. Brian’s life career was welding, and a very good welder her was. His precision and patience in this field employed him at numerous companies spanning through SK., AB and BC. In mid life, he established ‘Independent Services’ and often helped numerous farmers in the area for little or no payment. In leisure (which he frequently preferred over work), he was very often found at his favourite fishing hole. He also enjoyed listening to a wide variety of music, from Do-ops to Brightman and Bocelli. He was extremely knowledgeable when it came to history, politics and current affairs. When asked about any of these topics, he effectively and objectively could fill you in, but he always ended with his subjective opinion. Brian was a passionate Oilers fan, but never rubbed it in to Flames fans. He said he felt sorry for them and that would be rude… touché! Brian travelled frequently to Thailand and neighbouring areas. He thoroughly enjoyed each and every trip, but said he very strongly regrets and would advise never to eat from what looks like a hot dog stand in a foreign country. Brian was an extremely sensitive soul who frequently would give the shirt off his back and always looked after the underdog anyway he could. He always made people laugh. Sometimes they’d laugh right away, but sometimes the laughter didn’t come until years later, whether Brian had borrowed his brother’s vehicles or tested their patience in some other way! He was known for his lack of patience, loudly cursing in public and laughing inappropriately in almost every situation including church settings, weddings, family gatherings and birthdays. He definitely made events memorable! Family (some) still belly laugh about his antics today. Brian never married or had children, but he did have a well loved crosseyed cat he called Puss Puss. The cat frequently followed him around town on his evening walks to meet up with the coffee gang who he spoke fondly of. Brian was also especially fond of his nephew, Matthew Schoop, who he recently moved in with before his passing. Brian and Matt spent numerous hours together watching hockey, eating out and conversing about work. Brian mentored Matt in every way possible through their time spent together. Brian was surely unique, he taught his loved ones much, and they will miss him dearly. He softened a lot over the past few years. Brian will be grately missed by many who could see the goodness that was always deep inside. Family extend their tremendous and heartfelt gratitude to the tolerant and patient staff at the Medicine Hat and Leader Hospitals. Details about a Mass honouring Brian’s memory as well as his interment at Hillside Cemetery will be announced at a future date. (Condolences may be expressed at www.cooksouthland.com) Honoured to serve the family is

Cook Southland Funeral
Chapel Crematorium &
Reception Facility
901 – 13th Street S.W.
Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 4V4
Phone 403-527-6455
www.cooksouthland.com
“Locally owned & directed”