THIESEEN, Brian

THIESSEN BRIAN FREDRICK THIESSEN departed this life on January 12, 2026 at the age of 63 after receiving a devastating cancer diagnosis only three weeks prior. Many of us lost “our person” that day. Our protector, a man who was authentic and was valued for his common-sense. Leading his life with honesty and understanding, anything that mattered had already been said.
Brian spent his formative years in Edmonton. Working hard was a given, playing hard was a privilege. At age twelve, he began working summers for his father’s business, Freeway Construction. He was pushed to the limit, learning that there were no perks involved with being the boss’s son. No, he needed to work even harder. Mother Nature was in charge and there was no time for hurt feelings. Brian earned his place on the road crew. Socially, Brian was the organizer, the gatherer of people. Many extraordinary and unbelievable tales were spoken about from this time in his life. Relationships formed during these years continued through the passage of time. After graduating from Jasper Place School, Brian spent long periods on the road, operating machinery, enjoying the seasonal work which afforded him the ability to ski, most memorably in Europe. Many trips were made with the Downhill Riders where what happened on the mountain stayed on the mountain.
Brian advanced his role in road construction when he obtained an education in Civil Engineering from NAIT. He became a Project Manager, living in Edmonton, Vancouver and eventually in Lethbridge working for Wells Construction. In 2000, Brian met Tara. Without hesitation, they knew very quickly; the search was over, they were all in. They were blessed to have a son they hoped for, Mason who is the best of Brian.
Venturing out of their comfort zone, Brian and Tara took a calculated risk and became entrepreneurs. They worked together for 16 years, moving throughout the western provinces, owning three businesses, and renovating their homes. Brian was exceptional with numbers and projections. He was also able to trouble shoot and resolve mechanical problems with ease. Brian would always say, “If you’re not movie star handsome then at least be handy.” Tara marveled at his ability to look at a design and bring it to life. His work was evident in every home they lived in. He also had the scars to prove it.
Brian’s ease in life was admirable. He didn’t complicate things. Tomorrow was always a new day, a fresh start. If he made a commitment, he saw it through. If his family was happy, then he would be as well. He always had something planned, to look forward to. Rarely, did he ever turn down an opportunity for an adventure and to Tara’s surprise he had great 80’s dance moves. Brian was predictable; he always forgot to turn off the lights and always needed ice. He hated waiting in lines unless it meant getting the coveted front seat of a rollercoaster.
There were many memorable family trips to exotic locations, but it was always camping that created the lasting memories. Brian shined outdoors in the woods. Sitting around the campfire was the reward for a life well lived. Focusing on connections away from life’s demands. Mason witnessed the best of his dad during their annual fishing trip to Hihium.
Early retirement suited Brian. There was no shame in becoming a house husband. He took great pride in the meals he prepared. His passion for golf was unwavering. Endlessly tweaking his game working towards the ultimate goal, Senior’s PGA or more realistically, breaking 80. Winter in our basement entailed hours of putting practice fully dressed in his golf attire. Brian was in great shape. He was proud to rival younger players.
Brian’s absence is profound. We are learning to carry him in a different way than we planned. He will not be forgotten; there are so many memories to remember. Moving forward, one day at a time with him, becoming one, was my pleasure. The love remains immense.
Left to hold the memories tightly are Brian’s wife of 26 years, Tara Perdue; their son, Mason Thiessen who he affectionately called, “My Boy”; his father, Fred (Anne) Thiessen; his sister, Kolleen (Darren) Paches; his brother, Darren (Jeanine) Thiessen; his aunts, Jeannette Kirchner and Mary (Lorn) Sanderson; his mother-in-law, Linda Perdue; his sister-in-law, Lisa Perdue; nieces and nephews who will always remember his laugh and Hugh Grant eyes; numerous friends including best friend, Wendell Joseph.
Brian was predeceased by his mother, Joan Thiessen; uncle, Lee Kirchner; his father-in-law, Ken Perdue; lifelong friend, Darren McCann and his bonus family, Bonk, Kita and Lexi.
To recognize Brian’s life and help others with Cancer, please consider donating plasma.
As per Brian’s wish, Celebrations of Life were to occur later in the golf season. The following days will be dedicated to him.
Saturday, August 29th in Edmonton at Uncle Glenns Eatery & Sports Pub, 7666 – 156 St NW. Come-and-go event begins at 4:00 P.M. Please contact Kolleen for further details.
Saturday, September 26th in Lethbridge with a round of golf at Paradise Canyon followed by food and cheer at the family home. Tara will reach out with further details.

To send a condolence, please visit www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com