Obituary of Brian Roderick Armstead

November 23, 1960 – Calgary, Alberta

August 13, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Brian Armstead of Calgary, AB, passed away on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at the age of 63 years.

Brian graduated from the Crescent Heights High School. He attended Chicago State University for two years, and University of Calgary for two years.

Brian accomplished much through his life and was particularly proud of being the Canadian National Competitive Swimming record holder in numerous events (11 & 12 age groups, and 13&14 age group), he was a member of the University of Calgary men's CIAU champion team, obtaining a full scholarship to the University of Chicago, and numerous Alberta age records. He was a Taekwondo Canadian Champion, and a team member of the 1985 World Championship Taekwondo team in Seoul, Korea.

Coach Kim Thomas traveled with him to Seoul for support/cheering and then they traveled around for a month in Korea. Kim has been there for our family for over 50-years. Thank you, Coach Kim. Brian would call him at least five times a day, sometimes just to say hi. Kim never said no, he even took him to a church picnic, pushing him a great distance. Mom just laughed knowing Brian thoroughly enjoyed himself.

He worked for Via Rail for a number of years, until his first stroke which drove him to retire. Brian would give the shirt off his back if someone needed it and this was shown while working for Via Rail, a newlywed couple missed their connection and wouldn't be able to get on another train for three days, so of course, he said don't worry, you can stay at our house to these complete strangers, and Mom and Dad of course welcomed them with smiles. 

Brian enjoyed hunting, fishing, basketball, football, and walking the neighborhood dogs, he always had at least 5 dogs; his favorite pets were Reb, Duke, and Dreyco.

Some of Brian’s favorite foods were Peter’s Drive In milkshakes (root beer malted, his dad’s favorite also), ham and pineapple pizza, red licorice, and of course Chinese food. When you asked, “do you like it?” Brian would say “no, but can I have some more please.”

Brian attended church with his mom every Sunday, which included Sunday School (Standard Church). There was not a scripture he didn't know, or a song he didn't sing or clap along to. Even with all the strokes he had (over forty), he still managed to swim three times a week (twenty laps), and participate in bible study. Brian was always willing to try new things, and he was always smiling, even boating and downhill skiing in a wheelchair.

He is survived by his mom Joan Armstead, brother Jamie Armstead (Cheryl), sister Debbie Heath (Al), niece Chanelle Armstead/Walker, nephews Taylor Armstead (Emma), and Justin Grant, great-nieces and nephews Taysia, Alana, Gucci, and Beyonce, and great-great-niece Ade. He is also survived by his best friends Carson Patterson, Coach/Santa Kim Thomas, Dave Birkett, and Bob Marble.

Brian was predeceased by his father Algeron (Algie) Armstead, grandparents J.B. and Annie Brown, and Seward and Mary Armstead.
 

A Celebration of Brian's Life will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB) on Saturday, August 31, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home.

Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Mr. Armstead’s service streamed live (see link below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Brian’s family here.

In living memory of Brian Armstead, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.

Click to Sign the Video Guest Book and Watch the Celebration of Brian's Life