1955
2017
Brian (Mitsi) Mitsunaga, age 61, passed away peacefully January 3, 2017 after an almost 1 year battle in both the Thunder Bay Regional and St. Joseph Hospital. He was born March 29, 1955 in Fort William. He was predeceased by his parents Sam and Si Mitsunaga and his sister-in-law Susan Mitsunaga.
He will be sadly missed by his brother Wayne (son Sammy), his stepmother Linda Petch, stepbrothers David and Michael Ford and families, as well as many cousins, aunts and uncles. Many thanks to his university buddies Greg, Joe and John who made sure Mitsi's days in the hospital were filled with many happy memories. Thanks as well to friend Karen and family who always made sure Brian had all the comforts of home. Mitsi attended Westgate Collegiate Vocational Institute and then Lakehead University where he graduated with a diploma in Chemical Engineering Technology. Upon graduation he worked for only one year in his field of study before finding his true calling, becoming a Class A Mechanic and working in the family business, Bear Safety Service. After taking over from his father Sam, he worked for more than 20 more years before having a stroke which led to an early retirement. During his working years he was an active member of Thunder Bay Garage Operators Association and loved running the annual golf tournament. He was also a member of the Ortona and Branch 6 Legion and played darts in the Lakehead Dart League and the Lancer Dart League. He also loved golf and had been a member of the Fort William Country Club.
A Celebration of Life for Mitsi will be held at First Wesley United Church, 130 Brodie Street, on Saturday, March 4, 2017 at 11am.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Jenkens Funeral Home - Thunder Bay Arbour Memorial.
8 Entries
View from my home
Christopher Roberts
February 12, 2019
I've been living in Japan for about 18 years, When I worked for Brian I can say some of his attributes originated from here. He was strict, hard, only settled for perfection with service. Taught me the business skills I utilize today here in Japan. He also had a soft side to him, I'm 51 now, I see what he saw when he hired me. I'm thankful that he made me the person I am business and skill wise.
Christopher Roberts
June 1, 2017
Condolences from Japan, I was fortunate to have Brian as a instructor in the automotive field. He was very hard on me and I appreciate the value of what he taught me today.. I would not be situated where I am in life without what he gave me in work and life instruction. So Mote it Be Rest In Peace Christopher Roberts Yamanashi Fujigane Japan.
March 3, 2017
Our sympathy to Wayne and Sammy. He was a great help in the yard for Wayne.
Gerry and Fae
Brad Johnston
February 21, 2017
He was an older brother to many of us Wayne sorry for your loss he will be remembered by many of the Begin Place Gang we had a lot of fun back then!
Jim Hamilton
February 20, 2017
Brian was the most honest mechanic I have ever met. He looked after many of my cars as well as my mothers car. I'm very sorry for your loss. He was a great guy.
Gayle Poohachoff
February 19, 2017
So sorry, Wayne, to hear of the loss of your brother. I know you were very close and you will surely miss him a lot.
Sincerely,
Gayle Poohachoff
February 19, 2017
Feb. 19,2017
To Brian's Family & Friends,
I am very sorry for loss. I knew Brian for the 20 years I worked for Fort Ignition/Napa. He was one of the nicest persons to help get his parts. Also friendly , even when we would meet elsewhere he would always say hi.
Sincerely
Art Dupuis
John Durica
February 19, 2017
My deepest condolences & sympathy , Brain was like an older brother to us younger pups.
R.I.P Mitsi
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