Brian Francis MCKENNA

1945 - 2023

BRIAN FRANCIS MCKENNA It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Brian McKenna on May 5, 2023 in Montreal, surrounded by family who loved him deeply. Brian was one of Canada's foremost documentary filmmakers, directing and producing over sixty films that shaped Canadians' understanding of our country's politics, wartime history and place in the world. Over his half-century career, his work was recognized with dozens of awards, including the Governor General's History Award for 'his exceptional ability to tackle the challenges of communicating history through a modern media with originality, determination, and a deep respect for those whose stories he tells.' Brian McKenna was born in Montreal on August 8, 1945, to parents, Leo Francis McKenna and Agatha MacDonell, and lived his entire life in the city he loved. Brian had no tolerance for bullies, and fought for justice throughout his life. He cherished his large extended family and the many friends and colleagues he made throughout his work and travels. He was always up for a latte, talking politics, and relitigating the JFK assassination. Brian was a gifted raconteur, and his dynamic passage through life gave him much to draw upon. Brian is survived by his life partner, Renee Baert; his children, Robin (Jon Hyman), Katie (Caitlin) (Matthew Thompson), Conor (Amanda Kline); and their mother, Susan Purcell; Emma and Tess; and their mother, Anne Lagace Dowson; his grandchildren, Leo, Aedan and Dylan; siblings, William (Bill), Joan, John and Terence; and his lifelong friend Stephen Phizicky. A memorial will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 20, at Les Espaces Memoria at 4231 Saint-Laurent. Limited valet parking is available; taxis or transit are recommended. Wear mourning clothes with a splash of colour. Memorial contributions can be made to Canadian Journalists for Free Expression at cjfe.org.