Joe W. BRYANT

July 14, 1949 - November 04, 2025

Saanich Firefighter, ret'd Capt., loving father, dear brother, uncle and friend, has hung up his helmet for the last time. Grieving hard are his "peeps", Sami, Carroll and Larry, Tena and Alan, Kathy "the hurricane" and Ken, his "muscle" Rory and Dylan, Hayley, and his many other family and friends. Predeceased by his parents, George and Ivah Bryant, and his dear Aunt "Syl" Sylvia Kennedy.

Joe was a hero to his family and friends, and to the Saanich community. As a first responder for over 30 years, he was one of the unknown and unsung heroes who showed up for people on their life-altering worst days. Joe was exceptionally kind, incredibly hard working, and had a big, generous heart. Joe was a loyal friend and always true to his word.

Joe was a skilled mechanic, machinist, metalworker, welder, and woodworker. He would do anything he could to help family and friends, and was known for stopping to help a stranger who needed assistance. He took pride in his work, he never expected much, and he appreciated every opportunity life gave him.

Joe enjoyed learning, building, creating, fixing, and restoring. He loved his tractor, cool cars, hot rods, and vintage motorcycles. Joe could identify the make, model and year of any vintage car or motorcycle from a mile away. Joe was the guy we all went to for "how to" advice, and he would always help you with patience and a lot of enthusiasm. Joe loved all animals, but especially his rescue dogs, and spent many happy hours watching all of the birds and wildlife near his pond.

Cancer has always hit the firefighting profession hard. Joe used to say "there are no old firefighters". Joe served before modern advances improved safety equipment. We once asked him, knowing what was to come, if he would have chosen the same career. He replied "I absolutely loved my job, it was the best career in the world. I wouldn't have changed a thing".

Joe smiled through everything, and was unfailingly polite, gracious, and grateful to those who helped him medically.

We adored Joe. We will miss his wonderful stories, his kindness, and strength of character. He was an honourable man, and definitely one of the good guys.

An open house reception for Joe will be held on Sunday, December 14th. Please contact Hayley at 236-464-3268 or hayleybryantg@gmail.com for details.
Donations can be made to the BC professional firefighters burn fund in Joe's memory.