Brian Llewellyn EVANS

Gone for over a year now but not forgotten. Missing you, your smile and your spirit.

Debbie

Thinking of you brings me to tears,
But they are tears of much laughter and joy through the years

Dr. Evans taught me Chinese history at the U of A in 1971 and he remained a friend ever after. Partly because of that class, I got more and more interested in China, and ended up going to China, learning Chinese, and practising law in Hong Kong for 26 years. I saw less of him after I left Edmonton in 1981, but we saw each other in Hong Kong when he was visiting, and more recently in Edmonton when I was home visiting my parents. He was always friendly and positive to me and all his students, and for many of us he made a tremendous difference to our lives. I will never forget him.

I was only his student for one course in 1977-78an evening survey of Chinese history from pre-history to the cultural revolution in which we almost covered a dynasty an evening. By mixing in his personal experiences and insights, slides (the state of the art those days) and emphasizing the key themes and nuances through the centuries, we were given insight that still informs understanding of one of the major countries and cultures of our world and the universal metaphor of the mandate of heaven'.

I knew a little more about Brian than most students as my father had taught for a couple of years at Taber when Brian was a student (though he didn't teach him). In one of the first classes, Brian asked me to stay during the break (what had I done?) to ask about my father and he later asked about me when meeting my parents at Rick & Alice's café or at the Taber reunion. People he'd once known always mattered to him.

What inspired me was his journey from Taber to being an expert on China and part of the re-opening of contact between our countries. It showed that if you were passionately interested in something, you could literally and figuratively get there.

Uncle Brian, you will be missed. Although I did not see you often you were always in my heart. Rest in Peace.

Professor Evans was one of my favourite professors at the U of A and I have very fond memories of his lectures on Chinese history. He will be missed by his many students.

We will always cherish our memories of you, Uncle Brian and your sense of humour will truly be missed. You had a passion, China and were able to fulfil your dream in life. Rest in peace.

Uncle Brian you will be missed. Although I did not see you often you were always in my heart.

Love Mary MacAlpine

My dear friend Brian I will miss you so much! We had so many great times together and I sincerely enjoyed working with you on the "100 Anniversary of Edmonton's China Town". You touched everyone you met with warmth and kindness. May you rest in peace.

We will miss Uncle Brian always. There are few people in this world that gave so much inspiration to family, friends and colleagues .
this little cat is for you and Mookie

Love always
Al and Debbie Habberfield