With his family by his side, Brian Kitson passed away on August 7, 2025, at his home. He will forever be missed and remembered by his wife of 49 years, Elaine (Bernhardt); son Michael and wife Delka; daughter Laura and husband Scott; grandchildren Toren, Tabitha, and Daphne; sister Myrna and husband Ted; along with many friends, family, and others he met along the way.
He was predeceased by his parents Thomas “Bud” and Margaret Kitson (Coubrough). Brian was born and lived his entire life in Portage la Prairie, helping build a community he loved.
Brian’s first passion was cars - especially the classics - and he began his career at Smith Motors before joining his dad at Kitson’s Service. After working together for years, Brian took over the family business with his wife, and together they grew the company for more than 20 years. Brian could always be found in the tow truck or working (sometimes napping) under a vehicle. A true family business, his kids had their times working alongside him or simply hanging out in the truck or shop.
Brian loved his family and friends and was loved beyond measure. Always the first to offer help and the last to quit working, his sense of humor was unmatched (and often questionable). There was never a problem he couldn’t solve or an issue he couldn’t fix. He loved to travel & explore, Brian spent his retirement taking multiple trips each year with his wife Elaine, family and friends.
Always dependable, a steady shoulder to lean on, Brian’s kindness left a mark on everyone who knew him. The world will never be the same without him. Honor his memory by lending a hand, sharing a laugh, and loving your community as he did.
A celebration of Brian’s life will take place at the Glesby Centre on Friday, August 15, 2025 at 2:00 pm. Interment will take place at Evergreen Memorial Gardens Columbarium at a later date. The service will be livestreamed, to register and view the service visit Brian’s obituary page at http://www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Brian’s memory to the Central Plains Cancer Services, CancerCare Manitoba Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society or PAWS.
A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. http://www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com