July 10, 1942 – February 3, 2026
Brian Philip Marchand, from Thunder Bay, Ontario, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving daughter Rhonda, her husband Jonathan, and his dear granddaughters Brooklynn, Valkyrie, and Gwendolyn.
He is survived by his daughters Rhonda Marchand (Watts) and family, Cheryl Marchand (Ellis) and family, along with Leanne Marchand. He was predeceased by his father Phillip Marchand (1946); mother Mary Panas (Marsh) (1996); and stepfather Edward Marsh (2015).
Brian was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba but moved to Thunder Bay with his family when he was young. After the loss of his father, his mother Mary opened Marchand Grocery on John Street in Port Arthur. Brian spent a lot of time delivering groceries and newspapers around the neighborhood, building lasting friendships with many locals.
While in high school, Brian met the love of his life and together they raised three daughters. He worked at the Marathon paper mill before spending many years at the Thunder Bay paper mill where he eventually retired as Head Electrician in the mid-1990s.
From a young age throughout his life, Brian loved to be with family and friends while tinkering on mechanical projects. His lifelong interests included snowmobiles and cars which led to his last major project-a carefully crafted 1928 Pontiac Chief of the Sixes street rod. He dedicated countless hours to this car alongside his close friend Oscar as they built their cars together in Brian’s garage.
Brian had a knack for fixing almost anything while sharing “Brian 101” lessons about how things should be done. As a grandparent, he cherished every moment spent with Rhonda, her husband Jonathan, and his adored granddaughters-his “sweeties”-who brought him immense happiness.
Papa will be deeply missed.
A Hot Rod tribute cruise along with a private celebration of life will take place at a later date.
Condolences may be made through www. nwfainc. com
