Brian Wayne McKinnon

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Brian Wayne Mckinnon, 66 of Brooklyn, Queens County Nova Scotia after a courageous fight with cancer. Brian passed away peacefully at Queens General Hospital on August 5, 2026. Born in Liverpool Brian was the son of the late Violet and Russell Mckinnon.

Brian was a man whose quick wit, infectious laugh, and remarkable strength left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He had an incredible talent for woodworking, a creative mind, and a natural gift with numbers. Whether building something with his hands or solving a problem, Brian approached everything with skill, determination, and pride.

A red seal carpenter by trade, Brian later became a planner at Bowater Paper Company Ltd in Brooklyn Nova Scotia where his co-workers affectionately nicknamed him Harley. In both his carpentry and planner job, his sharp mind and attention to detail served him well. Following the closure of the paper mill, Brian once again demonstrated his resilience by retraining as a class 3 driver, embracing the new chapter with the same determination that defined his life.

Brian shared a special bond with his brother, Ernie. Together they enjoyed day trips, exploring new places, sharing laughs, reminiscing of old memories and making new ones that will be forever treasured. Those who knew Brian will remember his unwavering strength, his creativity, and his sharp sense of humor. He worked hard, loved deeply, and faced life’s challenges with courage and determination. His legacy lives on in the beautiful things he built, the lives he touched, and the love he leaves behind.

Brian will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Though he is no longer with us, his laughter, will remain in the hearts of those who loved him.

Brian is lovingly remembered by his daughter Mandy (Fred) Holborn of Brooklyn, and his son, Chad Schrader (Heather Banfield) of Lunenburg County; and by his cherished grandchildren, Hunter, Neely, Taylor, Paige and Cameron, each of whom brought him immense pride and happiness. Brian is also survived by his siblings, Ernie Mckinnon (Aneitra) of Bridgewater, Jeff Mckinnon (Hannah) of Beach Meadows, Linda Balcom of Ottawa, and Beverly Matheson (Willam “Bill”) of Dartmouth.

Besides his parents, Brian was predeceased by his wife Brenda Mckinnon and his sisters, Sandra Mckinnon and Patricia Conrad.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Chandlers’ Funeral Home. A graveside service to take place on Friday, August 21st, 2026, at 2pm at Brooklyn Community Cemetery with a celebration of life to follow at 67 Hillside Road. No flowers by request, donations may be made to Queens County Transit or Queens General Hospital. Online condolences may be made to www.chandlersfuneral.com.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Alison Freeman and the exceptional nursing and continuing care staff at Queens General Hospital, VON and home support for the compassionate care, comfort and dignity they provided to Brian during the final days of his life. Your kindness, dedication, and support brought great comfort to both Brian and his family, and for that, we will be forever grateful.