Clayton Randall Brown

It is with shattered hearts that we say goodbye to our beloved husband, father, son, son-in-law, brother-in-law, uncle and friend. Randy passed away in the comfort of his home surrounded by his family and an abundance of love.

Randy was born on April 27, 1964 in Breton, Alberta and was raised in Gainsborough, Saskatchewan. Growing up in a small town shaped the man he became – good-hearted, grounded and genuine. Although he later left small town country living for the city, he never lost his humble, small town values. They were evident in his easy going nature, and the way he treated everyone with respect and kindness.

He was predeceased by his parents, Barry and Pam Brown; his cherished sister-in-law and dear friend, Kim Bahniuk, who held a very special place in his heart; his brother-in-law and true friend, Greg Zaborosky, whose friendship meant so much to him; and his loyal companion, Diesel, who was surely waiting for him at the Rainbow Bridge.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Brenda and his adored son and best friend Kayl. He also leaves to mourn his father-in-law and mother-in-law Lorentz and Phyllis Zaborosky; brother-in-law Jamie Bahniuk, nieces Kristin Bahniuk (Tyson) and Taylor Bahniuk (Brendan); his treasured great nieces and nephews Nixon, Knox, Axel, London and Lainey; nephews Neil Brown, Brady Brown and niece Alyssa Southam, as well as numerous extended family and lifelong friends.

Randy and Brenda met in Winnipeg in January of 1990, and from that very first meeting, their lives became deeply connected. What began as an instant connection grew into a lifelong friendship, a deep partnership, and a love that only became stronger with time. They were married for 34 wonderful years, standing side by side through every joy, every adventure, and every challenge life brought their way. Together they built a beautiful life in Winnipeg, Rosser, and eventually Elie, filling their home with laughter, family moments, and so many precious memories that became the foundation of their life together. They were each other’s greatest comfort, biggest cheerleader, and constant companion - a love story that endured until Randy’s final day.

Randy spent 17 years with CP Rail, where he earned the respect of those around him through his dedication, dependability and strong work ethic. The majority of his time with CP Rail was spent in a foreman position, a responsibility he earned at the remarkably young age of 17. At the time of his diagnosis, he was working at Ag West in Elie. Randy was the kind of person who showed up, worked hard and found purpose in providing for his family.

Randy was a proud member of the Masonic fraternity, an accomplishment that held special meaning for him. His participation gave him the opportunity to spend time alongside his father and the ability to share an important part of his life with him. He was naturally social and community-minded, and he valued the friendships, fellowship and connections that came through his involvement.

At the young age of 57, Randy was diagnosed with Frontotemporal Dementia. The progression was swift and difficult. At 61, he was also diagnosed with Prostate Cancer. Through every obstacle, Randy faced his health battles with remarkable strength, courage and quiet determination. From the very beginning of his diagnosis until his final moments, Randy was lovingly cared for at home by his wife, Brenda, and his son, Kayl – a testament to the deep love and unwavering commitment they shared as a small family.

Above all else, Randy was a true family man. His world revolved around his son Kayl. He devoted countless hours to hockey arenas, soccer fields, skateboard parks and especially motocross tracks. Randy spent endless days and evenings cleaning motocross gear, maintaining race bikes and traveling many miles across Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and throughout the United States for practices and races. There was nothing he loved more then being there for his son, supporting him and sharing in every success, milestone, and moment along the way. He was so incredibly proud of the man his son had become - his character, his integrity and his heart. His love for his son was immense, unshakable and evident in everything he did.

“Uncle” Randy shared a beautifully deep and meaningful relationship with his nieces Kristin and Taylor. He loved them as his own and took immense pride in being part of their lives, creating lasting memories together. They held a very special place in his heart. There was never a vacation, celebration, or event that he never included them in.

Randy was a true people person. He had a rare gift – the ability to make complete strangers feel comfortable and at ease. He could strike up conversation with anyone and leave them smiling. His warmth and easygoing nature drew people to him.

Randy was incredibly handy – a true fixer and builder. There was almost nothing he couldn’t repair, construct, or figure out. Whether it was a home renovation, mechanical repair, or a last minute project, he was always the first one family and friends called. He never hesitated to help. He gave his time generously, always willing to lend a hand, share his knowledge, and see a job through to the end. Helping others came naturally to him and brought him genuine happiness. He built Kayl an amazing jungle gym and even a skateboard half pipe, creating a backyard filled with adventure, laughter and unforgettable childhood memories for Kayl and the neighborhood kids.

He also had a special love for the outdoors and camping – something rooted in his childhood at the family cabin at White Bear and carried throughout his life. Whether around a campfire, traveling in the camper, or simply enjoying time outside with family, those moments brought him peace and contentment.

Randy embraced the holidays with genuine enthusiasm and took great delight in making each one memorable for Kayl. Halloween and Christmas were never just dates on the calendar, they were events. Randy poured his creativity and energy into building decorations, setting up elaborate displays and stringing up Christmas lights that brought joy to not only to his family but to everyone who passed by. He loved creating magic and memories, and his home reflected the pride and bliss he felt in celebrating with those he loved.

Randy loved to travel, from adventures across Canada and the United States to Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and his absolute favorite place – Jamaica. Four family trips to Disney World were among the many vacations he treasured. Randy embraced every opportunity to explore, experience new places, and make those moments special for his family.

Family was at the heart of Randy’s life and always his number one priority. His love was steady, loyal and unconditional. The legacy he leaves behind is one of compassion, generosity, inclusiveness, and the happiness he brought to the lives of those around him.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Michael Gray, Dr. Cornelius Woelk, Starbuck Homecare, Southern Health Palliative Care, and Marnie Cormier whose compassion, guidance and support made it possible for Randy to remain at home and fulfill his final wish of passing peacefully where he felt most loved. Brenda and Kayl are also deeply grateful for the steadfast support of extended family and friends during this time.

Randy your love built our life, and that love will forever hold us together. Heaven has gained a beautiful soul, but we know your love will never leave us. Your light will continue to guide us through the days ahead until the day we meet again. You were, and always will be, so deeply loved.

In keeping with Randy’s wishes there will be no funeral service or celebration of life. Our family will honor him privately in the days ahead.

As expressions of sympathy, donations can be made in Randy ’s memory to Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, 10-120 Donald Street Winnipeg, MB R3C 4G2 or CancerCare Manitoba Foundation, 1160 – 675 McDermot Avenue Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 0V9.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com