April 1, 1955-January 26, 2024
The family of Brian (Buck) Dryer, also affectionately known as Coach Bucky, is very saddened to announce his passing on January 26th at 68 years of age. Forever grateful to have shared his life journey is his wife of 43 years Cheryl; sons Andy (Lauren), Craig (Kylie), Todd (Cydney) and Brady (Kendra). He was proud to be known as Papa Buck to grandchildren Connor, Jay, Anna, Lily and Sterling. Brian will be lovingly remembered by his mother Dorothea, twin brother Bruce (Cherrith), sister Joanne, and brother Tom (ZiMee). Also mourning Brian’s loss are his brothers-in-law Kel (Janice) Connor, Colin Connor and sister-in-law Deb (Pat) Bignell, as well as 10 nieces and nephews and 5 great nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father John and his parents-in-law Jack and Isabella Connor.
Brian was born in Calgary on April 1, 1955 to Dorothea and John Dryer. He grew up in the Glenbrook neighborhood and attended Viscount Bennett High School. In 1977 Brian graduated from the forestry program at NAIT and entered the career of his dreams as a forest officer for the Government of Alberta. His first forestry job was in Whitecourt where he also trained for and joined the volunteer fire department.
As a young 23 year old firefighter he responded to an emergency call that greatly impacted his life. He was injured in that house fire and suffered severe life altering burns to his body. Despite this tragic event he was not deterred from pursuing his career with forestry, eventually achieving a career highlight as an Air Attack Officer.
Brian, coach Bucky, was a very beloved football coach with St. Albert Minor Football and Bellerose High School over the years. Having played high school football at Viscount Bennett he was thrilled when his sons showed an interest in football at a young age. That love of the game became a family passion that lives on and led him to have the opportunity of coaching his grandchildren the past 4 years.
It’s difficult to imagine that someone who is a dedicated football coach and a seasoned forestry officer would have an artistic side – his family enjoyed the harmonica, endured the accordion but, never one to be quiet, his favourite instrument of choice was the bass trombone. Brian was so proud to be a member of the St Albert Community Band and the Jazz Band and to perform in their concerts.
Brian also loved to swim and was known for his regular presence at Fountain Park, Servus Place and Grosvenor pools. As much as he loved to swim and work out he also thrived on the companionship he had with his fellow swimmers. Brian’s family is planning a celebration of his life in mid April in St. Albert. The details will be shared when they are finalized.
Memorial donations in Brian’s name, if desired, may be made directly to the Edmonton Fire Fighters Burn Treatment Society at www.efbts.ca .
To send condolences, please visit www.connelly-mckinley.com
Connelly-McKinley Funeral Home
St. Albert Chapel
(780) 458-2222
