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In Memory of James Brian

James Brian, February 15, 1950 – January 25, 2025

Our beloved former executive director, James Brian, crossed the threshold peacefully at home this past Saturday morning, following a struggle with lymphoma. James was an exceptional person in so many ways. His contribution to Rudolf Steiner College Canada was remarkable. He enabled us to become a career college and led both the administration and the Waldorf grades programs. Those of us who had the chance to work closely with him will always remember his devotion to anthroposophy, his personal wisdom, his creativity, his warm support for our students, and his humility. James was never one to seek the spotlight but continually supported others so they could shine and be appreciated. James’ knowledge of anthroposophy was profound and he was grateful for having found spiritual science at a young age, as it provided direction for much of his life. He made friends easily and his life brought him in touch with many in our movement. He was also a bridge-builder and enabled many people to find their way to anthroposophy, most notably his work with Indigenous communities through the Douglas Cardinal Foundation for Indigenous Waldorf Education and his many personal relationships with Indigenous people. James had a deep trust in the spiritual world that fired the sun-warmth energy of his heart. He never gave up and found a way to do many wonderful things. We know that James brings a great harvest of knowledge and merit with him as he travels into the spiritual world. In one form or another, we will keep working together!

Robert McKay, Board Chair, on behalf of RSCC

MEMORIAL SERVICE UPDATE: James Brian’s memorial will be on Thursday, February 13, 2025, 9:30 am arrival, 10:00 am service, at Racine, Robert et Gauthier Funeral Home 180 Montreal road, Ottawa K1L 1B4. The funeral will be streamed for those not able to attend. Click here for obituary and livestream link.

Merwin Lewis was moved to write this acrostic poem for James:

In the Service of Dreams

for James Brian

Join hands, my friends, and form a ring
As a bell tolls for this
Man. On any winter
Evening when stars breathe their light and
Snow lies deep in silent thought,
Bring your tiny boats, your gifts, to the
River. With a gentle push, send them off
Into the singing stream of life
And remember how he carried himself:
Nobly, with purpose, in the service of dreams.

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In Memory of James Brian

In Memory of James Brian

James Brian, February 15, 1950 - January 25, 2025 Our beloved former executive director, James Brian, crossed the threshold peacefully at home this past Saturday morning, following a struggle with lymphoma. James was an exceptional person in so many ways. His...

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Rudolf Steiner College Canada is a charitable corporation dedicated to educating future generations of Waldorf teachers and making anthroposophy accessible to a wider public. We are able to continue our work thanks to generous donations from our community of supporters over the years.