Obituary of Brian DesRoches

It is with heavy hearts that the family announces the passing of Brian DesRoches on Friday, December 19, 2025, at the age of 70. Born on January 5, 1955, in Summerside, PE, he was the son of the late Dolor and Bernice (Mitton) DesRoches.

Brian is survived by his daughter, Kristyn Kelsey (Reed); spouse, Wendy DesRoches; sister, Lynn Cousins (Martin); nephews, Riley Cousins and Jason DesRoches; as well as his cousins. In addition to his parents, Brian was predeceased by his brother, Michael.

Brian grew up curious about the world around him. He graduated from Summerside High School and attended Holland College in Charlottetown, where he met his wife, Wendy, whom he married in September 1975. He began his career in banking as a loans officer, spent some time in northern New Brunswick, and eventually settled in Fredericton in 1977, where he put down roots. Brian spent the better part of his career serving his clients through his Allstate Insurance agency; serving his customers brought him great joy. He was extremely personable and loved getting to know people, where he became one of Allstate’s best salesmen, with these successes earning him awards and trips all over the world.

Brian was an avid painter and golfer who found great joy in capturing the beauty of nature in his lifelike still lifes. He had a remarkable eye for lighting in both painting and photography, and while he sold some of his artwork, many pieces were given as cherished gifts or kept in his personal collection.

When he was not on the green or at his easel, Brian could often be found in one of his favourite local coffee houses. A passionate guitar player, he performed at open mic nights around the city of Fredericton and loved listening to local musicians, rarely missing a jazz festival.

Brian also treasured stimulating conversation shared over a fine cup of coffee. Though he had a Mensa-level genius IQ, he approached every interaction with humility and respect, bringing a sense of equality, kindness, and genuine interest to each exchange.

He found deep peace in the simple, focused moments of life—whether in the movement of a brush across canvas or the sound of guitar strings beneath his fingers. Those who knew Brian were left with a lasting sense of being truly seen and cared for, a testament to the quiet grace and compassion that defined his life.

He dedicated many years to volunteering within his church and the wider community. He served on the Executive Committee of the Fredericton Community Kitchens, focusing on providing nutrient-rich foods to those in need, a cause that was very dear to his heart.

As much as he was dedicated to his community and loved people, he did not love anyone more than his beloved daughter, Kristyn. He was a devoted father and always held her in the highest place in his heart. The two were often inseparable, and Kristyn went on to share his trait of loving others deeply. He will be unspeakably missed by many friends and family alike.  

Visitation will be held at McAdam's Funeral Home on Friday, December 26, from 3:00 - 6:00 pm. A memorial service will be held at McLeod Hill Assembly, 171 McLeod Hill Road in Fredericton, on Saturday, December 27, 2025 at 2:00 pm. A live stream of the service will be available to view at the following link: https://vimeo.com/event/5614445?fl=so&fe=fs. For those who wish, donations in Brian's memory may be made to the NB Lung or Fredericton Community Kitchens Inc.