Edward Brian Perks, a pioneering publisher, talented artist, and World War II evacuee, passed away peacefully on May 14th. He was in his 90th year.
Predeceased by his loving partner Marilyn Lindsay (2017). Loving father of Cindi and her husband Adrian McClughan of Whitby. Loving grandfather to Bryan & Brendan McClughan. Predeceased by his daughter Brenda Perks (1990).

Survived by his brother James Perks and his wife Beryl. Predeceased by his sister Beryl Burroughs (2023).

Born in England Brian immigrated to Canada in the 1950s, seeking new opportunities and adventures. He embarked on a remarkable journey, beginning his career as a reporter in Sudbury, St. Thomas, and Port Colborne, Ontario. His passion for storytelling and journalism laid the foundation for his future endeavors.

In the early 1960s, Brian's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish his own publishing company, E.B. Perks Publishing Company/Perks Publications Inc. His vision and dedication resulted in the creation of a series of successful trade magazines, providing valuable insights and resources to various industries.

Upon his retirement, Brian turned his focus to another lifelong passion: art. A remarkably artistic and talented individual, he delved into the world of mixed media, creating captivating pieces that showcased his creativity and unique perspective. Experimenting with different mediums, Brian utilized colored clay as a substitute for traditional oil paint, breathing life into his creations with vibrant hues and textures.

Brian's artistic endeavors were not in vain; his work garnered recognition and acclaim, earning him accolades in juried art competitions and securing placements in esteemed art galleries. His pieces, infused with emotion and skill, captured the imagination of viewers, and left a lasting impression on all who encountered them.

During his retirement, Brian wrote and published a book chronicling the tale of a young boy amidst the tumult of World War II, drawing from his own bleak and harrowing experiences as a child evacuee. Through his book he spoke to various classrooms and organizations in the Durham region, trying to educate children and teachers to gain an understanding and appreciation of supportive parenting by reviewing and debating the negative realities of the evacuation.

Amidst his creative endeavors, Brian held a special kinship with animals, their presence a testament to his tender heart. He leaves behind his cherished feline companion, Pastel, a silent witness to his unwavering kindness.

Brian’s family would like to thank the staff at the Chartwell Colonial Retirement home for their wonderful care, support and compassion. Also, a special thank you to the Palliative Care nursing staff at Lakeridge Health Oshawa.

The family invites all friends and family to join together and share in Brian’s memory at a Celebration of Life Reception at Barnes Memorial Funeral Home, 5295 Thickson Rd. N. Whitby on Saturday, June 15th, 2024 from 2:00 – 4:00 pm. Remembrances will be shared at 3:00 p.m.

If one word could encapsulate Brian's essence, it would undoubtedly be "kind." His empathy and his generosity were a beacon of light for all who crossed his path. Brian was an active participant in the pay-it-forward philosophy so the family asks that, in lieu of flowers, you honour his memory with a random act of kindness for a stranger or a donation to Humane Society of Durham Region (via the link below), just as Brian did tirelessly throughout his life.