Terence Richard Brynildsen

With much heartbreak, we share the passing of our Husband, Grandpa & Dad, Terry, who passed away on February 4, 2026, at 88 years old. It’s hard to put into words the space he leaves behind – our hearts and our home are missing him so, so much. He was a loving husband, a proud Dad and the most devoted Grandpa – a kind, gentle soul who made us feel safe, steady and deeply loved every day.

Terry was born in Vancouver BC on January 5, 1938, and grew up in Bella Coola BC. He grew up loving the outdoors, and his nickname ‘Isador’ stayed with him throughout his lifetime, with his long-time friends still calling him Isador.

While attending vocational school (auto mechanics) in Nanaimo he met his wife, Wendy. They were married in 1963 and raised two daughters, Shelley and Tanya. Through the years Terry & Wendy lived in Bella Coola, Terrace, Prince Rupert and settled in Port Edward for 20+ years where they raised Shelley and Tanya. So many memories in that house on Alder Ave, from annual Halloween parties and snowball fights, to card nights with friends, some great times were had!  In retirement Terry and Wendy moved to Nanaimo and later to Port Coquitlam with Shelley and her family.

Terry’s work ethic was like no other and he took great pride in building his own business, Brynildsen Trucking. He believed in showing up, putting in the work and doing things right. We are so incredibly thankful and proud of him.

Terry was a storyteller - he loved to share stories about growing up in Bella Coola and his adventures through the years. Whether it be about grizzly bear and other wildlife encounters, his pet crow, coming across artifacts at a work site, the old cars he owned; there were many! We will miss those stories so much — full of laughter, mischief, and memories.

Camping was one of Terry’s greatest joys. He and Wendy, with Shelley & Tanya, spent many weekends sitting around campfires with good friends, rain or shine ('large' fires and tarps were a must) - so many laughs and great memories. In retirement, Terry and Wendy loved their ‘snowbird’ trips to Arizona with their 5th Wheel and camping in the desert. In later years he loved his time at Horne Lake where he and Wendy would spend every summer, always with the grandkids in tow! He was always tinkering with one project or another and was happiest with tools in his hand and a plan in mind! He enjoyed sitting with friends & just enjoying the view - the lake was his happy place.

Terry was a huge fan of hockey and especially loved watching the Canucks. He rarely missed a chance to cheer them on, or our Canadian National teams! He had a love of good food, especially seafood, and loved to cook. 

But above everything else, his life was his grandchildren, Rachel & Keegan. They were his pride and joy, and he was a part of their lives every day. He was always there for them and his love for them was constant and unconditional. The summers at the lake with him and Grandma every year are lifelong memories for Rach and Keegs. What an impact he has had on their lives. As a Dad, his support and love were unwavering, making us feel safe and knowing he was always there for us - the BEST Dad and Grandpa we could ever ask for!

Terry is survived by his wife of 63 years Wendy, daughter Shelley, son-in-law Roland, Grandson Keegan (Lauren), Granddaughter Rachel (George), his sister-in-law Linda (Doug), several nephews & a niece, his fur-baby, Emma, and his fur-grandbaby Poe. Emma and Poe are still looking for him for their treats that he always had at hand for them.

Terry was sadly pre-deceased by his loving daughter Tanya, a loss that stayed with him and a hurt he carried quietly in his heart. We take comfort in knowing that he now has her in his arms. They are together, and that brings peace.

Terry was also pre-deceased by his parents, Alger & Olive, his brother Lloyd (Faye) and his sister Beverley (Stener).

We will miss him every minute of every day — his quiet presence, his stories, his comforting hugs, his fish cakes, his shrimp cocktails with his secret sauce at Christmas, his zucchini pancakes at the lake, his need to have ‘crispy’ calamari, his determination to win the lottery, his reminders to drive safely, fish & chips on Father's Day ... and so much more.

Rest easy Grandpa xoxo

Forever loved. Forever missed.