It is with heavy hearts that Gentech Engineering announces the passing of its principal engineer, Brian Johnson, on January 18, 2011.
Brian co-founded Gentech Engineering in August 1983 with friend and colleague Keith Bepple. The first projects for the new company were completed for the Village of Chase, a working relationship that is still maintained today! During subsequent years, additional long term Municipal, Provincial, First Nation and Private Sector clients were added - Salmon Arm +20 years, and City of Armstrong +20 years.
Brian was an avid horse racing (Harness) fan, and his crowning achievement was designing and overseeing track extension from the old ½ mile to new 5/8 mile track at Cloverdale Raceways (now Fraser Downs).
His sense of humour, dedication to quality service, and work ethic were an inspiration to clients, employees and friends alike. Brian often gave freely of his time, receiving an honourary Paul Harris Fellow from the Salmon Arm Rotary Club for his assistance and work at the Marine Wharf Park.
Brian had slowed down a little in the past few years, but was still working at his ‘second home’ (the office) 4 days a week up until being diagnosed with cancer in September 2010. His courage during his short battle with the disease was remarkable.
BJ will be sorely missed by all those that knew him.