Passed away suddenly but peacefully on December 17, 2016, one day before his 59th birthday, wearing his J. Austin Hunting Club jersey. Beloved husband of 27 years, soul mate and adventure partner to Sherry (Gilfillan). Cherished Dad to his pride and joy Austin. Son of Kathryn “Kay” Penhale and the late Emerson Penhale. “Favourite” son-in-law of Bill and Grace Gilfillan. Brother and Brother-in-law to Doug and Julie Penhale, Sheila Penhale and Mark Penhale, Randy “Quinn” and Carolyn Gilfillan, Wendy Gilfillan, Rick and Dody Gilfillan, Tracy Gilfillan-MacVicar and Colin Campbell. Dear uncle to many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews. Brion will also be greatly missed by his hunting and golf companions and friends, his wit and humour will never be forgotten. Brion would want you to treasure the holiday season with your family and friends and please lift your glass and toast the “Smi” guy in celebration of his happy life.
Cremation has taken place and there will be no funeral service or visitation.
Donations to the South Huron Hospital Foundation or the South Huron Hospital Foundation – Jessica’s House would be appreciated by the family.
Haskett Funeral Home, Exeter 519 235-1220 entrusted with arrangements.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Rowland & Tricia Howe
Our condolences on the sudden passing of Brion, he was such a great guy and someone who was really good company on a round of golf. He kept us grounded reminding us we were not really good enough to get mad when the game didn’t go quite so well. Going to miss him so much.
J
Sherry and Austin and family.
We are so sad to hear this news. Please know that we are thinking of you a lot. Please keep chatting about the awesome memories. Xo
Julie, Dan, Marilyn and Joe Martens and families ❤️❤️
Elaine Lambert
I wanted to express my heartfelt condolences to Brion’s family. There’s such a sense of helplessness when someone we love dies. I’d like to share some scriptural thoughts that really helps me. Prayer is so valuable at this time but it’s not that prayer simply makes us feel better. 2 Cor.4:7 says that God can give us, “… power beyond what is normal “, to go from one day to the next. This does not mean that we no longer cry or that we forget, but it means we recover. The reason we recover is because of our hope. Jesus Christ talked about our hope in John 5:28, “… all those in the memorial tomb will hear his voice and come out “. Jesus was referring to the resurrection; this is our hope that helps us recover and gives us power to go on. 2 Cor.1:3 describes our Creator as, “… the God of all comfort “. One way that God comforts us is by moving people who care about us to give us words of encouragement that we need to hear. May the God of comfort (Ps. 83:18) be your comfort now during this time of sorrow.
Ken and Kim Pinder
Dear Sherry and Austin and Gilfillan and Penhale Families
Ken and I are so very sorry about Brion’s passing. Ken looked forward every Tuesday to play golf with Smi. Brion had such a love for the game and their foursome shared a lot of laughs through the years. Take care Sherry and remember all your good times with Brion. He was one great guy. Thinking of you.
Gabbie and Margaret Mol
Very sorry to hear about your loss Our sincere condolences to the Penhale and Gilfillan families
Shirley Wilkinson
Kay: Our hearts are broken at this time for you and your family. it is so hard to loose one so young. Our thoughts and prayers are for you and your family at this time.
Shirley Wilkinson
Mark: Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of deep sorrow. He was way to young to leave. We are thinking of you and Brians family.
Jill McIntyre
Sherry, Austin and all of the Penhale/Gilfillin families. Our deepest condolences for your loss. We are thinking of you and our hearts are saddened with yours. May the love of family and friends help you heal and keep the wonderful spirit of Brion alive.
from Jill McIntyre and family –Katie, Sara and Brett
Doris Becker
Sherry and Austin, may you derive comfort from each other and from friends and family who shared your love and memories for and of Brion. Sending you comforting hugs.
Doris Becker
Sherry and Austin,
May you and your family draw comfort from each other and your many friends as you share memories of all the good times. He will always be with you in your hearts. Sending you comforting hugs.
Doris Becker
Don Mcintosh
Sherry and Austin,
We are so sorry to hear about Brion. Our thoughts are with you.
Sincerely,
Don and Joanne McIntosh
John & Arlene Berendsen
Sending our love and prayers to your family in this time of great loss…our sincere condolences Sherry & Austin. Memories, pictures and the love shared are cherished treasures…
Gary Heywood
Are deepest sympathy to all the family from Gary and Louise Heywood.
Donna Heywood Regier and Ronalynn Bell
Sherry, Austin,Mark and all the Penhale and Gilfillan Family.
So very sorry to hear of your tremendous loss.I always thought Brian had a great smile, ” From Ear to Ear” also thinking of Kay at this sad time?Praying God will wrap his loving arms around you and give you peace as you try living one day at a time. Hugs!
Jim Turnbull
Sherry and Family. We were shocked and saddened to hear of Brion’s passing. Thinking of you at this time and remembering Smi’s smile. Jim & Suzy
Clare and Brenda Martene
Dear Sherry, Austin and Family:
Our heartfelt sympathies towards the sudden passing of Brion. Our sincere thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this very sad and difficult time. We wish you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead, and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts. Hugs to all !
Clare & Brenda Martene
Kathy Kirk
Sherrie, Austin and families
I am sorry to hear of your loss.. Smi was a great guy to work for and we always had a lot of laughs..
Your memories are priceless and forever with you.
Kim Gibson
Dear Gilfillan and Penhale families
Such a sad time our thoughts are with you! i miss the community there! Take strength from them they are such wonderful people. Take care
Kim (Prance) and Earl Gibson.
Michelle and Al Lovell
Dear Sherry, Austin and Family,
Our heartfelt sympathies towards the sudden passing of Brion. Michelle and I just heard from a friend that felt we should know and we were instantly overwhelmed with both shock and sorrow. Brion always took the time to share a kind word or two with his friends. This past summer was no different as I had the pleasure to visit with Brion at your class reunion. His love and pride towards both you Sherry and Austin came through so clearly as he shared in reflection within updating me after many years without seeing him. Our sincere thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time and beyond as Brion will be very sadly missed but lovingly remembered by all.
Ralph Batten and Denise Troyer
Sherri and Austin , we just want you to know we are really sorry to hear about Brion’s passing. He was a wonderful man and was cherished by everyone who knew him. If there is anything we can do we are only a phone call away.
Ralph and Denise
George and Sue Wilson
Sherry and Austin and families, we are sorry to hear of Brion’s passing. He always appeared happy. Cherish your memories. Hugs and prayers, George and Sue Wilson
Larry and Sharon Lynn
Sherry, Austin, Penhale and Gilfillan families,
We send our deepest sympathy to you all at this most difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Larry and Sharon
Dave Robinson and Catherine Patterson
Sherry – so sorry to hear the news, my thoughts are with you and your family.
Shawn and Shelley McMahon
Sherry, Austin, Penhale and Gilfillan Families,
We could not have possibly asked for a better friend than Brion. He was that good to all those that surrounded him. Taken way too soon from all of us. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during these difficult times. Hold on to all those cherished times you had with your Husband, Dad and our buddy Brion.
Bob and Karen Snow
Thinking of you Sherry, Austin and family during this very difficult time.
Jullie Godwin
Dear Sherry and Austin,
Our deepest sympathies at this very sad time.
I don’t ever recall a time when Brion “Smi” was not smiling.
You are in our thoughts.
-Jules, Kim and Morgan?
Waynne and Willi Charlton, Tucson AZ
Sherry and Austin…words seem inadequate to express the sadness we feel.
We wish you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead, and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.
Brian and Sheila Brooks
There are no words to express our deepest sympathy in the loss of Brion. Our hearts go out to you and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.
Tom and Muriel Dalrymple
Sherry and Austin, we are so sorry to hear about losing Smi…..Hugs Tom and Muriel….
Jason Bourne
Sherry and Family,
So sorry to hear of your loss. My sincere condolences to you and your family.
Buck and Karen Beer
Sherry- Just wanted to let you know we are thinking about you and family. Was really saddened to hear about this. We had a nice visit with Smi at the Legion in June. Smi was always the same…the good-nature, the smile and the “devilish” glint in his eye.
Buck and Karen Beer
Paul & Jean Mason
Dear Sherry & Family,
We just heard about ” Smi” & are totally shaken by the news. We are so sorry for your loss & really everyone’s loss that new that fantastic man. His special humour & laidback manner & welcoming demeanor are going to be missed. We enjoyed every meeting we were at & he was there with that special smile & genuine greeting. He really cared about everyone.
You & your family have all of our best wishes, love & support.
Paul & Jean Mason
Jayne Glenn
Sherry,Austin &families. Our deepest sympathy to you all. Our thoughts & prayers are with you at this sad time. Jayne Glenn & family
Randy and Vicki Geoffrey
Dear Sherry and Austin, I do not think that I ever read such a beautiful obituary, at such a difficult for you both you thought of others. I am married to a Sagittarius and I just read the other day if a Sagittarius loves you, you’re the luckiest person alive. This is so true. We all need to enjoy the simple things in life , we are really only here for such a short time let’s make it memorable. Keeping you all close in our hearts and thoughts.
Jane and John Musser
Sherry and Austin, We are saddened to hear of Smi’s passing. There truly were many good times and lots of smiles put on our face from Brion, during our growing up years as we still are. He will be missed. Our deepest sympathy to both families. Cherish the memories!
Paul Pavkeje and Colleen Kerslake
Sherry and Austin:
A great guy gone way too soon. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.
Dianne and Wayne More
Sherry, Austin, Penhale and Gifillan families,
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
With deepest sympathy and love,
Aunt Dianne and Uncle Wayne.
John and Libda Wuerth
Sherry, Austin and family
Our Deepest Sympathy goes out to you. Brion was taken too soon from you but cherish your memories and be with your family at this sad time . Our thoughts and prayers are with you
Marilyn Lightfoot
Dear Sherry & all your families.
So very sorry for your loss. Thinking of you ALL at this very sad time…
Cherish all your wonderful memories. ❤
Robyn McLellan Koekkoek
Deepest condolences. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Elaine Ford
Thinking of you Sherry and family in this sudden death of your young father and husband. My sympathy to all of of you.
Lloyd and Carol Moore
Our deepest sympathy Sherry and Austin. We had such a good visit just a few weeks ago while we were in Florida. Our thoughts are with your mom and dad as well. Truly sorry.
Scott & Karen Eveland
Our thoughts go out to you and your family on your loss
Jim/ Yvonne Barnetson
So sorry Sherry and Austin for your loss. Our deepest sympathy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Yvonne (Fisher) Barnetson.
Gilbert and Janet Buxton
Sherry and Austin
Sherry, I can see you and Brion enjoying yourself in the sun at the Saddlebag pool. Keep those lovely memories in your heart to help you through the trying times ahead. You and your entire family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Gary and Kathy Simpson
To the Penhale and Gilfillan families, we extend our deepest sympathy for your loss. Many good times and memories from the past will be remembered at this sad time.
Cathy Batten
Dear Sherry & Austin
Sending you both and extended Family my sincere condolences in this difficult time. Treasure the Memories and those photos that you have to hang on to to get you through these sad times. One day at a time as you told me….I’m praying for you as you approach each and every day. Thinking of you both at this time. Take care, hugs xo
Cathy Batten
Bob, Sharon, Megan, Nicole & Scott Pavkeje
Sherry & Austin, We are so saddened and shocked to hear of Brion’s passing. Please know you are both in our thoughts and prayers.
Lori Van Osch
So sorry to hear about your loss. Our thoughts are with you…
Lori and Jaron Van Osch
Ellen Hodgins
Bill, Grace, Sherry and family…sorry for your loss.
Lewis & Jamie Mitchell
Sherry, so sorry to hear of a great guy going way too soon. Our sincere condolences and our prayers go to you and all of your family. He will be remembered.
Scot Morgan & Judy Parsons
Sherry, Austin, Gilfillan and Penhale families:
Our most heartfelt sympathy to you all on the loss of Brion. Thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Treasure all your memories!!
John & Stephanie Hamilton
Our condolences to everyone in the Gilfillan and Penhale families.
Don , Edith Lewis & family
Sherry. Austin. Gilfillan and Penhale families
Our deepest sympathy to you all.
So sorry to see that Brion;s journey has ended.
May your lovely memories that you all share.
Keep him in your hearts forever.
God Bless You All.
Our deepest sympathy to you all.
Glenn & Joan Kells
Sherry & Austin, We are so sorry for your loss. We have many fond memories of Brion’s time with the “Town Guys” Our deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Glenn & Joan Kells
M.J. Chanyi
So sorry to hear this news. I will miss seeing Smi’s smile Sun. mornings at the golf course. Thinking of you & your family. Remember what a wonderful, funny, caring partner you had. Hugs M.J. Chanyi
Faye and Larry Skinner
Sherry and Austin: Our thoughts are with you at this sad time. We pray that you are able to cherish the special memories you have of Brion. Thinking of both of you.
Mike and Darlene Stewart
We are truly sorry for your sudden loss. Thinking of you all at this most difficult time….
Mike and Darlene Stewart
Jim and Linda Ferguson
Sherry, Austin, Gilfillan and Penhale Families:
Our sympathies on the loss of a great guy! Though our paths didn’t cross often, we enjoyed the moments we had when able to touch base with Brion and Sherry.
You are in our thoughts and hearts
Barb (Armstrong) McCallum
So sorry to hear of Brion’s passing Sherry, thinking of you and your family.
Donna Lavery
To the Gilfillan and Penhale families and Sherry and Austin,
We are deeply saddened to learn of the loss of your beloved Brion. Extending our sincerest condolences from Banff. Please know we are thinking of you all and wishing we were closer.
Robert and Donna Lavery (Aunt Donna and Uncle Bob) Xo
Patty Masnica
Sherry, Austin and the whole family, my deepest sympathy. Share your memories often and laugh with each other often! Time will heal a broken heart.
Phil
So sorry Sherry. No words suffice at a time such as this. What a loss.
Pamela Johnson Gibbs
Sherry and family……I am so sorry for your loss of Brion ? You are all in my thoughts and prayers?
Ron & Karen Rupert
Our deepest sympathy to Shari, Austin, Gilfillan and Penhale families. Your memories are your treasures and they will be with you forever. Hugs
Maggie Brennan
? so very sad to hear of brions passing.
MY heart touches your family.
So hard to lose a husband, a dad a best friend.
Sending huge hugs, Maggie ….
The Parsons Family
Sherry, Austin and family. Our heartfelt sympathy on your great loss. We hope your family and friends gather close and provide comfort during this very difficult time. In our thoughts and prayers.
Greg, Carrie, Blair & Cassie Parsons
Ed and Judy Johns
So hard to believe that our young Elimville neighbour of long ago has passed away. Far too soon. Our hearts ache for you Sherry, Austin and families. He will live on in your hearts forever.
Doug& Noreen Smith and family
It is heart felt sadness we have heard of his passing of Brion. We send lots of loving hugs at this time. May all your precious moments wants help guide you thru this terrible time we will miss his smiling face but know he’s at peace and wearing his halo and angel wings with pride. Our boys played hockey and had a few good times. You and Austin are in our thoughts and prayers
Sonya, Geoff, Riley and Jenna Hicks
Sherry, Austin, The Penhale and Gilfillan Families,
We were so sorry to hear of the loss of Brion. May you friends and families get you through this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. XOXO
Noel and Betty Bell
Many happy times hunting with Brion, his brothers, his father Emerson and my Father Lloyd Bell. He was one of the best. He will be missed.
Frank&Janet Frank Winters
Life is precious. At times like this we realize how precious it really is. Sherri and Auston and the Penhale and Gilfillan family, we are sad to hear of your loss and pray for your strength.
Tara Heywood
Sherry,
I don’t even know what to say, I am so sorry for your loss. My heart breaks for you and Austin. Brion was a great man and he will be missed by so many. Thinking of you and sending hugs and prayers your way.
Ron And Marlene Moore
Dear Sherry , Austin and All The Penhale ,Gilfillan Familes ,our deepest sympathy on the (to early) loss of your soul mate and loving Father.So glad we had some laughs and nice visits over the last couple years at Saddlebag Resort ?We will hold onto our happy memories ! We will keep you both and all the family in our prayers Ron an Mar
Mark & Judy Cronyn
Dear Sherry, Austin & families
Our deepest sympathy to you all on the loss of Brion. Our thoughts and prayers are with you . Sincerely Mark ,Judy Cronyn & family.
Paul & Debbie Stewart
Sherry and family,s our deepest sympathy in the loss of your loved one. Thoughts and Prayers are with you all.
Bill and Gail Baker
Very sad to here of Brion’s passing. We will always remember him for the great smile and cheerful greating he always had. A great guy that will be missed by all who knew him.
Bill and Gail Baker
Joyce Black and family
Sherry, Austin, Penhale and Gilfillan families – How very sad to hear your dear Husband and Dad to Austin has been taken from you far too soon. There are no words to take away the sadness in all of your hearts. He was a great man and always a little smile when we met. I remember the last time we met you both in London and had a chat this past summer. Sincere sympathy at this very sad time. Your family has had much sadness this fall.
Love from Joyce, Shelly and Karl, Shari and John and families.
Ron and Dianne Ducharme
Dear Gilfillan and Penhale Families
Thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this very sad time
Dave Shelley Koedi and Kurtis Bryson
We are deeply sadden to hear the loss of such an amazing man. To the Penhale and Gilfillan families, hold all the fun and great memories Brion gave to each and everyone of you. He touched so many people over the years and will be greatly missed in the community. Koedi is thinking about his friend at this time, sorry Austin.
Scott MacPherson
My condolences to Sherri and the whole family. My thoughts are with you at a difficult time.
Scott MacPherson
Ross and Marlene Mathers
Dear Sherry, Austin and all the Families: We are so sad and shocked to hear of Smi’s passing. Ross has many happy memories of working with Smi. He had a great humor and a great smile. Gone to soon but not forgotten. Sherry we will think of you often. Sincerely Ross and Marlene.
Don & Joan Heywood
Sherry and your entire family:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time for a life lost so young. Just hang on to all the good times. Hugs Don & Joan Heywood
Doug and Phyllis Johnson
Sherry and family. Although it has been many years since we have seen Brion, we could never forget what a wonderful person he was. His humor and personality would light up any situation
Although your time together was way too short, you have so many happy memories.
Cherish those and know that Brion is still watching over you.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time
Doug and Phyllis Johnson. Gananoque
Larry & Bonnie Gould
Sherry & Austin, Families and Loved Ones; We are sorry Brion has passed. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Be proud of the man he was.With the love and support of all family and friends,may you feel comforted and memories live on.
Darryl Regier
Sherry, Austin and the Gilfillan family, my sincere condolences to you and the family. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. xo ❤
Darryl Regier
Matt & Janet Clarke & family
Sherry, Austin & family
Our deepest sympathy to you and your families. Treasure your memories as you work through this difficult time.
Susan Pridham
Deepest Sympathy to all Penhale, Gilfillan families . Sherry, Austin you are in our thoughts and prayers ! your SPECIAL ANGEL will be watching over you ! So heart broken to hear this ……..your cousins Phyllis, Lloyd, Mae
Dave frayne and Cathy Cade
To Sherry and family:
Sorry to learn of Brion’s passing.
Will have a drink in memory of him, we used to go to London and brew beer years ago.
Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Tammi and Chris Reaburn
Sherry and Austin,
Our hearts go out to you with the sudden loss of Brion.
‘We bereaved are not alone. We belong to the largest company in all the world—the company of those who have known suffering.’
—Helen Keller
In our thoughts. Tammi, Chris and Adrienne
John and Joyce Morgan
Sherry, Bill, Grace and families,
Our most heartfelt sympathy to you al on the loss of Brion. Thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
John and Joyce Morgan
Sherry, Bill, Grace and families,
Our most heartfelt sympathy to you al on the loss of Brionl. Thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Kenley Cooke
My sincerest condolences to all of the family. Hold each other and keep the wonderful memories of Brion alive..
Audrey Skinner
Our deepest condolences for the loss of the love of your life…your soul mate and the father to your precious son. May you find comfort in knowing that so many people are thinking about you and praying for the strength you will need to endure the tough days ahead of you all. May the many memories that you hold dear keep him forever in your hearts!Sincerely Steve, Audrey, Lucas & Brianne Skinner
Phyllis Fidler
So sorry for your loss – Smi was a truly wonderful person.
Darlene, Amy and Tim
Sherry and Austin
I am so sorry for your loss, you both are are in our thoughts and prayers.
Larry and Liz Taylor
Sherry and families,
We are sorry to hear of Smi’s passing. Always fun to be around and great sense of humour. Hang on to those memories.
Roxanne Bloomfield
Sherry, Austin, Gilfillan and Penhale families,
My heart is broken for you all having to endure this profound loss. I am truly sorry and although mere words seem inadequate at this time, pleased know I am grieving for and with you from across the miles that separate us. Hold tight to your loved ones and to your memories. I wish you strength to face the days ahead.
All my love and prayers to you my dear cousin. Roxanne
Karen Johns
So very sorry to hear this. Deepest sympathies.
Bob & Grace Clarke
Our sincere sympathies to the Penhale and Gilfillan families on the passing of Brion . We pray God’s comfort and love will help you all get through this tragic time of your life . Treasure the memories as he would want , and together the family will once again pull together and move forward . Blessings to all , Bob & Grace Clarke , Belle River .
Donelda Sturgeon
Sherry & Austin you are both in my thoughts & Prayers daily my heart goes out to you both remember all the good times you had together he will be missed by many so sorry to hear about Brion it was a shock take one day at a time & look after yourselves.Love you both Donelda Sturgeon
My Deepest sympathy to all the Gilfiillan & Penhale Families my thoughts & Prayers are with you all .Love Donelda Sturgeon
Evelyn Steckle Vincent
Sherry,
I am so sorry to read of Brion’s passing. Praying for peace and comfort in your life and your families during this difficult time. Hugs to you and yours.
Elaine Ford
Sherri and family, with deepest sympathy to all of you in the passing of your husband and best friend. God Bless All Of You.
Angela & Kim McLean
Our thoughts are with you, and our hearts go out to you at this sad time for you and your family Sherry. We have a deep understanding of the sorrow this brings, especially at this time of the year. May peace be with you and your family in the days ahead. The loving support of your family and friends will be with you always, and Smi will live on in our memories.
Angela, Kim and our family
Claire and Winona Hoffman
Claire and Winona Hoffman,
Sherry,Bill,Grace, and all the Penhale and Gilfillan families.
So sorry about your terrible loss.Our heart and prayers go out to you all at this sad time.
Claire and Winona.
Lynda Hillman-Rapley
My deepest condolences. When Brion smiled-we all smiled!
Jim and Kathy Stephenson
Sherry and family ,
Our sincere sympathy at this difficult time. Our thoughts are with you.
Sherrie Broderick
Dear Family,
My very deepest sympathy I share as no other words could ever embrace the tragedy of losing a loved one far too soon through our lives. It is felt more deeply at this time of year when we should be celebrating, not mourning. He was a great neighbour, as was Mark, while we briefly resided in Elimville. He will be sadly missed but has blessed so many with wonderful memories during his short life. My condolences….
Dave & Deb Chappel
Our deepest sympathy to the Penhale and Gilfillan families on the passing of Brion. Treasure all your special memories and you will have many. You are in our thoughts.