BRIAN CRAWFORD GROSE

April 14, 1933 – January 15, 2026

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Brian on Thursday, January 15, 2026 after living with the deteriorating effects of dementia for many years. He was predeceased by his father Reginald, his mother Ada, and his brother Rudman, all of England.

Brian was a devoted husband of 61 years to Elizabeth (Ann). He was the proud and loving father of two children – Peter Crawford (Michelle), and Helen Elizabeth – and was a sweet papa to granddaughter, Samantha Elizabeth.

Brian was born in London, England in 1933, and in 1957 emigrated to Winnipeg, Manitoba as a young chartered accountant with Peat, Marwick, Mitchell & Co. where he did the audit for the Hudson's Bay Company.  He later was offered a job with the Hudson's Bay where he worked for the rest of his career.  He quickly went through the ranks and eventually became Vice-President, Controller and Secretary.  He thoroughly enjoyed working for "The Bay" and would often say how much he respected his colleagues.  The Secretary position exposed him to many interesting ventures, not the least of which was the restoration of the Hudson's Bay Company Royal Charter, given by King Charles 11 in 1670. As a result, he met King Charles 111 (then Prince Charles) who was interested in seeing his ancestor's handiwork.

Brian seized every opportunity, both professionally and personally, to learn and expand his view of the world and saw quite a bit of it as a result. From walking sections of the Bruce Trail, and enjoying yearly vacations – especially cruising with his wife – to involving himself with various boards, charitable organizations, and committees. He contributed professional excellence and integrity to every endeavor.

Cricket was Brian's favorite game, both as a player and spectator, although later he did become quite an avid baseball fan!  He also dabbled in tennis and badminton as a member of the Oakville Club. One of his greatest joys was watching his children play various sports at Lakefield College School. He was particularly proud of Helen being not only the sole female member of her cricket team, but also team captain!

Brian's hobbies included listening to classical music, going to the theatre, playing Bridge, and walking.  He was also an avid reader, and a smart solver of cryptic crosswords.

Brian was a faithful church attendee. He was involved in many activities and committees both at the local and diocesan levels. As a result he was honored with the Order of Niagara (a diocesan award by the Bishop) as recognition of his work.

Blessings and enormous gratitude are extended to the staff, PSWs, nurses and doctors at West Oak Village long term care home, where Brian was treated with love, wonderful care and compassion.

Visitation will take place at Kopriva Taylor Funeral Home, 64 Lakeshore Road West on Thursday, January 22, 2026 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at St. Cuthbert's Anglican Church, 1541 Oakhill Drive, Oakville, on Friday, January 23 at 10 a.m., followed by a reception in the Church Hall. Interment will take place at St. Jude's Cemetery in Oakville following the reception.

Donations in memory of Brian may be made to:

St. Cuthbert's Anglican Church, 1541 Oakhill Drive, Oakville, L6J 1Y6, or

West Oak Village Long Term Care Home, 2370 Third Line, Oakville, L6M 4E2