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AARON BRUCE BERNARD GIESBRECHT
Born: Sep 04, 1987
Date of Passing: Dec 11, 2024
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryAARON BRUCE BERNARD GIESBRECHT
Aaron's suffering is over, but for thousands of other addicts and their families that suffering continues...
Aaron was born on September 4, 1987, and grew up near Nesbitt, south of the Brandon Hills. There were always horses, ponies, dogs, and cats on the property, and plenty of places to explore and play outside. He attended Meadows School, and briefly, Neelin High School. He was involved in various activities growing up, including Beavers and Cubs. He was truly a joy and delight to his family, and was so very close to his younger brother, Daniel. Aaron always felt as though he was a bit of an "outsider," but took solace in books and music. Unfortunately, as he approached adolescence he turned to alcohol, then drugs, to help him cope.
Aaron's sister Karen died from cancer in 1991. He was profoundly affected by her death, and the devastating effect it had on the family. Although he was very young at the time, he expressed his sadness in many ways, and tried to be a comfort to others, especially to his Mom. Throughout his childhood he was mature far beyond his years.
Aaron spent the past few years in Kelowna. Several years ago he sustained serious damage to his heart and lungs as a result of the drug use that had taken control of his life. Since that time we have been living with the fear of the telephone call that we knew would come, telling us that his time was over.
For the past few months Aaron lived at Fuller House in Kelowna. It is a home for people, like Aaron, who have serious mental, physical, and addiction issues. We are grateful to the staff at Fuller House for making Aaron's last few months of life safer and more comfortable, and we are forever grateful for the kindness and support he received through the Gospel Mission shelters, Richter Street shelter, Metro Community, Outreach Urban Health, and, most recently, Fuller House. Aaron had a deep impact on the lives of many who reached out to help him, and they have kindly shared that with us over the years.
Aaron was predeceased by his sister, Karen; his grandmother, Alvina Giesbrecht, and the grandfathers that never had a chance to know him - Barney Giesbrecht and Bruce Buckley. He leaves to mourn his Mom, Brenda Buckley; Dad, Brian Giesbrecht; sister, Diana Davidson (Gerond); nieces Rebecca, Rosie Lynn, Rachel, and nephew Robbie, brother Daniel, and grandmother, Joan Buckley.
Aaron's addictions changed his behaviour greatly, but we will always remember him for the person he really was - kind, compassionate, caring, a gentle soul.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Donations in Aaron's memory would be gratefully received by:
Kelowna Gospel Mission (please designate Bay Avenue Shelter)
P.O. Box 22087 Capri, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 9N9
Metro Community (please designate Hygiene Program)
1262 St. Paul Street, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 2C9
As published in Brandon Sun on Dec 21, 2024
Condolences & Memories (14 entries)
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Aaron inspired me to start playing music and gave me the most encouragement out of anyone. He has always had a place in my heart and he always will. Legitimately the funniest person I’ve ever known, I’ve never laughed harder than when I was with him. He was able to adapt to almost anyone’s personality and he could make you feel like the only one in the room. I miss you, Aaron. Love, Ida - Posted by: Ida (Friend) on: Jul 14, 2025
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I met Aaron when I moved back to Manitoba. He was so full of life and hope. He often talked about his struggles and his friends. I met Ida as well. Aaron was so proud of her talent. He loved how musical his Dad was and talked fondly of his childhood. We also have addiction in our family and it is very very hard. My deepest sympathies to the family. I want to believe Aaron found the peace on the other side and the music he so loved is playing for him. I considered him a friend. Renie - Posted by: Renie Hetherington Brandow (Friend) on: Jun 03, 2025
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Aaron had a such an impact on me as a musician, he continues to influence me despite not seeing him for so long: he'll always be in my life. I am thinking about the Giesbrecht family everyday. I love you all - Posted by: Kaili (Friend) on: Jan 05, 2025
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I am deeply saddened to learn of Aaron’s passing. I was aware of his struggles during the few times I had to meet and converse with him, and he always struck me as a kind and gentle soul. My heartfelt condolences and sympathy are with you, Brian, Brenda, Diana and Daniel. - Posted by: Bruce Shavers (Friend) on: Jan 01, 2025
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Brenda, Brian & Family Please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of your son. May the special memories that you have of him bring you comfort in the days ahead. Sincerely, Margaret Eastley - Posted by: Margaret Eastley (Friend) on: Dec 28, 2024
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Brenda and Brian and family we are saddened at the news about Aaron, our hearts are with you in this time of great sadness. - Posted by: The Bok Family (Neighbor ) on: Dec 25, 2024
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So sorry for your loss … thoughts are with you Brian and Brenda and family . ❤️ - Posted by: Linda Stinchcombe (Friend ) on: Dec 23, 2024
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Aaron was a couple years younger than me and I remember him fondly from school, punk shows, and Winnipeg folk fest one year. He was a kind and warm person. I’m sorry to hear of his long battle with addiction and mental illness and my heart goes out to his family and friends who no doubt know what a beautiful person he was behind the veil of suffering. Love you Geezer ~nish - Posted by: Clare (High school friend ) on: Dec 21, 2024
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We will miss you Aaron. Be at peace. - Posted by: Linda Davidson (Friend) on: Dec 21, 2024
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Brenda and Brian: So sorry to hear about your loss. I know you spoke of his struggles. Sorry that he couldn’t over come those struggles with all your support. Take care Sharon and Hal Crowston - Posted by: Sharon Crowston (Cousin) on: Dec 21, 2024
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Man you were a staple at any concert I played at. You were a friendly caring and accepting person to all. You will be missed by many people bro. Rest easy - Posted by: Derek (Friend) on: Dec 21, 2024
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Sincerest condolences to Brenda and Brian and family. - Posted by: Helen Deacon (Friend ) on: Dec 21, 2024
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Thank you for sharing so openly Aaron’s journey and for always loving him - Posted by: Christine Waddell (Friend ) on: Dec 21, 2024
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Dear Brenda, Brin and family, You are in our hearts and prayers.🙏🏼 Our deepest condolences. Maria and Ian - Posted by: Maria McIntyre (Friend) on: Dec 21, 2024