Born in Toronto, Brent attended high school at George S. Henry Academy. Passionate about learning he completed his Bachelor of Science and Master’s Degrees in biology at the University of Guelph before relocating to Vancouver and achieving his Doctor of Philosophy in Ecology at Simon Fraser University. While completing his doctorate, he met his wife Sandra Webster. They married in 2004 and had two children Trevor and Lauren Gurd, ages 9 and 7, respectively. Brent valued family, especially his parents, David and Carol Gurd, his sister and her husband, Heather and Randy Boudreau, and his nephew Adam Achtenberg. Extended family included John and Lyn Webster, Gordon and Andrea Webster and their son Elliott. Brent shared a special relationship with his uncle Steven and many aunts, uncles and cousins around the world.

Brent’s passion about wildlife and the environment led to employment at the Ontario African Lion Safari, working with Nature Canada on the Mackenzie Gas Pipeline, and for the B.C. government as a Senior Biologist.

Brent was brilliant, talented and had a witty sense of humour. He excelled at all that he did with perfectionism and patience. This was evident throughout his education, extensive home renovations and teaching his inquisitive children who shared his thirst for knowledge. He enjoyed building projects and the outdoors including camping, fishing and hunting.

Brent was a sensitive person who always strived to achieve more for his family, and in his personal and professional accomplishments. His blond curls and love of nature continue to live in his son and his witty personality and flair for drama are alive in his daughter.

Our family struggles with many unanswered questions about our unexpected loss of Brent and the emptiness he has left in our hearts. Brent would want the memory of him to be a happy one of the days spent together, full of laughter, love and vitality.

In lieu of flowers donations to The Nature Trust of British Columbia or Nature Conservancy of Canada would be appreciated.