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Brent James Fernie

May 21, 2025

Brent James Fernie passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, May 21st, 2025, at the age of 46. He was the beloved husband of Carlene Fernie (née McGowan) for 15 years and a loving father to six children: Braeden (14), Eden (13), Jack (10), Isla (8), Ava (4), and Elle (1).

Brent is lovingly remembered by his mother, Christine Fernie of Ottawa; his father, Iain Fernie of Orangeville; and his sister, Kendel Fernie of Dunrobin. He was the cherished son-in-law of Wendy and Tony McGowan, and brother-in-law to Conor (Lydia), Jenny, and Joe (Paige). Brent also held a special place as uncle to Josie, Colin, Tyler, Dawkin, and Maeve.

A proud and dedicated firefighter, Brent served as a Captain with the London Fire Department. He was a selfless husband and father who always put the needs of his wife and children first. His life was centred on family, and he worked tirelessly to create a home filled with love, laughter, and support.

Brent’s greatest joy came from his family. He loved watching Braeden and Jack play baseball, cheering on Eden and Isla from the sidelines of the soccer field, and spending quality time with all his children on the ski hill. These treasured moments defined the heart of who he was as a father.

Visitation will be held at Westview Funeral Home, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, on Thursday, May 29th, 2025 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A funeral service will take place at St. Peter’s Cathedral Basilica, 196 Dufferin Avenue, London, on Friday, May 30th, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. Interment will take place privately with his family.

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It is on July 4th that we heard of Brent’s passing through acquaintances. Lynn and I keep fond memories of Brent’s younger days in Chatham where we lived and worked. Please accept our heartfelt condolences to the entire family. Lynn and Marc Birs

~ Lynn and Marc Birs

Condolences to his family

~ Carson Loveless

Wow, this is awful news. Brent and I shared several classes in high school and perpetually cracked each other up rather than behaving and doing our work. I always wondered what would become of Brent and had heard that he was in the fire department. We hadn't seen each other in nearly 30 years, but I thought of him from time to time over all these years, always with a chuckle. I might be the only person lucky enough to have an original, handwritten poem composed by noted poet Brent Fernie! Definitely NSFW. I'm so sorry to hear of this and had always hoped to bump into him one day and catch up. RIP, buddy. Thanks for all the laughter.

~ Jodi

Wow, this is awful news. Brent and I shared several classes in high school and perpetually cracked each other up rather than behaving and doing our work. I always wondered what would become of Brent and had heard that he was in the fire department. We hadn't seen each other in nearly 30 years, but I thought of him from time to time over all these years, always with a chuckle. I'm so sorry to hear of this and had always hoped to bump into him one day and catch up. RIP, buddy.

~ Jodi

Although I didn't know Captain Fernie, this is horrific news. Not much can be said to relieve the pain of those who knew him, especially his family. I wish I could find the words to express my sorrow and sadness.

~ Richard Fanni

Dear Carlene, Braeden, Eden, Jack, Isla, Ava, Elle, and family members, My heart breaks for you! I was so sad to hear about your loving husband / father. When Brent came to our class to do a session with the children about fire, he was amazing. He was so kind, soft spoken and caring with all of our children in our kindergarten class. He will be remembered and missed by many. He was an amazing man. May God bring peace to your hearts. Hugs! Val Van Oosterhout

~ Valerie Van Oosterhout

So sorry to learn of Brent's passing. Our deepest condolences to Carlene, Iain, Tony and families. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time.

~ Marty & Deb Van Doren

Words can’t describe this outstanding amazing man what so ever, Brent you have come to my families rescue twice and then you visited my son a few times there is absolutely no words to describe the greatness that came from you. You’re kind you’re loving and you always showed it when you were putting others before yourself I’m greatly appreciated for everything you’ve done for my family. Mostly appreciated for the exceptional work you and your team did for my son. Carlene, There’s so much love for you. I can’t describe how much care and love that, Tyler and I have for you and your family. Our condolences, prayers and thoughts are with you in this most difficult situation. Be positive even though it’s hard I will always be here for you no matter what you have impacted our lives forever and always be in our hearts. Sending hugs and prayers with love to your family

~ Connie and Tyler Brooks

Carlene and family, please accept our heartfelt sympathies. Brent was a great friend growing up but when he became a firefighter he was not only a friend anymore but a mentor of mine. He helped and cheered for me to get on the job. This continued throughout our career with advice, leadership and helping me navigate situations. My most recent interaction with him was offering advice as a captain to which he followed up during my shift to make sure things were going ok. Above and beyond is the friend I will remember. Brent was a good person and set a standard that I will always try to live up to. We miss Him so much. Karl and Mandy Robb ❤️

~ Karl Robb

Tony, Wendy Carlene and your entire family, there are no words. Please know that you are all in the hearts of our family and pray for strength and the support of each other to go forward. The Balmain family

~ Susan Balmain

Christine, Our deepest condolences to all Family! City Hall, London - 6th Floor

~ Anna Serrano-Mendoza

Braeden and family, I am so very sorry for your loss. I am keeping all of you in my thoughts and prayers and sending light, warmth, and healing to you all. “Love is as strong as death.”

~ Ashley McKishnie (Goodbrand)

My heart breaks for all of you with your devastating loss. Brent was one of the nicest men and best dads I’ve know. His love for Braeden, Eden, Jack and Isla was evident each day, when we were lucky enough to have the four of them in our kindergarten class. Brent’s caring for others stood out when he did a community helper presentation with our students. He made a point to wear his full firefighting rescue gear because he wanted the students to see it and hear the noise it made. Brent told the kids that they didn’t need to be afraid of fire fighters if they saw them in this gear. They were there to help. He explained that he was still Braeden’s dad, even when he was dressed like that. Praying for all of you. Love Evelyn Paparella

~ Evelyn Paparella

Words cannot truly capture the profound sense of loss and sadness at this time. Please accept our deepest condolences. Rest in Peace Brent.

~ Kevin and Carrie LaPorte

Kendel and family, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Brent. Truly heartbreaking. My heart goes out to you and your entire family at this extremely difficult time, especially his six beautiful kids. We’re keeping all of you in our thoughts and prayers. Brent touched so many lives, and I know his memory will live on. He’ll never be forgotten.

~ Jenn McLean ( Stacey)

Carlene, we are so sad to hear about the devastating loss of Brent. He was an incredible Dad, husband and firefighter. We will be with you every step of the way through your grief. Love, Shauna, Bruce, Kane and Tenley

~ Shauna, Bruce, Kane and Tenley

We are so sorry to hear of Brent’s passing - our hearts ache for all of you. Chris, Kendel, and Iain we will always hold dear the family times together and that beautiful grin. Much Love The MacDiarmids💕

~ Neil and Pat MacDiarmid

My sympathies to Carlene and the children, as well as all the other members of Brent's family. He was a good firefighter and positive presence in the fire hall. Many good memories as well from the hockey rink.

~ Dave Walmsley

Kendel and fam deserved so much better. Time for the world to make their amends. Love m, Always. Just us baseball girls.

~ Jillian Curtin

I worked with Brent from his first rookie days and on my last day on the Job it was Myself Randy Evan’s and Brent on Rescue 1. I couldn’t have asked for a better crew. I am heartbroken at this loss of a terrific firefighter and brother. I am so very sorry this has happened to you all.

~ Ken Gaskin

Carlene, Iain, Christine and Kendel, David and I are heartbroken for all of you as well as the children. We are at a loss for words and very sorry for your pain.

~ Brenda Cowan

Carlene, you have my deepest condolences, I am so terribly sorry for your loss.

~ Maureen McKenna

I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

~ Jackie Smith

My sympathies to Brent’s family , and LFD family and friends. May Jesus support you in this time of grief, may god grant him eternal rest and peace in the lords mansion. RIP Brent ✝️

~ Ronald Sinclair

Carlene and family, please accept my sincere condolences on your profound loss. Brent was such a great man and friend and will never be forgotten.

~ Chet Couture

Carlene, I am so sorry that you and your beautiful family are suffering through such a devastating loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

~ Karen Timmermans

Services for Brent James Fernie

Visitation will be held at:
Westview Funeral Home & Cremation Centre
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario

May 29, 2025 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Funeral Service will be held at:
St. Peter's Basilica Cathedral
196 Dufferine Avenue,
London, Ontario

May 30, 2025 2:30 pm