Burney Olin McDougall

Burney Olin McDougall passed away peacefully in his home on January 7, 2015. He was born in Moose Mountain, New Brunswick on May 5, 1930, the son of the late Ellsworth and Vera (Giggie) McDougall. He was predeceased by brothers Milton, Angus and Burney; sisters Alberta and Paulene.

Burney lived happily with his family on the farm in Moose Mountain and attended the one room school house about two miles from his home. The family moved to Centreville, New Brunswick in 1945 and settled into the community. On November 1, 1950 Burney married Jean Brown. They shared a love of music, church and family; had six children and enjoyed a happy marriage of twenty years before Jean’s sudden passing in October of 1970.

After the death of his first wife, Burney spent time with his family and kept busy with his work. He had worked in many areas including lumber camps, car sales, bus driving, etc. but his first love was welding. The manufacturing opportunities were everywhere and the timing was right to meet the demand of product in emerging industries with revolutionary innovation. Burney eventually founded BWS Manufacturing Ltd. which went on to become a leader in the fabrication and production of trailers and heavy equipment worldwide. Burney was very involved in the community as an employer, businessman and member of the local CRDC.

Burney married Gail Smith on August 7, 1972. They went on to enjoy more than forty-three years of marriage. During these years together they were friends, business partners and travelling companions. Burney and Gail went on to have two daughters and everyone became a part of this blended family. They also shared a love of music which they actively pursued. This eventually became a family affair and ministry even travelling as a family group to Nashville Tennessee to record two records. In later years Burney built his own recording studio and went on to record more family music and provide recording services to those who wished to do the same. In 2003 Burney was inducted into the NB Gospel Music Hall of Fame in recognition of his efforts to promote gospel music.

Burney was passionate about many things and had many hobbies and interests. Besides being a loving father and husband, businessman and musician, he was an avid Antique Car Collector, Motorcycle Enthusiast, Mechanic, Pilot, Sunday School Teacher and eventually even became an Author. Burney will be remembered for his devotion to family, vision and passion for life, love of music and Christian heritage.

Burney is survived by his loving wife, Gail McDougall; 6 daughters, Gail Cole (Brian), Shelley Graham (Dale), Gina Shaw (Allan), Lisa McDougall, Andrea Weston, Stephanie McDougall (Mike); 2 sons, Richard (Susan), Randall (Iris); 15 Grandchildren and 24 Great Grandchildren.

Dad….you loved us, you loved our mothers, you were honest, hard-working, spiritual, a good friend. You helped others, were generous with your time and money, made us laugh, loved life and had great hope. You always had our best in mind. You were proud of us and had a smile every morning. Thank you for sharing your creative spirit, counsel, encouragement and love of life! We love you so much and you will be greatly missed by us all.

Visitation will be held at the Knoxford Praying Band Church on Friday, January 9, 2015 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2015 at 2:00 pm from the church. Pastor Carl O’Donnell, Rev. Andrew DeRier and Rev. Bob McNutt will officiate. Interment will be held in the Centreville Baptist Cemetery at a later date. For those who wish, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada, the Knoxford Praying Band Church, Extra Mural or to a charity of the donor’s choice. L.R. Giberson Funeral Directors are entrusted with the arrangements. www.gibersonfuneraldirectors.ca (506) 392-1115.