Dr. Brian Norris
BSc, MD, FRCPC, ABIM

(1948 �" 2009)


Brian passed away in Vancouver on June 13, 2009 after a long and courageous battle with Cancer, the disease he spent his career attempting to cure for others.

Brian had a long and distinguished career as a leading clinician and clinical researcher in Breast Cancer.  He participated actively in studies and in the National Cancer Institute of Canada Clinical Trials group; this work has led to major improvements in Breast Cancer treatment and improved patient survival.  He was an advocate of education of health care professionals and patients.

Brian graduated from medical school at the University of Ottawa in 1974 and did further training at Queens University and the University of British Columbia.  He practiced at the Newfoundland Cancer Clinic in St. John’s, and the Saskatoon Cancer Centre, before returning to Vancouver where he had done his oncology training.  Since 1995, Brian has practiced at the Fraser Valley Cancer Clinic as part of the BC Cancer Agency.  Although Brian grew up in Ottawa and lived across Canada, Vancouver was home.  His friends and colleagues were an incredible source of support and compassion…Thank you.

Brian is the beloved Son of Melba Norris and John Norris (deceased), the brother of Jackie Coulter and Michael Norris.  Brian’s “kids” were his nieces and nephews, he loved them as his own; Michelle, Denise, Jeff, Andrew and Jonathan.

He was first and foremost a great doctor, friend, brother and uncle.  We are on this earth to make a difference and Brian brought a passion and unwavering dedication and commitment to his patients and finding a cure for Cancer.  This will be his legacy.

Brian and his family will be continuing his life long passion to find a cure for Breast Cancer.  In lieu of flowers, friends and former patients are encouraged to send donations in Brian’s memory to the BC Cancer Foundation (www.bccancer.bc.ca/don).

A service will be held on Saturday, June 20th at 12:45 pm at St. Andrews United Church, 1022 Nelson Street, Vancouver, with a reception to follow.  All friends, colleagues and former patients are welcome to come and celebrate Brian’s life.