We all go through life and call many people we meet friends. Some of them come and go, but a true friend will always be their forever.

In my case, this is true. Brent has been my friend for 37 years. We met each other at the Acadamy of Music in London. I was 17 and Brent was 24. We instantly knew we would be friends from that day forward.

We played together in our band for many years, Brent on guitar, vocals and myself on the drums. We always enjoyed our music together with our band mates and it was a way for us to umwind and let go from the everyday stress of work.  

Brent was a hard worker, would never quit and say, I cant do this. His passion to get things done was great. Back then, he could not wait to get home and see his 2 year old daughter Lee Ann, she was his life.

As time passed, he told me he met this wonderful woman named Anita, he was so happy and I could tell by his smile, his voice, she was the one. Brent was right, he had chosen one of the best apples on the tree.

Brent would often say to me, boy, we did good Rob, I would not trade Anita for the world and you would not trade Anna. we are 2 lucky guys. he was right. 

Next came Josh and then Lisa. This took Brent to the next level of happiness. He had a Son and who would ever thought he would grow taller and bigger then his dad lol... Lisa,, just like her mom, warm, caring, thoughful and a fantastic worker, but dont tick her off or your in toruble lol...

Le Anne and Lindsey decided it was time to get married, so they did. Years later, 3 grandchildren for Brent and Anita. Life doesnt get any better than that Brent would say.

I really think Brent should have become an author as he could tell the best stories in the world. He would make sure you knew all the details from start to finish and I wondered sometimes, hmmm, is he really as tough as hes been teling me for all these years. I know hes a big guy and can handle himself, but maybe hes just stretching it just a little.

Boy, was I wrong on that one. 5 years ago we received a phone call that Brent has cancer, He has 3 to 5 years left max. The journey began, hospitals, operations, drugs, sickness, weight loss, all that accompany the worst with that terrible disease. But through all the pain he endured, he kept smiling, joking, working, taking trips with his wife and children. No matter how hard he was hit, he got back up and kept fighting everyday of his life. He would text me, not a good day today Rob, sick all day, no energy, but yet, still laugh, joke, work. This man does not stop. 

Right up until the end, he fought for his family to be there for them. I have never seen anyone as strong as this man. Fight, your darn right he can fight. Harder then most ever will.

His courage is beyond belief. If I could have only half the courage Brent McKay had, I would be a very proud man. His love for his wife, family and friends came from the heart and he was determined to stay as long as he could and fight with every ounce of strength and energy he had.

Those stories he told so well, they were true. After seeing my best friend fight the way he did for more than 5 years, theres no one that could have taken this man down.

Brent was a fantastic husband, wonderful father, loving Grandfather and had many other qualities.

To me, he was the greatest friend I could ever ask for. A ture loving and caring friend that I will miss dearly everyday.

Rest in Peace my buddy Brent

Love, your best friend Rob