ForeverMissed
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Einar and Donna both passed away peacefully in their home after long battles with illnesses, surrounded by their children and wrapped in love. As a final tribute to their fifty-eight year love story, they miraculously passed on the same day, 11 hours apart, on April 21, 2021.

This website is a place for their immediate family and friends to leave tributes and condolences, but it will also be a permanent "Memory Album" to commemorate their remarkable lives and life together. We will be adding content in the days to come, and hope you will share your stories, anecdotes, photos, videos and even audio files with us here.

Donna and Einar were very special people who touched many peoples' hearts and lives over the years, and we are so looking forward to remembering and celebrating them here with you.
April 28, 2022
April 28, 2022
I didnt have the pleasure of knowing your family but have to express from my husband & I how beautiful the tribute was in the Western Wheel- how hard but also how miraculous the passing of both your parents within such a short time. You must be very proud and feel blessed to have had such wonderful parents to look up to xx all our blessings to you all xx
April 24, 2022
April 24, 2022
To the Family of Einar Brasso:
I had the pleasure of meeting your father when he and my father shared a hospital room at the Rockyview Hospital many years ago. My father had
the early stages of Alzheimer's Disease. The kindness and compassion that Mr. Brasso displayed toward my father left a memorable impact on 
my family, all these years later! Truly a lovely man! I am sorry for your loss!
April 21, 2022
April 21, 2022
(Sherrie Whitton on behalf of Mary Campbell)

Dear Family of Your Mom and Dad,

To honor your good folks, I will go look way back to the rodeo days of grandparents Don and Leona Thompson. Grandpa Don always said, "do not forget there is a P in the old rodeo Thompsons" at Black Diamond. Your Mom Donna was our High River Rodeo Queen. As she rode in the Little Britches parade, my late husband Lee Campbell was rodeo manager so we hosted Donna in our home and looked after her, as Don and Leona could not come this year. It was May 1959 or 1960. Your Mom was, at the time, maybe a twinkle in Einars eyes then. So the marriage made in heaven was done and we all were thrilled. Einar Brasso was a great builder, supporter, of all rodeo and if it was not enough to run Brasso Datsun, chuckwagons had a wonderful sponsor for many many years. A prince of a man, who's handshake was his bond. A man who always looked you straight in your face and to cheat, oh no, he would not lower himself.

When I saw the obituary in the Calgary Herald, and the Okotoks Western Wheel papers, I did shed a tear as your terrible loss has hit all their friends as well.

In our hearts we say, "god speed".

Respectfully yours,
Mary Campbell
88 years young
403-652-2571
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Mary Martineau
Friday, April 23, 2021

Sincerest condolences Marian and family.

Mary Martineau
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Rob Bisson
Saturday, April 24, 2021

Extremely saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. and Mrs. Brasso. When I first arrived in Calgary in 1982 I landed a job at Brasso Nissan. I learned and worked in the new car sales department for 5 successful years. I met my wife selling her a new car 35 years ago. Mr. Brasso was always kind and generous to me and all the folks at our location on McLeod trail. A true gentleman, family man, entrepreneur and horse lover.

My sincere condolences to all family and friends.

-Rob and Sandy Bisson
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Sandy Vernon
Saturday, April 24, 2021

Our sincerest condolences on the passing of Einar & Donna. They were truly an amazing team...
Sending prayers and warm hugs to our "sisters" and their families.

With Love, Marty & Sandy Vernon
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Aubrey George
Saturday, April 24, 2021

I am very saddened to hear of the passing of Einar and Donna. As a young man arriving in Calgary many years ago I was very fortunate to have been able to learn a ton about the car business from Einar but more importantly I came to appreciate his ability to be honest , direct and caring all at the same time. You always knew exactly where you stood with Einar but he always made sure you were ok. He enjoyed life to the fullest . A true Calgary legend . My condolences to the Brasso family. Rest in Peace.
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
LOU BUSKO
Saturday, April 24, 2021

I was deeply saddened and shocked to hear of the passing of Einar and Donna. My heartfelt sympathy to you girls Celia, Kristen and Allison along with your families with so great a loss in this sorrowful time. I was blessed and fortunate to have worked for Einar for close to 18 years. I have many fond memories of the many trips Dianne and I went on with Einar and Donna to attend company functions. He was not just my boss but also a friend. He was the most caring man one could ever hope to work for and he handled, treated and cared for his management team like they were family. He started Brasso Datsun in 1969 and I joined him in 1970. As a matter of fact, both Einar and Donna together made Brasso Nissan the successful car dealership that it is today, 52 years later. And they did it by caring for their employees and customers. May they both now Rest in Peace.

Lou Busko
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Wanda (Simpson) McClain
Saturday, April 24, 2021

Although it has been many years since I have seen Einar and Donna, I have great respect and love for both of them. They were a part of my life during some very important years in my life and definitely made a strong impact. I will always remember them.

Sincere condolences to all of their family and friends.
Wanda (Simpson) McClain
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Mary Ellen Serpico
Saturday, April 24, 2021

Hello Kristen. I just heard about your loss of both your parents, and I am deeply sorry. May the many memories of them fill your heart continuously with love and joy.

love your dear friend,
Mary Ellen Serpico (U.S.A)
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Rod Hunter
Saturday, April 24, 2021

I would like to pass on my condolences to the family of Einar and Donna. What sad news, I had the pleasure to get to know both Einar and Donna when they were visiting their home in Comox, B.C. I also had the pleasure of going out on a couple of Einars boats. One particular memory was going out on the boat Einar got that used to pull the garbage barge from Alcatraz, I remember we had been out for a few hours but then we had to get towed back in as the boat broke down. Again my condolences to the Brasso family ......... sincerely Rod Hunter
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Roberta (Shaw) Lauzon
Sunday, April 25, 2021

I was very saddened to hear of this news. I want to pass on my deepest condolences to Celia, Kristen and Alison and the rest of the family.
I grew up with with his family only a stones throw away from their home. I had the great pleasure to ride many of rides with his entire family and enjoyed many laughs as well.

I called Donna and Einar my second Mom and Dad because they welcomed me into their home and treated me like I was one of their own.
Knowing that they both were together should give us some sort of comfort because they are together again in no pain and riding off into the sunset❤️
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Samantha (Swales) Garvin
Sunday, April 25, 2021

My most sincere and heartfelt condolences to you all on the passing of Donna and Einar. Your family is in my thoughts today. Xx
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Lee Thompson
Apr 25, 2021

My condolences to all the family
Had the pleasure of working closely with both Donna and Einar on the Parade and Promotion committees . Both very wonderful and dedicated Stampede Volunteers.
I was made an Honorary member of Queens Alumni and fully appreciated the respect they all showed Donna as one of the founding members
We will miss them both. R I P

Colonel Lee Thompson
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Corey Baskin
Sunday, April 25, 2021

Very sad day for the Brasso family and anyone who has ever known them. Einar and Donna were (and will always be) Alberta legends. Anyone who has ever met them always felt welcome.

I've known the Brasso family for over 1/2 my life and I always felt like part of the family when I was around them. I will miss them dearly and treasure the memories.

Celia, Kristen, Ali and all the grandchildren, I am very sorry for your loss, I know you loved them very much. I miss you all. xoxo
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Robin Reboul
Sunday, April 25, 2021

Sending condolences to Celia, Kristen and Alison and the rest of the family on the passing of your parents. I had the great pleasure of being their Dental Hygienist for many years. They both were some of my favourite people to see. Always wonderful to chat with. They will be missed by many many people . Sending you strength in the days to come.

Robin Reboul RDH
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Ken Morter
Sunday, April 25, 2021

It was often said that if you were an employee or customer of Brasso Nissan you were part of the 'Brasso Family'. As a previous long term employee of Brasso Nissan I can certainly attest to that. I was always warmly welcomed by the Brasso's and even though I no longer work there I still feel like I'm part of the family. With their ranching background, Stampede support and history, and entrepreneurial success in business Einar and Donna Brasso are surely Calgary icons. It's people like Einar and Donna who make Calgarians' spirit and pride in their community so strong. My heartfelt condolences to Celia, Kristen, Ali and the rest of the Brasso family.
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Bob Venus
Sunday, April 25, 2021

I am very sad to hear of the passing of Einar and Donna. I had the pleasure to work for Einar for a number of years and you could not find a better dealer principle to work for. I have always respected and admired Einar. He was my mentor!

To the Brasso family I am so sorry for your loss.
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Ken Cox
Monday, April 26, 2021

Celia, Krissy, Ali. So sorry for your loss. Ken and Matt Cox
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Brad and Jackie Peltier
Monday, April 26, 2021

We are truly saddened and shocked by the passing of Einar and Donna. Our condolences to Celia, Kristen and Alison and their families. I worked for Einar and Donna for 28 great full years. Einar gave me the opportunity to excel in the car business and was instrumental with my career path with the company. My family will always have fond memories of the Brasso Christmas parties and summer Family picnics at the Brasso ranch in Okotoks as well as cattle drives at Chimney Rock. Einar and Donna always treated the staff like family and it showed in the longevity and loyalty to the company. It is with a heavy heart we say good bye to an amazing couple.

Rest in Peace.
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Linda Rennels Harrison
Monday, April 26, 2021

I am truly saddened to hear of the deaths of Einar and Donna. May they Rest In Peace. My condolences to their family.
Thinking of happier times. Stampede 1962.

Linda Rennels Harrison
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Dave Dyke
Monday, April 26, 2021

Hi Celia, Siblings and Family.

Val and I are absolutely shocked of passing of your Mom and Dad. They were a genuine, caring, generous and loving couple who embraced life and friends. An absolute love story.

I'm sad but I don't think they would want it any other way. Rest in Peace, Einar and Donna

Our sincere condolences.

Take good care
Dave and Val Dyke
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Joe Fuduric
Tuesday, April 27, 2021

Celia, and family: I was the Regional Sales Operation Manager for Nissan, and had many dealings with Einar over the years. I was very saddened to hear of his and Dona's passing. What I remember most about Einar was his passion for the business and equally passionate for a good time. I had the pleasure of being i9inar's company at dealer meetings, at social events and Einar was a presence larger than life as he deserved to be, being one of the longest serving and successful dealers in the Nissan dealer body family,
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Bill & Cathy Besse
Thursday, April 29, 2021

With deepest Sympathy to Celia,Kristen, Ali and their families on the passing of Your Mom and Dad. They meant so much to many of us.

There are so many great memories that will be shared throughout the Brasso Community, Golf Tournaments, camping trips, Branding Season, Christmas Parties and so much more.

They will missed.

Hugs,
Bill, Cathy and Family
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Dolores Petitpas (Scott)
Thursday, April 29, 2021

Celia, Kristen, Ali and family. I am so sorry to hear of your parents passing. My sincere condolences.

Dolores Petitpas (Scott)
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Ralph Frost
Tuesday, May 11, 2021

I’m out of the country and just heard this now. So sorry. My deepest condolences to you and your family Celia. Wish you all the best.

Ralph Frost
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Rick & Marilyn Shaw & family
Wednesday, May 12, 2021

Our condolences to Celia, Krissy, Alison and their families as we say "Goodbye" to Donna and Einar, our friends and neighbors of 40 plus years.

I worked for them in the 80's as did three of our children(Todd, Travis and Robbie). I enjoyed all our years running the cuttting horse arena and cattle operation for them. During the winters, Donna and Einar competed in the Sun Circuit Cutting in Arizona and California with Eddie Murphy as trainer.. I would haul the horses to and from the south every year and if my wife came with me, Einar would insist we spend extra time vacationing at their place in Scottsdale. They worked hard to reach their goal, Donna rode turnback for Einar, videoed the practice runs and competitions that led to Einar successfully winning the Canadian Cutting Horse Championship.

They ran over 85 head of horses with a full breeding program at the ranch in Okotoks which I managed for them. Donna's father, Don Thomson and I also ran the cattle operation at Don's ranch and at Chimney Rock where Einar and Donna had a cabin and several hundred acres of grazing land with a spectacular view. Friends of Einar and Donna were all at the cabin at one time or another, cutting, riding the hills, moving and/or checking cattle. My family and I spent many working weekends at the cabin and the occasional Christmas.

They were a great support to our local Okotoks Agricultural Society, they donated their time, money and equipment. They opened their home to establish the Okotoks Range Patrol, donating their time and expertise as President and Secretary. I hauled cattle to the Stampede grounds each year for futurity events and the Calgary Stampede all supplied by Brasso Ranch.
Through those years working on the ranch and as neighbor's, we watched the girls growing up: Celia working on her cutting horse skills, Krissy riding my bay gelding Joker, Einar never knew "wild" Alison was riding his old sorrel gelding as a racehorse and jumper.

We miss them both, but the Cowboy Gods will supply Donna and Einar with a pair of great white horses and no bad steers to cut.
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Kellie
Tuesday, May 18, 2021

Celia, Chrissy, Ali and families, my sincere condolences on the passing of your amazing parents. No words can express my sorrow for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time. Stay strong. Big Hugs.
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Jim Bowden
Wednesday, May 26, 2021

Ceilia, Chrissy and Ali, your parents are going to be missed by Barb and I. We had so many good times together over the years. I remember being in London dancing with your mom to rock and roll music with two souvenir ashtrays in my pocket. They were clanging away and we laughed the next day how we couldn’t believe that they were not smashed into a million pieces. Another fun memory was after attending a conference in Toronto, the four of us flew to Bermuda. It rained so hard that a moped was washed off a high bank, nearly into the hotel. That was it for your dad. He said, lets get the hell out of here and go to New York! We stayed at The Plaza Hotel, right across the street from Central Park. Every morning there was a line up of horses and carriages outside of our hotel. Your dad always looking for the underdog, went to the back of the line and picked the oldest carriage and driver. We no sooner got into the park when the driver took out his little brown bag and took a few swigs. He turned out to be quite the character sharing many laughs with him on our ride around Central Park. We had so many great times over the years at conferences, on holidays, fishing, and at the ranch creating ever lasting memories. Your mom and dad were amazing people with great integrity and thoughtfulness, always there to help anyone at anytime. Your dad treated all employees with great admiration and respect. I am honoured to have worked at Brasso Nissan for some 20 years and to have their friendship for many more. Our deepest and sincere condolences to you, your families and loved ones. Rest In Peace Einar and Donna.

Barb and Jim Bowden
April 20, 2022
April 20, 2022
Katie Malloch

Friday, November 26, 2021

To the Brasso family, Ian Tyson just told me of the sad passing of your parents.

I remember their hospitality and kindness when Ian and I visited with them in 1977. What a warm family feeling they imparted.

It’s sadly wonderful that they left this earth on the same day. Together forever!

May your loving memories help heal you all,

Katie Malloch

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Recent Tributes
April 28, 2022
April 28, 2022
I didnt have the pleasure of knowing your family but have to express from my husband & I how beautiful the tribute was in the Western Wheel- how hard but also how miraculous the passing of both your parents within such a short time. You must be very proud and feel blessed to have had such wonderful parents to look up to xx all our blessings to you all xx
April 24, 2022
April 24, 2022
To the Family of Einar Brasso:
I had the pleasure of meeting your father when he and my father shared a hospital room at the Rockyview Hospital many years ago. My father had
the early stages of Alzheimer's Disease. The kindness and compassion that Mr. Brasso displayed toward my father left a memorable impact on 
my family, all these years later! Truly a lovely man! I am sorry for your loss!
April 21, 2022
April 21, 2022
(Sherrie Whitton on behalf of Mary Campbell)

Dear Family of Your Mom and Dad,

To honor your good folks, I will go look way back to the rodeo days of grandparents Don and Leona Thompson. Grandpa Don always said, "do not forget there is a P in the old rodeo Thompsons" at Black Diamond. Your Mom Donna was our High River Rodeo Queen. As she rode in the Little Britches parade, my late husband Lee Campbell was rodeo manager so we hosted Donna in our home and looked after her, as Don and Leona could not come this year. It was May 1959 or 1960. Your Mom was, at the time, maybe a twinkle in Einars eyes then. So the marriage made in heaven was done and we all were thrilled. Einar Brasso was a great builder, supporter, of all rodeo and if it was not enough to run Brasso Datsun, chuckwagons had a wonderful sponsor for many many years. A prince of a man, who's handshake was his bond. A man who always looked you straight in your face and to cheat, oh no, he would not lower himself.

When I saw the obituary in the Calgary Herald, and the Okotoks Western Wheel papers, I did shed a tear as your terrible loss has hit all their friends as well.

In our hearts we say, "god speed".

Respectfully yours,
Mary Campbell
88 years young
403-652-2571
His Life

In Memoriam Calgary Herald

April 21, 2022
Donna Kathleen Brasso (nee Thomson)
April 30, 1943 - April 21, 2021

Mom/Mama, the year has flown by, but not a day passes that we don't think of you. Your laughter, hugs, warmth and strength are with us always and we miss you so much. You were the rock of our family, keeping the home fires burning and all the tops spinning in the busy, full, varied life and family you and Dad/Papa built over the years. You literally and figuratively always kept the boat provisioned and the crew outfitted and cared for while your skipper steered the ship, and rode the waves together whether the seas were calm or rough. And while you were a self-proclaimed homebody who felt happiest on the ranch, you were always game for another adventure and new horizon. After proudly representing Calgary as our Golden Jubilee Stampede Queen and Miss Rodeo Canada, and then leaving a successful teaching career to raise your family, you devoted yourself completely to your role as a wonderful wife, mother, grandma, daughter and sister. But even though family was your focus, you also shared your talents and time with many worthwhile causes, including co-founding the Calgary Stampede Queens' Alumni to support local charities. Your energy, practicality and organizational skills were remarkable and you could always be counted on to just "get things done" without fuss or fanfare. Never one to be idle, once the husband, kids, critters, accounting, ranch work, housework and many other obligations were looked after, you threw yourself into hobbies and interests with skill and enthusiasm. Your garden was large and bountiful, your flowerbeds abundant and beautiful, and your crafts and gorgeous needlepoint creations are now treasured heirlooms. You could always be counted on for a hug, a kind word, a gentle nudge or even a loving kick in the butt when that was what the situation required. You were a confidante, an advisor, a soft place to land, a shoulder to cry on and a hand up. You were always empathetic but wouldn't let us wallow; you celebrated our wins and supported us through our losses. Through all of life's ups and downs, your unconditional love, support, positivity and friendship were a blessing to us all. Over the past few years as your health declined, we watched you fight a quiet, brave battle with the grace, humour and strength befitting a rancher's daughter and wife - and a Queen. That you and your cowboy rode off into the sunset on the same day, at home and surrounded by family, still amazes us. While losing you both at once was a hard blow, knowing that divine intervention and your abiding love for one another led you to greener pastures together brings us all great comfort. 

Love always from your daughters Celia (Kirk), Kristen and Alison (Kris), grandchildren Paige, Bryten, Hunter, Ava, Mia, Amara and Alex, sister Marian (Kim) and your many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends 

As we work on ways to celebrate Einar and Donna, we would be so grateful for any stories and anecdotes of their lives. To share, please visit www.forevermissed.com/brassomemorial
Published on April 21, 2022

In Memoriam Calgary Herald

April 21, 2022


Einar Christian Brasso
February 5, 1937 - April 21, 2021

Dad/Papa, we can't believe it's already been a year since you left us. We miss you so much. It still feels like you're right here - to guide and give advice, tell great stories, make us laugh and teach us every day. You were a well-respected rancher, an accomplished horseman, a savvy "car guy", a successful businessman, a quiet philanthropist, a capable seafarer and so much more, and earned many accolades over the years including being honoured by the Calgary Stampede as a Pioneer of Rodeo, earning the Better Business Bureau Ethics Award and the Nissan Global Dealer of the Year Award. But above all else, you were a wonderful husband, father, grandpa, son, uncle, and brother, and every decision you made was guided by your dedication to your family. You taught us that "life is a collection of moments", and that we should place value on experiences, not things. To keep our word, look after one another, live with integrity, lend a hand, and that what a person does matters more than what they say. To never judge someone by their appearance, to find the good in situations and that life ain't perfect but it's still a great adventure. To never borrow something we weren't prepared to repair or replace if we broke it, and to be prepared with a "mot" at a dinner table to break any awkward silences. And so much more. You were a font of wisdom and sage advice, and we hope you know that we really were listening even when it didn't seem like it. After a life full of vitality, adventures, travel, wonderful friendships, great horses, loyal dogs and a couple of good old boats, of building and running a successful business, community service, and exploring a variety of interests, you endured failing health over the past several years with your typical humour, wisdom, practicality and optimism. And you reminded us of the importance of gratitude; you were always so thankful for the opportunities you were given, and for the life you were able to enjoy and share with your family. Even on your last day, surrounded by family at home, you were grateful - to be here, for your life, and for us - just as we are so grateful for you and all you've done for us. The fact that you went first so you could lead your bride across the threshold when she was ready eleven hours later is a testament to your devotion and love for each other and we remain in awe of it. Heading into your eighth decade together, God and the Universe knew you couldn't live apart; while it was so hard to say goodbye to you both, we take great comfort knowing you will never have to miss one another. Thank you for the wonderful life you both gave us, and the legacy of love and commitment to family you leave behind.  

Love always from your daughters Celia (Kirk), Kristen, and Alison (Kris), grandchildren Paige, Bryten, Hunter, Ava, Mia, Amara and Alex, brother Henning (Fran) and your many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

As we work on ways to properly celebrate Einar and Donna's lives, we would be grateful for any stories or anecdotes you can share with us. Please visit www.forevermissed.com/brassomemorial
Published on April 21, 2022

Recent stories

1978 280z

November 9, 2023
I had the pleasure of knowing Einer for some years as he once sold me his personal ride a very nice 1978 Datsun 280z.
I drove that car half way around North America and like Einer neither ever let me down.
RIP Mr. Brasso.
You are sadly missed.
April 25, 2022
To the Brasso family;  My wife saw the memoriams of your parents in the newspaper and was so jolted that they died on on the same day that she had to show the article to me.  Little did she know that at one time Einar & I  were the best of friends. In response  to your request for stories about your parent's past, I am Norman Weismose.  My parents, Niels & Sigrid,  Peter and Elsa Brasso (did I get their names correct?),  as well as the Lawsons and the Barclays (have you heard of them?) were from  Denmark and belonged to the Sharon Lutheran Church and were great friends.  Einar and I were in Sunday school and during our high school years we be came very close friends.  Einar went to Crescent Hights and I went to Central HS.  After HS Einar & I went our separate ways. We both Joined the Calgary Stampede, and did see each other once in a while. I do not recall ever meeting your mother.
If you would like to contact me, I'm at - weismose@telus.net

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