In memory of

Brad Szela

February 15, 1975 -  February 28, 2020

Bradford Alexander Szela
February 15, 1975–February 28, 2020

Our loving and beloved Brad passed away unexpectedly on February 28th, leaving behind a void that will never be filled. Our hearts are shattered at his loss.

Brad was an exceptionally caring son, step-son, brother, brother-in-law, step-brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, friend, and colleague. His singular brilliance and beauty, both inside and out, lit up every room; his judicious reasoning, attentive kindness, searching creativity, and commitment to the public good are but only a few of the infinite characteristics that made him an exemplary man. To be sure, Brad brought great joy to those who were lucky enough to know and love him.

Brad is deeply missed by his loving mother, Maureen Hargrave-Pawson; his sister, Sheila Szela; brother-in-law, Ben Patry; niece, Isabelle; nephew, Charlie; aunt and uncle, Eileen and Steve Martak; and cousins, Danielle Martak (Chris Giroux) and Natalie Martak (Jason Merker) here in Canada. He is also missed by his aunts, uncles, and cousins in Ireland, England, and the United States. Brad was predeceased a short eleven months ago by his beloved step-father Michael, who had a profound influence on his life.

Brad enjoyed many great friendship throughout his life, many of which were lifelong. His friends will miss his positive and sustaining presence in their lives, especially Dale Maruno, Chris Mester, Kevin Allicock, and Al Lee who have all been such wonderful life companions. From his early years at Westacres PS, through his time at Allan A. Martin SPS and Gordon Graydon Memorial SS, Brad was always enthusiastic about sports, participating in everything from curling to football. As an adult, Brad was a dedicated recreational hockey player and a focused, exacting and successful autocross competitor.

Combining his creativity with his love for all things digital, Brad was a graduate of the International Academy of Design in Toronto. After starting Zulu Design in his twenties, Brad went on to use his capacious expertise to enhance the many organizations with which he worked. A self-described libertarian, Brad was a staunch supporter of the PC party. In addition to his professional work on leadership campaigns, he also served as volunteer with and on the board of the Etobicoke-Lakeshore PC Riding Association and volunteered with the Kiwanis Club of Oakville.

A private cremation has taken place. Brad’s family invites friends and colleagues to celebrate his life and share memories of him on Wednesday, March 11, 2020 at the Markland Wood Golf Club, 245 Markland Drive, Toronto (TTC Rte. 49, or MiWay Rte. 3 to Islington subway) between the hours of 4:00pm and 8:00pm.

We invite you to share memories and post photographs on this site: https://www.rememberbrad.ca

In lieu of flowers, donations to The Mississauga Food Bank or a charity of your choice are appreciated.

Guestbook 

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Marilynn McCulloch (Kindergarten teacher)

Entered March 7, 2020 from Burlington

I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Brad’s passing. My sincere condolences to his family.

Katie Wright (Friend of Family)

Entered March 7, 2020 from Mississauga

Life does not make sense and losing someone as young as Brad is tragic. I am deeply sorry for your loss. Please accept my condolences.

Tom Law (Old friend)

Entered March 7, 2020 from Newmarket

Zulu will be forever missed. Leafs and Raps games won’t be the same without him.

Pera Miller (Family friend)

Entered March 7, 2020

I was shattered to hear the news of Brad's sudden passing and send my love and condolences to Maureen who at this time is still recovering from Michael's passing not so long ago. I will always remember Brad meeting us at the door with a big smile on the occasion of a gathering. He was so welcoming. Far too young to have left us.

Gerry Thibeault (Auto cross friend)

Entered March 7, 2020 from Melncthon, Ontario

Over a life time, my two conversations with Brad where relatively short. At the auto cross, Brad was the first person I was in contact with. Over the years Brad was just expected to be there. He helped out and made everyone feel welcome. He was always approachable. Brad was the most personable person I had ever met. I was blown away with this news. Our relationship didn't extend beyond the auto cross and Brad left a huge impression on me. Brad was the kind of person everyone could depend upon. He will be missed and I'm sure he touched everyone he had ever come into contact with. I cant believe I will not see his welcoming expression again! Rest in Peace Brad, you are unique and special person and will be missed by all!

Photos 

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