Image: Kent Harrison Search and Rescue

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Search and rescue volunteer

Kent Harrison Search and Rescue sadly loses one of its best, most knowledgeable volunteers

Mar 4, 2025 | 7:22 AM

AGASSIZ — An Agassiz-area resident who volunteered for over three decades with Kent Harrison Search and Rescue as a manager and was just recognized last week by the District of Kent has sadly passed.

KHSAR announced Monday night (Mar. 3) that Neil Brewer, a 35-year search and rescue manager and one of its most outstanding and knowledgeable members, has died.

“Today, KHSAR lost a giant in the world of BC SAR. Neil Brewer served with KHSAR for 35 years as our most experienced and knowledgable SAR Manager,” KHSAR said. “He leaves behind a powerful legacy that extends far beyond our community, as he was a driving force and leader in many projects that continue to benefit SAR teams across the province. Neil carried KHSAR to where it is today and we will forever be grateful for his passion, dedication, and tremendous contributions to the team. We will miss him dearly and strive to honour his legacy. Rest in peace, Neil. Bravo Zulu.”

Brewer was involved in more than 600 search and rescue tasks and logged countless hours helping to secure funding for essential equipment for search and rescue groups across the province.

In light of his his hard work and dedication towards constructing a new Kent-Harrison Search and Rescue building in 2017, and his dedication to KHSAR, Brewer was recognized in February 2025 with the Freedom of the District of Kent Award, the honest honour the municipality can bestow upon an individual or organization.

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In a news release from the district, the Freedom of the District of Kent recognizes individuals and groups of exceedingly high merit who have made outstanding long-term contributions to the District of Kent. Recipients of this honour must have made outstanding long-term contributions to the district, made a significant improvement to district life and culture and be recognized by their peers and outside of the district.

Since joining the Kent-Harrison Search and Rescue Team, Brewer received awards and recognition for his exemplary contributions, including Certificate of Achievement Award, the Search and Rescue Volunteer of the Year Award, and the B.C. Medal of Good Citizenship. The district says these awards were presented to Brewer based on recommendations from Provincial Search and Rescue Groups who have recognized his determination, skill, and exemplary leadership.

“Through unwavering dedication, remarkable achievements, and a commitment to the values of our District, Neil has significantly enhanced the lives of both our residents and visitors to the area, as well inspiring others to strive for excellence,” District of Kent wrote in a statement. “In recognition of his outstanding impact and service to the community, the Freedom of the District of Kent was awarded to Neil Brewer on February 24, 2025.”

Hope Volunteer Search and Rescue wrote a touching tribute to Brewer for his dedication to the SAR community.