The Lougheed Funeral Home in Hanmer shook with sobs Friday afternoon, as the family and friends of Brian Burns filled the rooms to mourn the 36-year-old man's death.
Burns was found dead in a Pharand Street home in Hanmer on Sept. 13, after police responded to a 9-1-1 call at the residence around 12:20 p.m. An autopsy confirmed he died as a result of blunt force trauma.
As a result of the investigation, 20-year-old Patrick Bibeau, of Sudbury, has been taken into police custody and charged with first-degree murder.
The Greater Sudbury Police Service is continuing to investigate the incident.
“The circumstances that took Brian from us are horrific,” the presiding pastor said. “In these circumstances, there are always lots of questions, questions of why. But we don't know why.
“In a time of anger,... when we just want to lash out, we need to support each other, continue to love and continue to live, not focus on the negative.”
Burns' long-time friend delivered a eulogy at the service. As he recounted the times they'd had together, the friend brought laughter to a room filled with intense anguish and pain.
“This is the hardest thing I've ever had to do,” he said, through tears. “I'm trying to do him justice but I just can't.
“Brian brought joy to the lives of all he touched,” he said, adding Burns was the godfather of his child.
“I have my own memories of Brian, as I'm sure you all do. It may be selfish of me, but I want to keep those memories to myself.”
As sobs racked the man, he said, “I want to say more. I just can't.”
Burns' older sister, Pam Rich, waited until the service was nearly over to give the pastor a nod that she was ready to say something.
“I didn't know if I would be able to do this today,” she said. “But it will be my last chance.
“I know he's in heaven and I know he's up there looking down on us,” she continued. “I personally feel safer now that know he's watching over us.
“Every time I look at my son, I'll see Brian, and I'm thankful for that.”
