The family of Dylan Drew Mainville is deeply saddened to announce his passing on October 3, 2026.
Born on December 28, 1989, in Fort Frances, Ontario, Dylan lived a life that was anything but ordinary. He had a bright personality, a big smile, and a contagious laugh that could bring joy to those around him. He made friends wherever he went and left a lasting impression on the hearts of so many. Dylan had a way of making people feel welcome, bringing laughter into a room, and creating joy for others, even when life wasn’t always easy.
Dylan had a passion for the things he loved and the people he held close. Much of his time was spent on the golf course, where every round began the same way: listening to “One Headlight” by The Wallflowers. Whether he was golfing, watching hockey, talking baseball, playing guitar, or sharing one of his many random facts, Dylan always had something to say and a story to tell. He was a devoted fan of the Toronto Blue Jays and Toronto Maple Leafs and had the opportunity to watch his favourite teams play live many times. He loved hockey and always enjoyed watching his step son play the game. Dylan also had a special admiration for Doug Gilmour and loved sharing his knowledge of just about everything.
Music was a big part of Dylan’s life. He loved to sing and play guitar, a passion he shared with his daughters Karsyn, Sawyer, and Lennyn. He and Karsyn enjoyed attending concerts together, she inherited his love for music across many genres. Sawyer shared her dad’s love of reptiles, and one of their recent adventures took them to Winnipeg to pick out a gecko just for her. Lennyn loved joining her dad on the golf course and making up dances with him. Each of his girls shared a special bond with their dad, built on laughter, love, and memories they will carry with them forever. Dylan was a proud and devoted girl dad, and his girls will forever remember his bear hugs, his laughter, and the way he loved them.
Dylan leaves behind his three amazing daughters who were the absolute centre of his universe. He is also survived by his fiancé Liz and step-son, Carson. Dylan will be deeply missed by his mother Arlene Bruyere; his brothers: Alex Bruyere and his sons Chase and Chael; Magoo and his children Zakk, Zoey, Zander, Zara, and Zayda; Michael and his children Koby, Olive, and Theo; his sister Jessica and her children Charlee, Eli, and Lukey; along with so many other relatives, friends and extended family.
Dylan shared a deep and special bond with his brothers and his Couch Boys: Aug, Mike, Magoo, Irv, Faron, Cam, Ben, Cole and Andrew. These friendships were more than friendships; they were family. He was fiercely protective of those he loved, especially his sister, and was always someone who would stand up for the people closest to him. His hockey family, golf family, and countless friends will remember the conversations, the jokes, the shared memories, and the unmistakable presence that made Dylan who he was.
Dylan’s love for his community was reflected in the work he dedicated his life to. Through his work at Ge-Da-Gi Binez Youth Centre, Weechi-it-te-win Family Services, and as the Couchiching education coordinator, Dylan spent much of his life working to protect, support, and advocate for children. During the final year of his life, Dylan spent time back in the community where he felt he truly belonged, he loved working along his little cousin Courtney; being surrounded by connections and a sense of home meant so much to him.
Of course, no tribute to Dylan would be complete without mentioning his love of Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon, his ability to turn an ordinary conversation into a fascinating collection of random facts, or his status as one of Domino’s most loyal customers. These little things, along with his favourite songs, his sports debates, and his unmistakable laugh, are the memories that will continue to bring smiles through the tears.
Dylan was reunited in rest with his beloved Grandma Dee, Papa Lou, Grandma Maggie, and Papa Doug. He was also predeceased by his aunts Debbie and Colleen; as well as his friends Mike Roach, Nolan Windigo, Jesse Morriseau, Steve “Stove” Mainville and Clayton “beef” Windigo.
Above all else, Dylan will be remembered for his big heart, his loyalty, his humour, and his fierce love for his family. He was a protector, a storyteller, a music lover, a loyal friend, and a father who found so much joy in being there for his girls. His life touched more people than he may ever have realized, and the love he gave will continue to live on through his children, his family, and the many people fortunate enough to have known him.
Though his time here was far too short, the memories he created will last a lifetime. His girls will grow up carrying pieces of him in the music they listen to, the songs they sing, the laughter they share, and the love they give to others.
Dylan will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.
Arrangements entrusted to Northridge Funeral Home Ltd. Emo, Ontario.
