Rev. Marie Loewen, Interim
Marie has lived most of her adult life in North Bay. Born and raised in a Christian home in Southern Ontario, she moved to the north as a young bride and now considers herself a Northerner. She is a life-long follower of Jesus who previously enjoyed time as a stay at home Mom, a banker and an insurance industry professional. She values, deeply, her evangelical heritage while finding the rich Anglican tradition a home for her spirit. Her discernment for ordination was formed at St Brice’s and so “coming home” as she retires has been a blessing for both her and husband Robert. She is profoundly thankful for the privilege of having been able to serve the loving congregations of St. Mary Magdalene in Sturgeon Falls and Christ Church North Bay. She has a particular interest in Spiritual Direction and companioning. In the community she is involved with a number of activities, most notably Near North Palliative Care. She and Rob enjoy time with their three adult children and their families, traveling, gardening, reading just being with people.
Edie Fluet, Rector's Warden
Edie Fluet is a retired nurse with 45 years experience. She is a widow and her housemate is a rescued, spoiled cat named Dylan. Her past-times are crossword and various type of puzzles, gardening and reading and writing, although presently she is learning Tai-Chi. She is a member of St. Brice’s Anglican Church in North Bay and is involved in many activities within the church, such as The Altar Guild, The Food Bank and a member of the Board. She also volunteer at teas and luncheons, some of which are to raise money for Missions. She has been a member of Alanon since 1972, which requires me to sponsor other members and sometimes speak at gatherings and also give emotional support to other when needed. She is in reasonably good health for her age (78) and enjoys each new day she is given.
Bob Gray, Deputy Rector’s Warden
Bob Gray is from the village of Magnetawan, in the Almaguin Highlands area of East Parry Sound. He left to pursue a career with the Ontario Provincial Police, and served over 30 years as an OPP officer.
Bob and his wife, Teresa, moved their family to North Bay in 2008, when he accepted a
posting to the O.P.P. Forensics Unit in the city. He retired from the service in 2015.
The couple have attended St. Brice’s for the past ten years. In addition to serving as a warden, Bob is a member of the St. Brice’s Worship Band, and also serves as a helper with the Teen Lunch Program at the church.
Gary Thoms, People’s Warden
Gary Thoms has been an active member of St. Brice’s for the past 29 years. While born and raised in a Newfoundland outport community, an extensive career as a Electronic Maintenance Technologist with the Royal Canadian Air Force, resulted in a final posting to North Bay, Ontario. Now retired, Gary spends time enjoying his many hobbies such as woodworking, travelling, amateur luthier, genealogy and maintaining a heritage home in Newfoundland. For many years, Gary has been a member of St. Brice’s praise and worship band, being the guitarist and backup vocalist. He also has a history of involvement with the Screening in Faith program and as a sidesperson.
Barb Bonenfant, Deputy People's Warden
Barb has been apart of the St Brice’s family for over 30 years. During this time Barb has
been involved in many ministries, with the praise and worship band being her passion.
The Cursillo movement is an Anglican community involvement of hers, growing and
sharing her faith. She is happily married to Don Bonenfant, for over 30 years now. Together they have raised two adult sons.
Now retired from a career as an educator, she has enjoyed nurturing children watching them grow into independent adults. Travelling and photography are two of her favourite activities, meeting new people and exploring the beauty of novel places and people.
Don Bonenfant, Treasurer
Don was born in Chapleau and moved with his family to North Bay
when he was nine. He has been a member of St. Brice’s for over 30
years and the treasurer for the last 10 years. Don served on the
Advisory Board for 15 years and also takes care of PowerPoint. His
career was in the Parts Business spending 20 years in the automotive
industry and 20 years with the railway. He retired in April 2025 and
loves it. Don is happily married to Barb Bonenfant for over 30 years
and they have two adult children. He loves bicycling in the summer,
travelling and time with family and friends.