Brian Tustin

I first met Brian in 2018 when I began working at his go-to hobby shop, Broughdale Hobby. In my first few weeks there, I came to realize Brian was a regular visitor, coming in at least once a week to chat with the owner, a long time friend of his. In time, we came to talk regularly as well, and we both came to see each other as friends. Over time, I had the privilege of getting to know Brian. He was a very private man, but if asked, he could talk for great lengths about his life, his work history, and his many interests. One of our favorite topics of discussion was his love of film. Though not interested in television, he had an extensive collection of DVDs he'd amassed over the years, with a wide variety of films of various genres. Christmas films he had a particular affinity for, and I remember his annual tradition of watching several a day throughout the month of December, culminating in the 1951 version of "A Christmas Carol" starring Alastair Sim, on Christmas eve. The history of London was another topic he always enjoyed. Having been a Londoner for his whole life, he knew the city like few others, having a keen memory of locations of streets and businesses, many of which have long since vanished with the passing of time. One of my favorite memories with him was looking through old photos of London on Facebook, and stopping on nearly each one for him to share memories he'd recalled. The other great fascination of his life was railways, an interest which inspired his friendship with the store in the first place. His passion for rail was matched only by his knowledge; there were few questions you could ask him about the railroad industry he didn't have an answer for, and any question would inspire a long, informative conversation. In his years pursuing the hobby, he'd amassed an extensive collection of railroad memorabilia, more than enough to put small museums to shame. I remember quite fondly those exciting occasions when he'd bring some antique from his agglomeration to the store for an impromptu "show-and-tell", entertaining us with his layered stories of its origin and use. It's moments like these that ensure I'll always miss Brian Tustin for as long as I live. He was a devoted brother, a loving uncle, and a truly loyal friend. But while our long conversations may have come to an end, and there are no more memories of laughter and misadventure left to be made, I am truly grateful to have had that opportunity at all. I'll always be grateful to have known Brian, and even more so that I had the chance to call him friend.