Jai Steven Burnside

Jai was born in Duncan, BC to parents Steve and Dawn.

From a young age, Jai was an adventurous soul who loved to be outside exploring and doing his own thing. Conventional expectations did not suit Jai, and he decided to leave school early and start working, learning life lessons through work and experience, rather than sitting in a classroom.

Jai started his first job, as a farm hand, at age 13. Over the years Jai had many jobs from farming to running excavators and could mechanically ‘fix’ almost anything that ran (or mostly didn’t in his case).

For fun, Jai loved getting out into the bush, jeeping, riding his dirt bike or side by side, checking out caves, and exploring different trails, all over the island.

His mom, who affectionately called him Son, remembers him as a curious, wonderful little boy, who always tried so hard to help his dad, even using his little hammer one time to help ‘fix’ the glass door.

Fondly, his dad shares, that Jai loved deeply, especially animals, and without hesitation, would jump in to help anyone in a crisis. Jai says that dad was his best friend.

His brother, Jeremie, could often be found with Jai on one escapade or another, and while at odds from time to time, they shared a deep connection and cherished each other, as only brothers can.

Jai had a great sense of humour and connected well with kids, especially his nephews Jax, William, and Matthew, because, of course, he was a big kid himself! To that end he was a consistent pain in the side to his sister Gypsy, who loved him dearly anyway.

For the past several months Jai had been spending more time with his family, joining in birthday and holiday celebrations, and looking forward to many more future plans. Unfortunately, just days shy of his 47th birthday, Jai lost his battle with addiction, and passed away from an accidental overdose.

Jai’s family is proud of him for continuing to try and overcome his challenges, no matter how difficult, for his ability to help others feel seen that otherwise may not, and for always trying to become a better version of himself.

In spirit, Jai has joined his beloved pets, Baxter, Charlie, Buddyguy, and Frank, as well as grandparents and friends he has now been reunited with.

Jai leaves behind his dad Steve (Katelyn), mom Dawn, sister Gypsy, brother Jeremie (Shannon), nephews Jax, William, and Matthew, as well as many family and friends.

He will be loved and missed always.

A Celebration of Jai’s Life will be held at Vimy Hall, 3968 Gibbins Rd, Duncan, BC from 1-3pm on March 14th.