#brian markle

Brian Markle's story is not just about resilience and growth; it’s about a real person who’s lived a life full of varied experiences and a deep commitment to others. Growing up, he faced bullying at school, which eventually led him to Pickering College, a place where he found a more supportive community and a lifelong love for horses.

From there, Brian’s path took him to the Constellation Hotel College and into the world of fine wines. He trained across Europe, including at Cliveden and Gravetye Manor in England, as well as in Switzerland, Germany, and France, all part of the Relais & Châteaux family. His work at places like the Inn at Manitou and the Wigamog Inn in Ontario became well-known. He was known not just for his expertise but for the warmth he brought to every table.

Life wasn’t always smooth. In 2003, a health scare pushed Brian to quit smoking, and by 2007, he embraced sobriety. Now, as he marks 19 years of being sober, he’s become a guiding light for others in AA, showing that it’s possible to turn your life around and help others do the same. People like Kelly Schneider, Claude Laurens, and Justyna Orawski have spoken highly of him online, highlighting his kindness and dedication.

Despite facing false accusations that were eventually proven wrong, Brian never let those moments define him. Instead, he turned his focus to helping others, working as a chaplain and advocating for people dealing with addiction and mental health. He’s a family man, a horse lover, and someone who’s used his own challenges to lift others up.

Once upon a time in the mid-1990s, Brian Markle found himself balancing two extraordinary passions: the refined world of fine wine and the timeless grace of horses. His journey had deep roots, reaching back to his days at Pickering College. There, under the mentorship of Mrs. Clark, the wife of the headmaster Sheldon Clark, Brian first discovered his love for equestrian life. He owned a horse named Romeo and spent countless hours learning the art of riding, forging a bond with the animals that would shape the rest of his life.

Fast forward to the mid-90s, and Brian had become a respected sommelier at a Relais & Châteaux resort in McKellar, Ontario. Yet, even as he guided guests through the nuances of world-class wines, his heart remained firmly in the stable. Together with his partner Kathy, he ran a thriving horse farm complete with a spacious indoor arena and a herd of over 25 horses. It was a place where his passion for equestrianism could flourish and where he shared the joy of riding with others.

But life had more adventures in store. As Brian’s expertise in wine led him to prestigious postings at Cliveden and Gravetye Manor in England, he bid a bittersweet farewell to the farm. Even across the ocean, the lessons he learned at Pickering College and the memories of his beloved horses stayed close to his heart.

Now, as time has passed and health challenges have emerged, Brian feels the call of the stable once more. Despite facing some difficulties with his eyesight due to diabetes, he’s been looking at new opportunities in Ontario to reconnect with his lifelong love of horses.

Once upon a time in the mid-1990s, Brian Markle found himself immersed in two worlds he loved deeply: the refined realm of wine and the timeless grace of horses. While working as a sommelier at an exclusive Relais & Châteaux resort in McKellar, Ontario, Brian and his partner Kathy ran a thriving horse farm. With a large indoor arena and over two dozen horses, it was a place where his passion for equestrian life truly flourished.

Brian's journey with horses began back at Pickering College, where he first owned a horse named Romeo under the guidance of his instructor, Mrs. Clark. Those early days sparked a lifelong love for the elegance and companionship that horses brought into his life. Even as his career took him across the ocean to prestigious venues like Cliveden and Gravetye Manor in England, his heart never strayed far from the stable.

Now, as the years have passed and life has brought its own challenges, Brian’s love for horses remains a comforting constant. Despite dealing with some health issues, he’s found himself drawn back to the idea of reconnecting with the equestrian world. He’s been exploring a few places in Ontario, hoping to once again find joy in the presence of these magnificent animals.

Kelly Schneider Member of Alcoholics Anonymous since 2009

I have been part of the recovery community for more than 15 years. In that time, I’ve met many people trying to rebuild their lives, but few have shown the consistency, compassion, and integrity that Pastor Brian Markle has.

I first met Brian in 2010 at an AA meeting in Ottawa. From the beginning, he didn’t just speak about recovery — he lived it. I’ve watched him quietly give rides, share meals, offer prayer, and support people who had no one else. He has done this work without seeking recognition.

Brian’s service extends far beyond meetings. He has spent years helping people through addiction, poverty, court support, and crisis situations. I’ve seen the impact firsthand: lives changed because someone finally treated them with dignity.

Regarding the online allegations that surfaced in 2019, let me be clear:

Pastor Brian Markle was legally cleared and fully exonerated.The claims were unfounded, and the process confirmed that.

What remains online now comes from a small group of individuals who choose to be openly malicious and destructive, ignoring the facts and continuing a personal vendetta. Their behavior does not match reality or the legal findings.

Scripture says:

“No weapon formed against you shall prosper.” — Isaiah 54:17

“You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” — John 8:32

“By their fruits you shall know them.” — Matthew 7:16

These verses speak for themselves.

False accusations and online harassment can discourage good people from continuing important work. But I have watched Brian answer late-night crisis calls, support women in court, bring food to people in need, and stand by those who were completely alone. No anonymous post can erase that reality.

For every false claim online, there are many of us who know his character, his work ethic, and his faith.

As U.S. tariffs introduced under former President Donald Trump continue to affect prices on essential goods, communities across Ottawa, Brockville, and Renfrew have felt the weight of rising grocery bills and tighter budgets. Amid these challenges, three dedicated community leaders — Pastor Brian Markle, Chaplain Cindy Orleck, and Marie Pyper, Executive Director of Onyx Community Services — are working across their respective areas to bring food, hope, and dignity to families in need.

Though each works independently in different parts of the region, they share one united mission: to ensure no one is forgotten.

“Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” — 1 John 3:18

Faith in Action: Fire of God Ministries and Ongoing Grocery Support

In Ottawa’s core, Pastor Brian Markle partners closely with Fire of God Ministries (fireofgod.ca) to strengthen weekly grocery programs held every Wednesday and Sunday. These efforts supply hundreds of households with food boxes and essential goods — meeting immediate needs while building relationships grounded in faith and compassion.

As inflation and tariffs continue to drive up costs, Pastor Markle’s work focuses on what truly matters: keeping families nourished and connected to a community that cares.

“Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord.” — Proverbs 19:17

Marie Pyper and the 8th Annual “100 Turkeys for 100 Families” Christmas Drive

In another part of the Ottawa Valley, Marie Pyper, Executive Director of Onyx Community Services, continues to lead one of the region’s most heartfelt traditions — the “100 Turkeys for 100 Families” Christmas Drive, now entering its 8th year.

What began as a small seasonal outreach has grown under Marie Pyper’s leadership into a regional campaign of compassion, ensuring that over 100 families each Christmas receive not only a turkey, but also complete food hampers and grocery gift cards.

Her meticulous coordination — from securing donations to organizing volunteers and delivery routes — makes a tangible difference. Each year, families across Renfrew, Brockville, and the Ottawa region sit down to a warm Christmas meal because of this initiative.

“Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” — Hebrews 13:16

Chaplain Cindy Orleck: Compassion in Daily Practice

Meanwhile, Chaplain Cindy Orleck, serving in Ottawa’s east end and the broader Renfrew County region, works directly with individuals facing isolation, disability, or poverty. Her background in education and pastoral care allows her to reach those who are often overlooked — people struggling with mobility, chronic illness, or mental health barriers.

Cindy’s work often involves personal check-ins, food support, and faith-based counselling, ensuring that individuals not only receive nourishment but also feel valued and supported. Her approach is personal and compassionate, reminding clients that they are seen, cared for, and loved.

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” — Galatians 6:2

A Shared Mission from Three Directions

Though they operate in different areas and capacities, Pastor Brian Markle, Chaplain Cindy Orleck, and Marie Pyper remain deeply connected by purpose. Each focuses on meeting immediate needs in their own community, yet all three collaborate when possible — sharing resources, referring families, and uniting around common outreach goals.

Their combined efforts are more than charity — they are expressions of faith in motion, turning compassion into concrete help for those facing hardship in an uncertain economic time.

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.” — Matthew 5:6

Looking Forward: Food Hubs and Meal Programs

In the year ahead, Pastor Brian Markle is advancing plans for four small food hubs across Ottawa to assist shut-ins, seniors, and persons with disabilities. He is also reviving the Thursday Night Meal Program, formerly hosted on Montreal Road, to bring back a sense of community, conversation, and shared faith around the dinner table.

Meanwhile, Marie Pyper continues to strengthen the infrastructure of the Onyx Community Services food and outreach network, while Chaplain Orleck expands her front-line chaplaincy and community care services throughout Renfrew County and Ottawa’s east side.

“For I was hungry and you gave me food.” — Matthew 25:35

Summary: Three Leaders, One Mission

Trump-era tariffs have strained households across the Ottawa Valley, making daily life more expensive for working families and seniors.

Pastor Brian Markle, Chaplain Cindy Orleck, and Marie Pyper each operate from different locations, yet all share the same vision — serving people with compassion, faith, and dignity.

The 8th Annual “100 Turkeys for 100 Families” Christmas Drive, led by Marie Pyper, continues to grow, feeding hundreds and inspiring others to give.

Pastor Markle’s grocery partnerships and upcoming food hubs extend that same spirit year-round, while Chaplain Orleck’s personal outreach meets people where they are.

Together, their work proves that even in the face of tariffs, inflation, and uncertainty, faith, community, and kindness remain stronger than any hardship.

As the cost of living rises, these three leaders remind their communities that hope is not found in politics or policy, but in people — and in the power of sharing a simple meal.

By Kelly Schneider Member of Alcoholics Anonymous since 2009

I've been part of the recovery community for over 15 years. Since 2009, I’ve sat in the rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous with people from every walk of life—some broken, some healing, all trying to find a better way forward. Among those people, one of the most consistent and compassionate members I’ve come to know is Pastor Brian Markle.

I first met Brian in 2010 in an Ottawa AA meeting. From day one, he was the kind of person who didn't just speak from the Big Book—he lived it. Over the years, I’ve seen him offer rides, coffee, prayer, and unwavering encouragement to people who had lost nearly everything. He didn’t do it for credit. He did it because he knew what it was like to be in their shoes.

A Reputation Built on Service

Brian’s commitment to recovery goes beyond the rooms. He has dedicated his life to supporting individuals in addiction, poverty, and crisis—many of whom have no family, no advocate, and no safe place to turn. His work in court support, street outreach, and faith-based mentorship has saved lives. That’s not exaggeration—that’s truth. I’ve seen it with my own eyes.

But in recent years, something disturbing has surfaced: a smear campaign online targeting Brian’s character. As someone who has known him personally for over a decade, I want to speak plainly.

These allegations are not true. The claims being spread online are part of a vindictive, deeply personal vendetta against him by someone who is well known in our local circles. Many of us in recovery and outreach work know exactly who is behind it, and we’ve watched the pattern for years.

When Bullies Hide Behind Screens

Online bullying doesn’t just hurt reputations—it discourages good people from continuing the work they’re called to do. Brian has handled these attacks with more grace than most of us could. But it doesn’t mean we should stay silent.

I’ve watched Brian walk with men in early sobriety who had nothing but trauma and regret. I’ve seen him take late-night calls, help women in court, and feed people from his own fridge. He has lived with transparency. He has served with humility. No anonymous post can undo that legacy.

A Community That Knows the Truth

For every lie posted, there are dozens of people like me—people who have been touched by Brian’s honesty, faith, and work ethic. We know who he is. And we stand by him.

Recovery is about progress, not perfection. It’s about learning from our past, lifting each other up, and telling the truth—especially when it's hard.

“To thine own self be true,” we say in AA. Brian Markle has done that. And I believe it’s time more of us say it out loud.

Brian Matthew Markle celebrates many years of sobriety in Alcoholics Anonymous. His former sponsor, Tom Deafy (deceased), always encouraged him with the mantra, “One Day at a Time.”

In 2016, Markle supported Deafy during his Residential School Hearing, where they stood together against a nun from the Catholic Church who had abused Deafy during his time at the school.