It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our father, in his 97th year, on Thursday, April 28, 2022 at Extendicare Van Daele in Sault Ste. Marie. We take great comfort knowing he is now reunited with our mother, Clarice. Dearest father of John (Sharon), Susan Armstrong (Brian), Wendy Merrett (Ron), Papa of Jeff and Ryan Basford, Angela Dizig (Steve), Shelly Predum (Chris), Derek Armstrong (Tina), John Merrett, Rebekah Brule (his beloved Tubby) (Gilles). Great Papa Bert of Paislee and Landon Dizig, Wayne, Connor and Logan Predum, Samantha and Brianna Armstrong, and Olivia and Liam Merrett. He is predeceased by his sister Norma (late Charlie). Dad will be fondly remembered by his many nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.
Dad was born in Port Arthur, Ontario, July 30, 1925 to Anna and Wilfrid Basford. He followed in his grandfather and fathers’ footsteps, working in carpentry at the Kam Lumber Company in Fort William, Ontario. He served our country by joining the Canadian Navy at the age of 18. He moved to Sudbury in 1954, worked at Carrington Lumber until he ran his own construction business. He served a term as president of the Sudbury Home Builders Association. He moved to Sault Ste. Marie in 1963, working at Soo Mill and Lumber Company until his retirement. Bert was a kind, fun loving man devoted to his family and friends. He had a unique sense of humour, a sparkle in his eye and the most wonderful, mischievous smile – he was instantly ready to tease at any opportunity. He was an avid fisherman, never eating his catch but enjoyed offering it to friends. He loved the sport of curling his entire life.
Respecting Dad’s wishes, a private celebration of life has taken place. Memorial donations to the Algoma Residential Community Hospice (ARCH) would be appreciated by the family.
A heartfelt thank you to the Extendicare Van Daele staff, for the loving care and compassion shown to our dad and to our family. A thank you to the special “Old Lady”.
Arrangements entrusted to Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Road, Sault Ste. Marie, ON, P6B 0B6, 705-945-7758).
