Mcdonald, Basil Gerard

In loving memory of our husband, father, grandfather, teacher and friend. Basil was born and raised in Fort William, Ontario, where he married and had four children: Daniel, Bruce, Bryan and Shannon. He would have celebrated his 49th Wedding Anniversary with his wife, Vera Mae, this September 27th, 2003. He was the pastpresident of the Westfort William Kiwanis Club, and volunteered at the annual Kiwanis Christmas Tree lot for many years. Basil was a professional musician from his early twenties, sharing his music with thousands; but it wasn't until the 70's that he found his passion. Teaching others to play became the focus of his career. Basil taught hundreds of students, of all ages, and made friends of every one of them. Mentoring each through much more than music. By night, he still played jobs, from socials of all kinds and local pianobars tothe hockey games; where he once caught a puck with one hand while continuing to play with the other. In the 1980's, he found his other passion: his land. A home in the country, with 10 acres of God's green earth for his very own. The passion was not just for the land, but for the tractor with which he tended the land. He created his 'park', through hard labor and help from his trusty tractor he gradually turned his 3 acres, into winding trails for his family and friends to enjoy. He also routinely cut 7 acres of lawn. A task taking up to 14 hours, many of which were shared with his grandchildren. Whether they were 'helping' to drive, or fast asleep on his lap, time with Grandpa on his tractor was special indeed. Basil enjoyed the better part of his last decade in the Okanogan. He treasured all the incredible examples of God's creation,throughthe valley, which helovedtoexplore. Although distance separated him from most of his family, Basil was blessed with a wonderful circle of friends, and fellow musicians in Kelowna. His children were all able to be with him in his last days, for which we are all grateful. Basil passed away peacefully, with his family at his side on Wednesday September 24th, 2003. It was his 70th year. Cremation and a private celebration of his life have taken place. Donations to the Cancer Society would be greatly appreciated.