Canada’s Oldest Person and WWII Veteran Burdett Sisler Dies at 110

Burdett “Burd” Thomas Sisler, the oldest known living man in Canada and one of the world’s oldest Second World War veterans, has died at the age of 110. His family confirmed the news on Saturday, noting that Sisler passed away from natural causes on April 2, just two weeks before his 111th birthday.

A supercentenarian and longtime resident of Fort Erie, Ontario, Sisler lived through a century of immense global transformation, including two world wars and two pandemics. His life was defined by a spirit of resilience, a passion for technology, and a commitment to service.

Military Service and Technical Expertise

Sisler’s journey into military service was not straightforward. At age 28, he was rejected by the Royal Canadian Air Force due to poor sight in one eye. Rather than deterring him, this rejection sparked a lifelong interest in tinkering with technology.

He eventually enlisted with the army, where he served as a telecommunications mechanic and radar technician during the Second World War. In this role, he helped deploy the top-secret radar technology essential for shooting down German bombers.

A Life of Service and Work

Before his military service, Sisler’s connection to Canada began in childhood. Born in Akron, Ohio, on April 14, 1915, he moved to Toronto at the age of three when his father took a management position at the then-newly opened Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company factory to meet the rising demand for automobiles. Sisler later worked in the company’s mailroom.

Following the war, he settled in Fort Erie, Ontario, where he spent 30 years working as a border agent for the Canada Border Services Agency.

Secrets to Longevity and Embracing Change

Despite his age, Sisler remained remarkably adaptable. He embraced modern technology, using a smartphone and maintaining connections with friends in Hungary, Austria, and France via social media and email until recently.

When asked about the secret to his long life, Sisler offered simple, direct advice: stay alive, grab care of your body, don’t smoke, and don’t drink. He also remained physically active well into his later years, bowling until the age of 103.

Tributes and Legacy

Sisler’s passing drew condolences from the highest levels of Canadian government. Governor General Mary Simon and her husband expressed their sadness and sent condolences to his family. Veterans Affairs Minister Jill McKnight stated that Canada “owes a lasting debt to him and his generation.”

His son, Norm Sisler, described his father as someone who always looked for the lighter side of life and was known for joking around. “It’s certainly bittersweet,” Norm told reporters. “We were blessed to have him for so long.”

Sisler was predeceased by his wife, Mae, who died in 1985. He is survived by five children, 12 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and 14 great-great-grandchildren.

Key Takeaways: The Life of Burdett Sisler

• Age: 110 years old; oldest known living Canadian.
• Military Role: Army telecommunications mechanic and radar technician during WWII.
• Career: 30-year career as a border agent and former Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company employee.
• Health Advice: Avoid smoking and drinking, stay active (bowled until 103), and take care of the body.
• Family: Survived by five children and several generations of grandchildren.