Burdett Sisler, believed to be Canada’s oldest living man and one of the world’s oldest Second World War veterans, has died at the age of 110.
His son said Sisler passed away surrounded by family after a recent decline in his health. He described his father’s life as long and fulfilling, calling the loss “bittersweet.”
Born in Akron, Ohio in 1915, Sisler moved to Toronto as a child and later served in the Canadian military during the Second World War as a radar technician. Although he trained for deployment overseas, the war ended before he was sent abroad.
After his military service, he worked with Canada’s customs services and spent his later years in Fort Erie, Ontario. His life spanned more than a century of major historical events and technological change.
Family members remembered him as a lighthearted and practical man with a strong sense of humour, who witnessed everything from world wars to modern digital technology. He was also active in community life, including hobbies such as music and electronics repair.
Public officials, including the Governor General and Veterans Affairs representatives, paid tribute to his service and long life, highlighting his role as part of a generation that helped shape modern Canada.
Sisler is survived by a large family, including children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.
