Obituary of Mae Basisty

Mae Basisty

30 Nov 1929 – 13 February 2021

It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the loss of our loved one. Mae was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She left this world peacefully after 91 years of loving her family fiercely, and her many friends faithfully.

Mae was born to Fred and Mary Sandul, in Rycroft, Alberta. She grew up in a farming community with three sisters, Ann Bahry (Joe), Jean Solomany (Fred), and Pauline Klaepatch (Steve), an older brother, Billy (Phyllis-Ann), and a twin brother Freddie (Mary). Mae and Freddie were the last surviving children, but sadly Mae’s twin passed only one day after her.  

Mae was very proud to have graduated high school and continued on to college in Edmonton. She worked in Edmonton for a few years before returning to Rycroft. It was there that she met Orest on Dec 31, 1953, at a New Year’s Eve dance. They were inseparable since that eve, and were married on May 31, 1956.  For decades after that day, they danced together at every opportunity! They also built their family over the next few years with the addition of three children, Brian, Bruce, and Lorann.  

Mae and Orest lived in Rycroft until 1971, when Mae and the kids moved to Fort St. John to join Orest, who was working there.  She worked for the Treasury Branch, and then the Northern Alberta Railway while living in Rycroft. While living in Fort St. John, she worked a variety of jobs, until retiring at the age of 69 from her job at the care home.  She was blessed by, and thankful for the many friendships she made during her working years!  Mae loved growing her garden, both produce and flowers. She was also skilled in the kitchen, and using her own produce, made many delicious meals for friends and family. Nobody left hungry – which was a source of great pride for her!  Her flowers gave her, and everyone who visited her yard, great joy.

Fore! Mae loved to golf! Other things that she took pleasure doing over the years were skiing, travelling, playing softball (she was a backcatcher), visiting friends and family, singing in the church choir, bible studies, and painting.

Mae took great pride in being a mother, and later a grandmother. She said she would have walked through fire for her children and grandchildren, and we know that to be true!

Mourning the loss of Mae are her husband of 64 years, Orest, her sons Brian (Shannon), and Bruce (Janet), and her daughter Lorann Shand (Greg), and her grandsons Jacob and Zachary Basisty, and Benjamin and Matthew Shand. Mae also leaves behind many wonderful nephews, nieces, and their families. She will be missed by her many friends.

The family would like to thank the staff at Peace Villas Long Term Care Facility, for both their exceptional care and kindness, and the love they gave her, and Orest, during her final years. It did not go unnoticed! Thank you to Dr. Brussow, for many visits, and providing great care for Mae. We would also like to thank the many people who visited, called, and sent cards to brighten her days. Special thank you’s to Rebecca McCord, and her son, Justin, for bringing her music and song that she so loved. Blessings to all the people who provided support through prayer. Last, but certainly not least, thanks to Pastor Andrew for visiting, praying for, and providing spiritual fellowship to both Mae and Orest, to Christine Clark (hospital chaplain) for many visits, prayers, and for your friendship, and to Robbie Carroll (Peace Villa chaplain) for beautiful music, prayers, and many visits. We are thankful for you all!

Due to COVID regulations no formal service will be held at this time.   A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date.  For friends so wishing, donations in Mae's memory may be made to Fort St John Hospital Foundation Peace Villas Fund, or a charity of your choice.

Very Respectfully, Reynars Funeral Home & Crematorium