It is with great sadness that we announce the passing away of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and great-uncle.
Basil Larence Zakordonski passed away peacefully on July 2, 2017 at the age of 87 at Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital with his loving wife and family by his side.
He was born in Mundare, Alberta on May 6, 1930 to Dmytro and Dora Zakordonski. and was the youngest of seven children.
Basil moved from the Alberta prairies to the BC mountains at the age of 21 where he pursued a career in mining, underground and diamond drilling. He met his wife, Florence, who he married on April 28, 1952 and together they raised their 4 children.
Basil’s guitar and violin were his passion and he was active throughout his life playing music as a member of the Rhythm Aires, the Old Time Fiddlers and the West Kootenay Blue Grass Society. He also built his homes, curled, golfed, square danced, enjoyed watching hockey and ball, and volunteered for the Salmo Fire Department. Basil owned the Reno Motel in Salmo for many years and worked for the Village of Salmo for 27 years before retiring in 1992.
Basil and Florence travelled a lot throughout the years from California to Mexico, Hawaii, and they also enjoyed a wonderful trip across Canada. They made many friends and continue to do so playing music in senior homes throughout the Kootenays. Basil’s love for music was impeccable, always music in his heart and home but his great love for his family was number one.
Basil is survived by his loving wife Florence of 65 years, of Salmo, his 4 children; Shirley (John) Hudec of Salmo, David (Theresa) of Grande Prairie, Dwayne (Dena) of Burnaby and Sandi (Tom) Oorthuis of Fruitvale, his grandchildren; David Jr., Celena (Shane), Raycene (Tyler), Kaylee, Kyle, Brittany (Charles), Sherri, Darcy, Mantis and his great-grandchildren; Keegan, Madison, Shyanne, Lily, Ruthie and Bethany and many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents Dmytro and Dora Zakordonski, his sister Anne, his brothers; Nick, Paul, John, Joe and Mike, and his grandsons Shaun and Joshua.
Our family would like to express our appreciation to the Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital including Dr. Mike Inniss and Dr. Natana Dixon-Warren and the staff for their compassion and care. We would also like to thank the Salmo Wellness Centre and the Salmo Valley Estates for their kindness and support.
A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, July 29 from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm at the Salmo Valley Community Centre at 206 7th Street, Salmo, BC officiated by Pastor Gerald Hutchman. Al Grywacheski of Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services™ has been entrusted with arrangements.
As an expression of sympathy, donations can be made in Basil’s honour to any of the Salmo Community organizations of your choice.
Basil had so many wonderful friends throughout his years and he cherished all of you.
You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence at the family’s online register at www.myalternatives.ca