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Francis Edward (Buddy) DeVito

October 29, 2014

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Francis Edward (Buddy) DeVito passed away peacefully at home in Fruitvale, BC on October 29, 2014 at the age of 94.

Buddy was born in Trail, BC on May 23, 1920 to Genevieve and James DeVito. In June 1938, Buddy began working with his father in the DeVito Shoe Repair shop at 1267 Cedar Avenue, in Trail. In 1941 Buddy enlisted in the RCAF as a radar technician and in August 1942 was sent overseas. While there Buddy met and married Bette Flower in South Wales in 1944, and they returned to Trail in 1945. He went back to work with his father in the shoe repair shop, and eventually assumed ownership. He retired in 1985.

Buddy was a life member and Past President of the Royal Canadian Legion. He was elected an alderman in Trail from 1955 to 1959. In June 1960 he and his family moved to Sudbury, Ontario where he worked for the Mine Mill Union. In 1966 he returned to Trail and was elected Mayor, a position he held from 1967 to 1973. He was also Chairman of the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary. Buddy was a strong proponent of peace and was active in several peace groups. He was known among his friends and family as a heartfelt socialist and never failed to make his views public.

He was predeceased by his parents Genevieve and James, his siblings Leonard, Robert and Vera, and his former wife Bette.

Buddy is survived by his long-time partner Maureen Mitchell, his daughter Dawn (Peter), his sons Gordon (Anne), Paul (Giselle) and Vincent (Shellee), and seven grandchildren.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Buddy’s life will be held at a later date. In loving memory of Buddy a donation to the charity of your choice would be most appreciated.



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