Burdett Sisler, recognized as Canada’s oldest World War II veteran, has passed away at the remarkable age of 110. His son, Norm Sisler, announced the news in a heartfelt Facebook tribute, describing his father as “an inspiration to all of us and the country.” Sisler died of natural causes on April 2, 2023, just two weeks shy of his 111th birthday.
Wayne Gates, the NDP Member of Provincial Parliament for Niagara Falls, also paid tribute to Sisler on social media. He remembered him as “an incredible person” who proudly served Canada during the Second World War. Gates mentioned that he was honored to have Sisler nominate him for the position of MPP in several elections. He recalled presenting Sisler with the King Charles Coronation medal at his 110th birthday celebration, emphasizing the loss Canada has faced with Sisler’s passing. “I will miss Burd, his wisdom, his laughter, and the time we spent together,” Gates expressed.
Mary Simon, the Governor General of Canada, conveyed her condolences, stating that she was "saddened" by the news of Sisler's death. She highlighted that he was part of the generation that helped shape modern Canada, having witnessed significant historical moments while exemplifying the values of service and perseverance that still inspire many today.
Burdett Sisler was born in Akron, Ohio, but moved to the Toronto area when he was just three years old. He met his future wife, Mae, through a high school classmate, and they married in 1939, shortly after Britain declared war on Germany. When Sisler enlisted in the Royal Canadian Army in 1943, Mae feared he would deploy overseas and not return. In response, they welcomed a baby girl during that year.
Initially, Sisler wanted to join the Royal Canadian Air Force, but he was turned away due to having “one bad eye.” Instead, he enlisted in the army and volunteered for chemical warfare trials in Ottawa, a controversial series of experiments that exposed soldiers to chemical and biological agents, leaving many with long-term health complications. He recalled that one trial involved using mustard gas on his skin for 14 days, ultimately resulting in a raise in pay.
Years later, Sisler participated in a class-action lawsuit against the Department of National Defence, which resulted in a settlement for those affected by the trials. He trained as a military gunner in Nova Scotia and furthered his education with radar training in Barriefield, Ontario, eventually becoming a telecommunications mechanic. In 1945, Sisler joined the Corps of Royal Canadian Electrical Mechanical Engineers, rising to the rank of sergeant. However, the Second World War concluded before he had the opportunity to engage in combat abroad.
After his military service ended in 1947, Sisler worked with the Royal Canadian Ordnance Corps in Montreal, where he inspected war equipment returning from Europe. He spent 13 months on that assignment before being discharged due to demobilization. Returning to civilian life, Sisler settled his young family in Fort Erie and became a customs agent at the Peace Bridge border crossing with the Department of National Revenue.
In addition to his civil service, Sisler showcased his musical talents by singing in a barbershop quartet during the 1960s and co-running a business that repaired TVs and radio sets. He is survived by a large family, including 11 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and 14 great-great-grandchildren.
A funeral service is set to take place on April 9, 2023, in Fort Erie, allowing family, friends, and the community to honor the life and legacy of Burdett Sisler.
Files from Meredith Bond were used in this story.
