Remembering Burdett Sisler
Burdett Sisler, Canada's oldest citizen and a veteran of the Second World War, passed away on April 4 at the age of 110. Born on April 13, 1915, in Akron, USA, he served in Nova Scotia during the war. His career included military service and a 45-year tenure as a customs agent in Fort Erie. He was a devoted family man, raising five children and leaving behind a legacy of 11 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and 14 great-great-grandchildren. His wife, Mae, predeceased him in 1985.
The Secrets to a Long Life
Sisler was a remarkable example of longevity and an active lifestyle. At 105, he set a personal goal to reach 110. He maintained his independence for many years, driving until he was 100 and living alone until 107. He attributed his long life to a few simple principles:
- Avoid alcohol;
- Do not smoke;
- Stay physically active;
- Remain engaged with life.
His favorite pastimes included bowling, bingo, and keeping up with current events. He left behind a piece of timeless wisdom:
"Treat others the way you want to be treated."
Longevity is a global phenomenon, with notable examples also found in Ukraine. Paraskovia Gural, born on April 7, 1926, in the village of Stari Kryvotuly in the Ivano-Frankivsk region, recently celebrated her 100th birthday; she served as a liaison for the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) at the age of 13. Another centenarian, Oleksii Likhtorovych, a WWII veteran, marked his 101st birthday in Lutsk. These stories highlight not just long life, but the enduring importance of an active lifestyle and values passed through generations.
The passing of Burdett Sisler is a significant event that underscores the value of longevity and vitality. His life journey serves as a powerful reminder of the principles that can be handed down to future generations. The examples from Ukraine further demonstrate how a healthy, engaged approach to living can positively impact both lifespan and quality of life in one's later years.
The stories of remarkable individuals like Burdett Sisler and Paraskovia Gural illustrate the resilience and strength of those who lived through challenging times. Gural, a centenarian who served as a courier for the Ukrainian Insurgent Army, also embodies the spirit of longevity and active engagement in life. Her experiences and insights into aging provide a compelling perspective on what it means to thrive well into one's later years.