Charles Basil Gault of Red Deer, Alberta passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday June 23, 2018.
After a courageous fight with cancer over a number of years, Dad needed a good rest and his body agreed. We are sad, but grateful that his suffering has ceased. Sonny was born August 5, 1940 in Ottawa, Ontario to Basil (Slim) and Mary Gault. The youngest of five siblings Johnny, Eddie, Doris and Joyce, Sonny looked up to them with respect and pride. He was an avid athlete participating in numerous team sports during his youth and well into midlife. In 1959 Charlie chose to join the Canadian Navy and venture the life of the military. In 1960 he met Ann Holmes, fell in love and they were married. 1961 introduced Steve into Charlie and Ann’s life, followed in 1962 by Ricky and 1966 by Linda. As though sailing the worlds oceans was not already enough of an adventure for Dad, after learning Russian the Canadian Navy thought his skills would be best served in Inuvik NWT as part of the DEW Line. Subsequently he would also serve 6 months in Alert NWT. In 1969 Charlie decided that being away for long periods of time was enough, he studied and received a BA in business through distance learning, moved the family to Fort McPherson NWT, and spent a year as Assistant Town Administrator, then moved back to Inuvik. In 1975 the family moved to Bonnyville AB, where Charlie served as the towns Secretary Treasurer, then Transportation Manager. In 1987 tragedy struck as Ann passed away suddenly. Charlie met and married Helene Severyn in 1989 and with her children Michael, Patrick, Jennifer, Sarah, and James shared their lives together for a while, but chose to part ways. They remained friends and Helene helped to celebrate his 75th birthday in 2015. In 2005, Charlie retired from his position as Transportation Manager and moved to Red Deer AB to be with Linda. Charlie enjoyed reading and getting out to socialize in his retirement. He will be dearly missed and survived by his children, Steve (wife Joy), Ricky (wife Lila), Linda (husband Dave), grandchildren Erik, Carrie, Teddi, Sean, Kendra, Kristen, Tammi and Brandon as well as step grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren, nephews, nieces, extended family and friends. Rumour has it that Dad was also the proud owner of a 29 hand in the crib. In lieu of flowers please feel free to contribute to a cancer charity of your preference. As for Dad’s wishes there will not be a funeral service, instead please raise a glass with your favourite spirits and give a toast in remembrance of our Dad, Chasbo.