Jen Wilkinson, April 16, 2026, Volume 7, Issue 16
The Fort Erie community is reflecting on a remarkable life well lived following the passing of Burdett “Burd” Sisler, a cherished resident, war veteran, and family patriarch who died peacefully on April 2 at the age of 110.
Just weeks shy of his 111th birthday, Sisler was widely recognized as Canada’s oldest living person and the oldest living Second World War veteran in North America. Yet, for those who knew him best, his legacy reaches far beyond records and recognition.
A ceremony celebrating his life brought together family, friends, and members of the community, including representatives from CBSA, local dignitaries and several local Legion branches. Members of Branch 71, where Sisler was a longtime and proud member, filled the gallery in a powerful show of respect. The service, which lasted about an hour, featured heartfelt tributes from three generations of his family.
While his life was marked by extraordinary milestones, his family emphasized that it was his role within the family that mattered most. They remembered him not for his accolades but as a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather whose warmth and guidance shaped generations.
Born April 14, 1915, in Akron, Ohio, during the First World War, Sisler moved to Canada as a young child. His early years coincided with a rapidly changing world, including the Spanish flu pandemic, and his life would ultimately span more than a century of profound global transformation.
In 1943, he answered the call to serve, joining the Canadian Armed Forces during the Second World War. He worked as a telecommunications mechanic and later as a radar technician and technical sergeant, contributing to Canada’s military efforts during a critical period in history.
Following his service, Sisler continued his commitment to his country through a 30-year career with the Canada Border Services Agency. Even in his later years, he remained a familiar and friendly presence in the community, known for his storytelling, humour, and genuine kindness.
His passing has been felt deeply across Fort Erie. In a tribute shared on social media, the town’s mayor thanked Sisler “for being an inspiration to us all,” echoing the sentiments of many who had the privilege of knowing him or hearing his stories. In recognition of his life and service, flags in Fort Erie were lowered and remained at half-mast until his funeral.
The community also found a powerful visual way to honour Sisler’s legacy. The Peace Bridge was illuminated in red and white in tribute to Burdett Thomas Sisler, Canada’s oldest living person, on the evening of April 7 and again on the night of his funeral, April 9. The display served as a striking symbol of national pride and local gratitude for a man whose life spanned generations.
Those who encountered Sisler often spoke of his humility despite his historic status. He carried his experiences lightly, choosing instead to focus on simple but meaningful values. One of his oft-shared pieces of advice captured that outlook: “Don’t take life too seriously, be kind. Everything, everyone does matters.”
Visitation was held midweek, with community members invited to pay their respects ahead of the funeral service at Benner Funeral Home. The Sisler family welcomed all who wished to attend, a reflection of the openness that defined Burd’s life.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory are being directed to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 71 in Fort Erie or to a charity of choice, continuing his lifelong spirit of service and community support.
As Fort Erie says goodbye, it does so with gratitude for a man who not only witnessed history but helped shape it through quiet service, enduring kindness, and an unwavering dedication to family and community. Burd Sisler’s legacy will live on in the many lives he touched and in the generations that follow.
