BUCKLEY, CLAIR ALLAN - September 6, 1924 - August 20, 2011 - Clair passed away peacefully at home in Victoria, BC in the presence of family. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, a respected teacher, counselor, leader and mentor. He was a vibrant life force, as serious and committed as he was fun-loving. Born in Glen Falls, NB –youngest of eight - he grew up in Saint John NB. He joined the Canadian Army Infantry Pictou Highlanders leaving in 1946 as a Lieutenant. Clair attended McGill University graduating in 1950 with a BSc. in Physical Education. He was class president and a member of the Scarlet Key Society. He began a long career with the YMCA working in Montreal, Woodstock, Edmonton and Halifax. Part way through his YMCA career he attended Boston University and obtained a Masters in Adult Education. Clair continued his career moving to Ottawa, working in Fitness and Amateur Sport and later moved to Victoria BC as Director of Policy and Planning in the Ministry of Health. Upon retirement he founded a consulting company, Clair Buckley and Associates. Continuing his lifelong commitment to community service, he volunteered for the Canadian Cancer Society, eventually becoming President of the BC & Yukon Division. Clair will be deeply missed by Marilyn, his beloved wife of 65 years, children Alison, Alan (Lorna) and David, grandchildren Kristen and Matthew, sisters Rhena and Marj, nephews and nieces. Clair also leaves many wonderful friends from the Maritimes to the west coast. The family would like to offer heartfelt thanks to: Doctors Ross McKay and Bruce Sanders, Hospice and PRT, Home Care Nursing, Beacon Support Services, My Caregivers (Leslie and Catherine) and the many friends who offered support and kind words during Clair’s brief illness.
Friends are invited to a celebration of Clair’s life on Saturday, August 27th, 1 to 3pm at the Victoria Golf Club. Flowers are gratefully declined. In the spirit of Clair’s community giving, donate your time or money to the Canadian Cancer Society, or YMCA or Victoria Hospice or charity of your choice.
“The will to do, the soul to dare”