Passed away peacefully in his sleep, in the early morning of March 13, 2021 at the age of 69. Survived by his loving wife Donna (McKendry) Sandy of 48 years. Cherished father of Sean (Maaike), and Derek (Hana). Adored grandfather of Liam. Brother and brother-in-law of Malcolm (Terry) and Stuart (Laura). Predeceased by his mum Elizabeth (2010) and his dad Roy (2014). Ian will be forever remembered by his numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins in Canada and Australia, and also fondly remembered by his dearest friends.
Ian was born in England, moved to Canada at a young age, initially Ontario, then moving west and working for Shell Chemicals. He was then transferred to the Rotterdam office for six years and took his family along for the ride. This allowed him to finally take the trip to Egypt that he had dreamt of since he was a young man. After the stint in Rotterdam they moved back to Calgary for 11 years to enjoy retirement. They finally settled in Lucan, ON so they could be near their children and Ian could work on the old Japanese motorbikes that he was most passionate about.
Visitation will be held at Haskett Funeral Home, 223 Main Street, LUCAN on Thursday evening from 6 – 8 PM. Due to Provincial COVID-19 restrictions, each person must RSVP for the visitation. Please click “Register Now” below to register.
A private family graveside service will be held at the King City Cemetery on Friday, March 19th at 11 AM. Though the service is private, the family invites you to join with them from the comfort of your home. Stream the service live or at your convenience by visiting www.facebook.com/haskettfh.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated by the family.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Wayne Olson
I just saw this on the passing of Ian and would like to offer condolences on your loss. I never met Ian face to face, but when I embarked on the restoration of my GT750 we were in contact both online and on the phone. He offered help, encouragement and inspiration to me and asked for nothing in return. He even went so far as to locate a part that was unavailable in the US and got it to me when I really needed an assist. That is a familiar story I am sure, but I thought it was worth noting because it says much about Ian’s character and his desire to help others. No one will miss him more than his family but there are many that will feel the loss.
David Shipley
I always enjoyed my chats with Ian; I left having learned something new each time. We have lost a good person. My condolences to Donna and the family. Ian will live on in our memories.
Olaf Starck
I was deeply saddened to hear of Ian’s passing. His awesome website is what got me up to speed on old Suzuki’s–especially the GT750. Ian provided parts that I couldn’t find anywhere else and encouragement when I needed it. The vintage motorcycle community has lost a true friend. Rest in peace.
Rose Allan
Dear Donna and Family
My deepest sympathies on the unexpected loss of Ian. He will live on in your hearts and memories. I’m glad you have your family near for support during this difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Rick Best
Donna & Family:
Fern and I were saddened to learn of Ian’s sudden passing. He still had so much to live for and to contribute to the
vintage motorcycle community in Canada and around the world. Ian and I had many discussions while he was creating his famous “Field Guides” for various motorcycles but especially Suzukis which were near and dear to him. I was honoured to be asked by Ian to help with those creations.
The stories of his restoration work on motorcycles were always a pleasure to hear and his attention to detail in such work were an inspiration to all in the vintage motorcycle community. I have many fond memories of the various stories he would relate to our group during our weekly Monday Morning Meetings at McDonald’s in Deer Run. He will be sorely missed when those meetings resume in the future.
Ride on, Ian, because all your troubles are now in your rear view mirrors and the sun is always shining to make your rides perfect. I’ll miss you, buddy.
Paul & Robin Krig
We were sorry to hear of Ian’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in this difficult time.
I have fond memories of many discussions with Ian while working for Shell.
I always like to talk with him about the adventures he had taken or the ones he was planning.
He was a good man and will be missed.
Kim and Connie Gilroy
Dear Donna : we are so sorry to hear of Ian’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Wish we could share some wine to toast Ian. We still really miss you here on Deer Side.
Sue Catxhpole
Sadness shared from afar. So sorry we will not get to know our cousin better. Sue, Alan & Greg x
Lynda, Frans and Vincent Boot
We would like to send our deepest condolences to Donna, Sean and Derek and families, for the loss of their dear family member. We belong to the Rotterdam segment of Ian’s life, as a High School teacher to Sean and Derek (Lynda), fellow AISR student (Vincent), and social friends (all three of us) at the many AISR school gatherings. Ian often helped with computer questions and problems at our school, and as Derek mentioned in his Eulogy at the graveside, was a constant attendee, together with Mom, Donna, at all of the many school presentations and sports activities in which the boys were involved.
Ian’s love for travel was well documented, as the boys would regale us all with stories about their travels after every school vacation. Thanks to their Dad, they also knew how to fix any computer problem encountered at school by fellow students and the teachers, alike! As it was mentioned by the boys’ uncle, Ian did not suffer fools gladly, and as a teacher, I have seen that frown on several occasions! However, as the boys’ teacher, I found Ian to be an extremely pragmatic person, and it there was a problem, there was always a solution, and it could always be talked about, and a solution could be reached. Ian was the type of parent a teacher really values.
We only recently put away Ian and Donna’s Christmas card, with that beautiful photo of he and Donna together. I am glad for Donna that she is now near to her sons, because they and their families can surely help to soften the feeling of loss that she, and all of them, must now be feeling. We wish you all great strength in the difficult time ahead. Please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers, and that others, along with you, will miss him greatly. He was a truly amazing, wonderful and kind man.
Jean Sloan
You’re close in my thoughts and prayers! I’m so very sorry Donna!
Sally Young
We were shocked and saddened to hear about cousin Ian. I have met up with you both in Australia, UK, Netherlands and Canada over the years, and remember Ian’s kindness and hospitality to me and my family. He had a most bemused expression when I insisted he show me the water drainage secrets of Canadian homes with basements ! He was such a nice guy. Much love to Donna and the family during this difficult time from Aunt Ros, Fiona and Sally.
Brenda
My heartfelt condolences Donna.
I’ve always looked up to you both with such admiration.
A love that encompassed a world within itself. You two have been the absolute sweetest couple that radiated in all you two did together and all that you have given so freely to others. From much laughter to your time, his wisdom, lol and from both, your compassion.
You have been incredible parents and I’m so happy Ian felt that absolute bliss of becoming a grandpa.
I could not begin to imagine your heart ache as Ian was truly your soul mate.
You, Derek and Sean have suffered a horrible loss.
Ian was a good man, clever and funny and very kind, who was loved, admired and sadly will be missed by many.
I was very blessed to have had you both be such a big part of my life and that of my children. I’ve always held you close in my heart.
My heart aches for the pain and loss you are all feeling.
I wish you all healing and peace.
With much love and respect
Sincerely
Brenda (Sandy) Ellis
Amrita Singh
Our Deepest and Sincerest condolences to the Sandy family. We trust that fond memories will stay in your hearts and allow for healing.
Amrita & Rohit
RUTH WESTBROOK
Sorry to hear about your loss of a husband and father. My prayers go out to the family.
Liz Hodgins
Donna and Family
I’m so sorry to hear of this sudden passing of Ian, You are in my thoughts And prayers at this difficult time. 🙏❤️
Larry Tibbitts
I was shocked and really saddened to hear about Sandy’s passing. He will be missed by all those who were lucky enough to have known him. The vintage motorcycle community has lost a wealth of knowledge and passion for our hobby. He was a mentor and friend to everyone in the vintage bike community , and , i’m sure , to everyone else as well.
Sincere condolences to all the family for your tragic loss….
Nancy Vandergulik
Donna and Family
I’m so sorry to hear of this sudden passing of Ian, You are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time❤️
Lorraine Golesworthy
My deepest sympathy to Donna, Sean, Derek & families. Such an awful shock for you & us in Oz. Stay strong for each other & let the wonderful memories you have of Ian help you through this very sad time. Ian will be sadly missed & fondly remembered by all his Aussie family. Ian would always keep us in Oz up to date with the family & he was always sharing interesting stories & thoughts, I will very much miss that contact with Ian ❤️RIP
Ellen N James
My sincerest condolences to you Donna and your family.
Graham Sandy
Hearing the news of Ian’s passing shocked and saddened us all. Ian’s extended family in Perth, Australia extends our deepest condolences to Donna and the family.
Bill Coulson
I was shocked to hear of Ian’s passing. Always learned something interesting talking motorcycles with him. Thinking of you Donna, and all your family at this time.
Marlene Dunlap
I am so sorry to hear of your husband Ian. My thoughts and prayers are with you Donna and your family
Gordon, Patricia, Christine and John Miles
Patricia and I send our condolences and sympathy to you Donna and your family. You and your family’s sudden loss of a kind and generous soul mate/ father and a truly good man has us praying for your family to find the strength that Ian would want you to have in the face of his passing. I worked with Ian at Shell Oakville and we enjoyed each others company. We visited each other and I went fishing with Ian on several occasions. I so much appreciated the kindness that was extended when you put me up for several days in your Saint Albert home while we were in the process of moving from Ontario to Alberta. My children, Christine and John, also have fond memories of Ian and are saddened by your loss.
Andrew Gough
On Behalf of the Ausable Canadian Vintage Motorcycle Group, we are deeply saddened by the loss of Ian. He is a very active member of our group, and will be missed greatly. Our deepest condolences to Ian’s Family in this time.
Bruce and Cathy Cornish
Dear Donna and family,
Bruce and I are so shocked to hear of Ian’s passing. It is so very sad, please know
that you are in our thoughts in this difficult time. Thinking of you all.
Sharon Moore
Dear Donna, Sean and Derek and your families.
We are very saddened to hear of Ian’s passing. We are so sorry for your loss. You are in our hearts, our thoughts and our prayers as you walk this difficult path. Sending love and caring thought.
Sharon and Wayne (Moore )
Eileen and Tony Scamardo
We are so shocked and saddened by Ian’s passing. He was a wonderful person, always fun to be around. Can’t help but love a man who likes to cook! He will be greatly missed by all.
Darlene Whealy
I am so sorry to hear of Ian’s sudden passing . Sending hugs to you and the boy’s.
Stephen & Cynthia Butt
So shocked and saddened to hear of Ian’s passing. He was such a kind and gentle person, always ready to help us with our vintage bikes. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time
Allan Tucker
Rachel and I send our deepest condolences to you Donna and all the family members. Its been a complete shock for us to hear of Ian’s sudden passing. All those great summers we had together in Calgary come flooding back to mind. I always enjoyed our visits and talking of motorcycles and quilt work and seeing the latest goings on in the garage and your basement workshop. Ride on into the sunset my friend, with wisps of blue smoke behind you.
Martin Krause
Very hard to realize that another friend of the worldwide Suzuki GT community is gone. In the name of the German waterbuffalo club and me we wish Donna and the whole family the deepest condolences and strenght in this hard moments.
Jim Campbell
My deepest sympathies to Donna and the boys. He will be missed. I still cherish the days we all had together in Holland with my “almost” brother.
Herve and Annie Blezy
Annie and I are shocked to hear the sad news. Our sincere condolences to Donna, Sean, Derek and family. We mentioned your name Donna and Ian only three days ago. We said we will surprise the both of you when we visit our son Michael in Toronto. I am grateful for having spoken to the both of you at Christmas. I always appreciated his Christmas cards with all the family details. He is so proud of you Sean, Derek. I worked and carpooled with your Dad for many years back in 1984 until 1988. Donna and Annie visited often during those days. I recall one of your sons stayed with Neil at 18 Ash Crescent for the summer months over 15 years ago. We will always remember his laugh.
Love and tight hugs, Annie Herve, Michael and Neil Blezy
Glenn Bucholtz
I worked many years with Ian in Shell Chemicals in Canada. He had a great sense of humour and was a lot of fun to work with. My deepest condolences to the family
Rick MacPherson
I am so sorry to hear the passing of Ian! To Donna and the immediate family, you are in my thoughts and prayers
Howard Smith
I was shocked to hear of Ian’s premature passing. He was far too young to leave us. Always a stalwart of the vintage motorcycle community, Ian will be sorely missed by all of us who knew him, especially the Suzuki affectionados to whom he gave so freely of his knowledge. My condolences to all the family.
Randy Erickson
Shocked and saddened to hear of Ian’s sudden passing. Deepest sympathy to Donna and family. A true gentleman in the vintage motorcycling community, Ian will be sorely missed.
Bob and Marie Sockett.
Donna we were saddened to hear of Ian’s passing.Our prayers are with you at this time.
Darcy Pittman
Donna. So very sorry to hear of this. Ian was great person, friend, and motorcycle enthusiast. We were sorry to see him leave the RMS and of you both leaving Calgary. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Sandra Hunter
Thinking of you at this difficult time. Deepest condolences to you and your family
Clay Robinson
I was very shocked and saddened to hear of Ian’s sudden passing. I was lucky enough to know him through his love of motorcycles. My most sincere condolences to the whole family.
Frank Bailey
I am so saddened to hear this shocking news. My heart goes out to you Donna and all family members at this time of grief.
Fred Sauter
Deeply saddened and shocked at Ian’s passing. My sincere condolences to Donna and his family. His enthusiasm for life and his passion for motorcycles will always be remembered by myself and the motorcycle community. Will cherish my “Loyal Order of Buffalo’s ” patch you sent me for my contribution to your website.
Edo ten Klooster
Dear Donna and family, I wish you all the strength to cope with the loss of Ian. He was a great guy, I still recall with pleasure how he gave me a great tour into the Rockies from Calgary, many years ago when we were business colleagues. He brought joy and value where he came and people enjoyed working with him. He will be missed and he will live on with his strong spirit in the memories of his friends and family.
Jim Briggs
The loss of Ian will be felt by so many. He has been an integral, engaged member of the motorcycle community, generous with his time & knowledge. Ian will continue to ride on in our hearts. I offer condolences to his family & those closest to him.
Paul Prince
Ian will be missed. He was well loved and respected by his friends in the CVMG.
wade youngman
I was saddened to hear the new s of my friend and fellow ” Buffalo ” rider’s passing. He will be missed by all those who were privileged enough to have met him. The vintage motorcycle community has lost a wealth of knowledge and passion for our hobby. Thanks for being a friend. Hugs to Donna.
Ed Roath
My heartfelt condolences to Donna and all the family. Ian will be sadly missed by everyone. Ride in peace Ian…
Chip Miller
Hard to describe how deeply saddened I am by Ian’s passing. He was so generous with his knowledge and intelligence. The Suzuki aficionados across the world have lost one of their finest. My you rest in peace, Ian, knowing that you will live on in the hearts and minds of many people. My deepest condolences to all Ian’s loved ones.
Ray & Sue Heffernan
My Deepest Sympathy Donna & Family, I’m shocked and sadden to hear this new of Ian, I just cut his hair on Thursday we had a nice chat he was very knowledgeable about any subject we would discuss . Thoughts & Prayers are with you all at this very difficult time.
Sue Heffernan
Susan Moore
Donna: I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My heart breaks for you! Know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sending a big hug.
Agathe Fawcett
My most sincere condolences to the whole family.
michelle dobson
He was my cousin & was privileged to call him that. We shared family history & motorbikes in common. I used to enjoy watching the restoration he did to his bikes, but i won’t see any more. He will be sadly missed, hugs to his family you are in my thoughts.
Bob and Nancy Rushton
Dear Donna and family,
We were very shocked and saddened to hear of Ian’s sudden passing. He was a good neighbour. May the love you shared and the fond memories of your life together sustain you throughout this very difficult time.
Sincerely,
Bob and Nancy
Colleen Bezaire
We are beyond shocked to hear your Ian passed away. He was too young. He loved working on motorcycles but not more than his family. Rest In Peace of friend
Phil Short
I’d never has the pleasure of meeting Ian in person, but his motorcycle knowledge and he resources he made available to his biking friends and community were much appreciated and valued. He was clearly a very helpful and giving person with a generous spirit. Very sad that he has passed, and my condolences to his widow and family.
Sue Moores
I was deeply sadden to learn of Ian’s passing. I considered Ian a dear friend and I will miss him a lot. All day today I keep remembering his jolly laugh and big smile during my last visit to his and Donna’s lovely home. Rest In Peace my friend. Donna, Sean and Derek my thoughts are with you.
Gord Lorna and the Whealy gamily
Lorna and I are saddened by the loss of a wonderfully gentle man. His knowledge and passion for particular subjects was always interesting in his Texts and conversations . He had a great ability to cut through the BS and get to the point. Our hearts go out to Donna the boys and their families. Thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time.
Ian Bassil
My deepest condolences to Donna and family members. I am saddened to hear of Ian’s departure. I learned of him through OJB and was privileged to have meet him with my partner. I was very gracious for his insight and the few bits that he helped me with. The community has lost a great individual.