Douglas Bassett

BASSETT -Douglas Austin. It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Douglas Austin Bassett, age 62, most recently of Gibson's Landing, British Columbia, and formerly of Montreal. Doug was predeceased by his parents, Herb and Irene Bassett and will be mourned by his wife, Carole; his children, Jacques (Susan) and Bobbi (Dave); his brother, Ted (Mona); their children, Anita and Paul; his cherished mother-in-law, Marion Keller; his brother-inlaw, Carmen Keller (Gail); and many more family, friends, colleagues and sailing buddies. Diagnosed with cancer two years ago, and expected to live only a few months more, Doug not only attended his retirement party at CSA a year later, but also participated in his " Wake " at Beaconsfield Yacht Club (for which he'd set aside funds the year before). No one had a better time at either party. Born in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, Doug received his Masters Degree in Engineering from the University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon. He spent most of his early career at SED Systems Ltd. and moved on to join the Canadian Space Agency virtually at it's inception. Doug was one of the handful of principals who guided Canada's Space Station efforts over the years. He was the key leader in the effort to plan for the actual operational use of the Canadarm II. His contribution included not only developing procedures, but also the training of those on the ground who assist the astronauts on the Station, and coordination with Canada's International Partners on the general operations of the Station. Later Doug led the planning and negotiation for building the Special Purpose Dextrous Manipulator, another major element of Canada's Station program. Everyone who knew Doug knew how much he loved sailing, but what he was proudest of, was the special bonds he forged with his children, Jacques and Bobbi Pelletier. Both of us will remain forever grateful for their love and devotion during these most difficult last two years in which Doug (true to form) did "not go gently into that good night " but fought "against the dying of the light. " For those who wish to: a donation in Doug's name to The Sunshine Coast Hospice Society, Box 2698, Sechelt, B.C. V0N 3A0 would be greatly appreciated. Their assistance to Doug and his family was invaluable. A Funeral Service will be held April 6 at 2:00 p.m. at St. John's United Church, 5085 Davis Bay Road, Sechelt, BC.