Martin David Basso

Husband, Father, Son, Brother

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Martin David Basso, peacefully at his home in Vancouver.  Marty was born in Prince Rupert on March 22, 1964.  He attended Annunciation School, later graduated from Prince Rupert Senior Secondary School in 1982, and UBC in 1986.

He was an exceptional basketball player and starred for the 1980-82 Rainmakers, played at UBC, and made his mark in the Richmond Men’s league.   He was a member of Apple Fitness that won six consecutive Men’s Open Provincial Championships in the 1990’s.

Marty was a top notch machinist, learning the trade from his father, Johnny, in the family business in Prince Rupert.  Marty worked for Canadian Fishing home plant in Vancouver, and enjoyed traveling up the coast and working closely with the salmon and herring fisherman during the 1990’s. He returned to UBC to earn his teaching qualifications and for the past 10 years, Marty was a passionate instructor at Vancouver Technical High School. He re-vitalized the metal shop program and introduced a popular jewelry making course.   He was a master metal worker and also accomplished in crafting wood.   He taught at Van Tech until December 2008.

Marty was an avid outdoorsman, who loved to camp with his family.  His love of photography took him to many places around the world but his annual trek to Haida Gwaii, took him to his favourite place.   Marty had a special bond with the amazing nature of Haida Gwaii and appreciated the great beauty of Haida art and jewelry.

Marty was a very generous person and always helped those in need.   He was an active volunteer with the St. Vincent de Paul Society.

Marty will be sadly missed by his loving and devoted wife, Helen, son David Christian and his parents Johnny and Evelyn of Prince Rupert.  He is also survived by brother Robert (Melanie) and Daniel,  Helen’s mother, Sofia, Auntie Stella, sister in law Maria, , nephews Jaylon, Quinn and Matthew, and of course his dog, Presley.

The Basso Family would like to express our deep heart felt thanks to the relatives and friends who provided Marty comfort in his final days.   A special thanks goes to Fathers Brioux, Horgan and Hawkswell, and all the nurses, doctors, Eucharistic ministers and the care givers, who gave Marty comfort and care during his final days.   Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church at 2881 Main Street (at 13th Ave.) in Vancouver, on Friday May 29th at 10am.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the name of Martin Basso to the David Basso Trust Fund.