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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
KELLETT, Carl Godfrey (Bud) - Affectionately known as "Bud." A lifelong Vancouverite, Bud passed away with dignity and on his own terms in Richmond, on Family Day, February 17th, a few days after his 104th birthday. Bud was a rising star and natural leader, where he earned the highest marks in Grade 4. Music was his comfort, his joy and constant presence throughout his life, beginning at an early age. Bud fondly remembered his music teacher, Mr. Sara, at age seven. By his teens, he had become proficient at the clarinet, saxophone, and percussion. Music followed Bud into the Royal Canadian Navy, where he played with the Canadian Naden Navy Band, who were deployed to the UK during WWII. He returned home to his roots in 1945. Bud quickly established himself in the music community, performing with a variety of ensembles throughout BC. As the conductor of the Kerrisdale Kiwanis Boys and Girls Band, he passed on knowledge gained from his years of experience to a new generation of musicians. Performing at Expo '67 in Montreal was one of the many successful concerts for the band. In addition, Bud enjoyed teaching private music lessons to children. He did so from his home in his later years, encouraging all to explore their passions and be proud of their accomplishments and discipline. Bud completed 37 years of distinguished service to his community, serving in the Vancouver Fire Department, finishing his career in 1979 as the Chief Training Officer at "Headquarters." The next five years were spent at the Justice institute of BC, where he started the first Fire Training Academy. Bud helped shape our city's legacy in a way that will never be repeated. Once retired, Bud and Marg were regular visitors to Maui, finding some warmth in the middle of winter, and they also managed a few trips to the UK and other places in Europe. After moving to Richmond in 2017, Bud's trips were a little closer to home. He enjoyed visiting with family and friends in local restaurants, always sharing a cup of black coffee. He will be remembered by many service staff from his favourite restaurants in Richmond and Vancouver, particularly at Cardero's and Seasons in the Park. He finally hung up his car keys at the age of 99, a year after his first and only driving test. One of Bud's greatest joys was his 100th birthday (during Covid), when firehalls across the Lower Mainland honoured Bud with a ceremonial "Drive-by." He was concerned that he created traffic congestion at rush hour as he always thought of safety and his community first. Bud was a passionate listener. He rarely gave advice unless asked, always putting others first and, giving all of himself every day of his life. He is well remembered by his impeccable medical and care teams who assisted him with beautiful new knees and hips that allowed him to keep swimming right into his 90s. Ever the consummate gentleman, Bud reminded us that in showing respect and appreciation, we can all be the best versions of ourselves. He will be sorely missed, forever remembered, and we are all the better for having had him in our lives. He was predeceased by the love of his life, Margaret (née Kinley), who passed in 2009 after 66 years of marriage. He is survived by his daughter, Trisha; son, Lorne; former daughter-in-law, Huguette; grandchildren, Lisa (Bob) and Evan (Pamela); and great-grandchildren, Georgia and Winston. He also will be fondly remembered by his cousins, Leslie (Jim) and Lisa (Scott); as well as Jennifer Caparas, who cared for Margaret with such kindness and devotion. He considered Jennifer and her family a part of his own, holding a special place in Buds heart. He will also be missed by countless brothers and sisters across our nation, partners and friends from all walks of life, and also cats, Tanker and Phoebe, that gave him comfort in his last years. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Alzheimer Society (alzheimer.ca/bc/en), The Burn Unit (burnfund.org) or Esquimalt MFRC (support.esquimaltmfrc.com/donate.php). A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Walkey & Company Funeral Directors (604) 738-0006 (The Globe and Mail 22 Mar 2025)
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