“Everything comes to he who waits”
Sadly, we announce the passing of an incredible man who lived a remarkable long life. Albert passed away peacefully at Broadmead Lodge for Veterans in Victoria, BC
Albert was born in London, England to a dockworker, James Middleton and Florence Middleton (nee Probert). On March 29, 1929, at the age of 14, Albert immigrated to Canada as part of the National Children’s Orphanage travelling on the “Cedric”, landing in Halifax, Nova Scotia. He worked as a child labourer for three years on farms to repay his passage from England. This led to a long, prosperous, adventurous life through hard work, intestinal fortitude and determination.
Albert served in WWII September 21, 1943 – July 12, 1946 with honourable discharge from the Royal Canadian Air Force (war Service Badge #391915) at 31 years of age. Returning on the “Aquitania” proceeding to Lachine. In 1952, with the Veteran’s Land Act, he purchased a 65-acre farm in Brantford, ON. While farming pigs and beef cattle and also working in many factories, he studiously attended night school and retired from Massey Ferguson in 1980.
In his retirement years he returned to London, England for 20 years, enjoying travelling with Constance Middleton (deceased 1996).
At the tender age of 90, Albert returned to Canada to Victoria, BC in the James Bay neighborhood. At age 101 years, he moved into Broadmead Veterans Lodge, where he was loved by staff and residents. His singing and kisses for the nurses will be greatly missed with the infamous “Shweetheart”.
Special thank you to all the staff at the Lodge for their care and compassion with Dad throughout his final years. Also, a special thank you to Yvann for the many Facetimes and humorous stories shared.
Missed by special friends Bob and Loureen Tuomi, Bernice and Pat and Graham Masters (England). Thank you for welcoming Albert into your family; for the many outings, coffee and more importantly, the many happy hours shared.
Predeceased by Jacqueline Middleton (2001); his son, Blair Middleton (2018); Patricia Middleton (2024) and special friend, Bernice. Survived by his son, Wayne Middleton; daughter, Darlene Van Raay (Don); granddaughters, Charlene Middleton (Jeff), Denise Lockey (Gary), Tracy Bancroft (Dave), Rhea Van Raay and grandsons, Colin and Denver Van Raay; great-grandchildren, Andrew Lockey, Katie (fiancé, Lucas), Jason Ellenburger (Ashley), Eric Ellenburger, Nicholas Ellenburger; great-great-granchildren Logan and Falon Ellenburger.
Albert narrowly missed his landmark of 110 years. At the time of his passing, he proudly held the titles of: Oldest Canadian man, oldest Canadian WWII Vet, oldest British Home Child and oldest surviving British Home Child who served in WWII.
As per his wishes, cremation has taken place with a Celebration of Life to be held on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at 2:00 pm in the Oak Room at Broadmead Lodge for Veterans for friends and family.
Donations gratefully accepted by Broadmead Lodge for Veterans
https://www.broadmeadcare.com/care-homes/veterans-memorial-lodge-saanich/
and/or Veterans Affairs Canada.
“Don’t take any wooden nickels”
“See you later alligator”
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Dave Bates
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Robert Warren I had the great privilege of spending time with Albert as a volunteer at the Veteran’s Memorial Lodge. He was always in good spirits and had a kind word for everyone around him.
I am grateful for the opportunity to have met this very impressive man and to thank him for his service to Canada and the Commonwealth. His life and longevity serve as an inspiration to many, including me.
My heartfelt condolences to Albert’s family. He will be missed but always remembered with great fondness by those who were lucky enough to know him.
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Connie Dunwoody I’m so sorry for your loss. Albert was a fixture in the halls at Veterans Memorial Lodge, where he lived his final eight years. We’ll miss his singing and conversations and of course the ‘Shweetheart’ heard so regularly. Thanks for sharing your last years with us, Albert. It was a true privilege.
Darlene, our deepest sympathy in the loss of your dad. You were very faithful and attentive to him during his senior years with all of the visits that you made to the west. May his very full life comfort you.