Less than a month after the passing of his beloved wife, Marianne, Alex (Al) W. Bodnar joined her in death, as a result of complications from a fall. He was 87.

Al was raised and educated in Sudbury where he met and married Marianne. After school Al went to work for Bell Canada. Every free moment and dollar, with Marianne’s accord, was spent on flying lessons at Sudbury Aviation on pontoon Cessnas. Marianne and Al moved to British Columbia where Al worked for BC Tel, but once again Al’s passion was flying so that all free time and money was spent on flying lessons. Eventually Al left BC Tel and devoted his work to flying bush planes in Prince George, Prince Rupert, Terrace and other locations. After years of paying his dues, Al got on with Canadian Pacific Airlines (remember them?) In a short time, Al’s life’s dream came true and he was promoted to Captain. Years of hard work and perseverance had paid off. He was Captain Bodnar. Al flew for CPA until it went out of business and then he joined the BC government flying politicians and dignitaries in the government Lear Jet out of the Sidney airport.

Al and Marianne were proud of what they had achieved including their beautiful home in Dean Park in Saanich with the magnificent view of the Salish Sea, Sidney Spit and Mount Baker. Although Al was an excellent golfer, his passion was flying. Al is survived by his brother Victor, his sister, Victoria of Sudbury, Ontario, brothers in law Don, John and Paul Stos and his sister-in-law Christina Goddard as well as numerous loving nieces and nephews. Bon voyage and smooth flying Captain Bodnar.

Condolences may be offered to the family below.

McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com

  • Susan Stos

    He was a fine man and the best uncle. I miss them both tremendously.

  • Chris Duncan

    I worked with al at the BC GOVERNMENT AIR SERVICES for 12 years. We did a survival course when I was flying the DHC-3 for the BC government in 1979/80, Al was our safety officer. Great guy, I have fond memories of his stories of near death occasions during this course.
    I remember a party at Al and Marianne’s.
    Miss them both.
    Chris Duncan

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