“Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth
And dance the skies on laughter-silvered wings;”
Ron passed away on February 6, 2026, after a short illness at the Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria, BC. He was born July 10, 1943, in St. Boniface, Manitoba son of the late James Ronald and Doris Jessie (Beasant) Mastin.
He served for 34 years in the RCAF/CAF and Air Reserve, first as a Radio Operator and then re-mustering to become an Airborne Electronic Sensor Operator (081 Observer / AESOp) and flew on many different aircraft types, serving across the country, on both coasts and travelling to far corners of this world. He retired as Master Warrant Officer (MWO) from 443 (MH) Squadron Esquimalt in 1999. He went on to spend 12 years as a Commissionaire, with most of that time at Butchart Gardens. He was an active and valued member in his community of West Oaks and a Tenor in the Victoria Arion Male Choir. Ron loved to read, sing, and play guitar and piano, and knew the joy that music brings. He was active and enjoyed his daily walks as well as participating in the Terry Fox Run and the Victoria Times Colonist 10K, most recently in April 2025. He was always open to trying something new, whether it was to build our home in Greenwood, NS, acquire a private pilots license, Ski and Windsurfing.
He was predeceased by his older brother Jim and twin sister Dinah; he will be deeply missed by his wife of 59 years, Ollie (Olga), his son Bradley (Sharla) of Calgary, AB, his daughter Leann (Gary) of St. Francois Xavier, MB., his grandchildren Allie, Cassie, Thomas and Hannah. Along with many members of his extended family in Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Ontario, and friends far and wide in Victoria and across the country.
There will be a private family service at a later date.
As Ron used to say “Be grateful for each day and hug your loved ones frequently”.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
This obituary is the property of the “Mastin” family and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.
26 Responses
My condolences to family and friends. He will be missed.
Dear Ollie & family – It is with great sadness I am writing this. Ron was such a lovely neighbour and friend. I so much enjoyed our recent afternoon and dinner together and was looking forward to more. Dear Ollie my arms are wrapped around you. I will get in touch with you when I get home. Love Diane❤️❤️❤️❤️
I would like to offer my deepest condolences to Ron’s family and friends. Singing with Ron over the last six years with the Victoria Arion Male Choir was incredible. . I am deeply saddened by Ron’s passing. We would talk about his time in the Canadian Forces as my dad did years ago. He was gentle, caring man and had a great sense of humor. He spent many happy years singing with the Arion Choir and VAMC. Ron, will be greatly missed by all the guys who have been fortunate to get to know him. I’m sure he is singing with the angels. Rest in Peace Ron.
Ollie,Brad and Leann,
IIt is with heavy heart that I just heard of Ron’s passing. He was a dear and treasured friend. In our younger years Dave and I had many a wonderful time with Ron and Ollie that I w8ll always hold dear. My heart goes out to all of you. Barb
To Ollie and family, my deepest condolences to you.I first met Ron when I was with VS 880 Sqn in Shearwater and recently in Victoria when I moved there. I always enjoyed his sense of humour and spirit and he will be missed by all who were fortunate to know him. God speed Ron as you join “The Delta”, Aye, Chuck O’Neill.
RIP Ron
Our heart is breaking for your loss, dear Olga, Bradley & LeAnn. Treasure the momories of a life well lived. Love & prayers, Marianne & Jamie Langford.
My sincere condolences to Mrs. Mastin, Brad, Leann and their families. So much love sent to you all from Nova Scotia
My sincere condolences to you Ollie, Brad and Leann on the passing of your sweet husband and dad. Hugs to you all. Wishing you all peace and light.
Rest Easy my dear friend and Brother !
Many fond memories !