“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
I’m so sad to hear of Ron’s passing. Ron and I served together in many places. He was always cheerful and ready to tackle anything. He will be missed very much but never forgotten. RIP dear friend RIP.
I am so very sorry to hear of Ron’s passing.
I was fortunate enough to be on a 407 Sqn Argus crew with Ron in 1979 when we won the honour of representing Canada in the Fincastle ASW competition. In no small part to Ron’s leadership, we won the international competition that year. Flying with Ron, skiing with Ron and on occasion having a few drinks with Ron are part of my favourite memories of those times. (And the blueberry perogies, Ollie)
His great sense of humour, his professional work ethic and his friendship will be remembered by many. It was an honour and privilege to know Ron and his family.
Sincere condolences,
Ed Miller
I had the distinct pleasure of flying with Ron while we both served on 880 squadron , Shearwater, Nova Scotia in the early 79s. In addition to his recognized skills as an aviation observer specialst, his valued sense of humour and timely wit added to any conversation. A very, very valued team member…. in any life pursuit.
My heartfelt condolences to his Family and Friends.
I was going through my OTU as a brand new ABATS student and Ron was my flying partner. His calm demeanour along with his sage advice helped me immensely. His fatherly attitude towards me is something I have never forgotten. True gem…I count myself fortunate to have know him.
Thanks Ron for all the tight spots you got us out of, with your skills on radar. Hope your future journey is enjoyable and filled with good contacts.
May your happy memories give you peace and comfort during this challenging time. Gone but never forgotten. RIP my dear friend. It was a pleasure serving with you.
I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Ron. I flew with Ron on the Argus in Comox, and we were neighbours in the mobile home park near the base. I offer my deepest condolences to the family. He was a great person.
I had the the pleasure to fly and work at 443 Sqn with Ron!
my sincere condolences to all of you! RIP My friend!
We are so sorry to hear about Ron’s passing. He was a wonderful neighbour and friend. Always a smiling face around West Oaks. Our sincere condolences to Ollie and the family on the loss of a wonderful man.
Shannon and Lorne
The comfort of having a friend may be taken away, but not that of having had one.
RIP, my friend.