“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
It was quite the shock hearing about Ron’s passing. I sang with Ron in the Arion Male Voice Choir and then the Victoria Arion Male Choir. It was my pleasure to have known him and sung with him. He was a steady influence on the choir and served on the Board. He will be sorely missed. On behalf of all the members of the Victoria Arion Male Choir our deepest condolences to Ollie and the family.
Carol Bourke
Deeply saddened to hear of Ron’s passing. As well as my partner working in Security at Butchart Gardens for 10 years, he was a very dear, caring and supportive friend. My sincere condolences to his wife, Ollie, and their family and many friends. He will be greatly missed.
Many condolences to Olga & Family. Ron had a wonderful career in Maritime Air having crewed in all operational aircraft; Tracker, Argus, Aurora and Seaking. His expertise and good nature made him a very valuable crew member in MAG. He will be remembered well as a real stalwart AESOP and contributor to his community and country in so many ways. RIP
Colonel Stan Brygadyr(ret’d)
My sincere Empathy to you and your family Ollie.
Take Care
Very saddened by this dreadful news. Ron was one of my favourite people ever. Great memories. Especially our trip with 407 Sqn to Australia for Tasmanex ’75. I’m honoured to have known him. Sincere condolences to his family and friends. One of the best RIP
Ron always had a smile on his face and I felt his joy was infectious at the VAMC choir. He was kind and friendly, and he loved music. It was my honour to have known him, and he will be missed. Rest in peace.