George Wayne Baslee

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of George Wayne Baslee, aged 87, on June 29, 2026, at Cowichan District Hospital, with his family by his side. Wayne enjoyed 27 years of retirement after dedicating 33 years of service to Crofton Pulp & Paper. Wayne was also well known though out The Cowichan Valley for his expertise in drywall. Whether it was a small patch or a large project, friends, family, and many others knew they could always count on his skill, care and quality workmanship. Five years into their marriage, Wayne and Jill became the proud parents of their adopted son, Christopher Mark Baslee, on August 3, 1970. Chris instantly became their pride and joy and completed their family. Years later, Wayne gained the daughter he always wanted when Chris married Bev on September 29, 1990. During their 60 years of marriage, Wayne and Jill shared a love of travel, visiting England, Scotland, France, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Barbados, the Dominican Republic, Hawaii, Mexico, Disneyland, Las Vegas, and many beautiful destinations throughout British Columbia. In recent years, some of their happiest times were spent on casino trips to Washington State, often accompanied by Chris and Bev. Wayne's greatest joy was his family. He adored his grandchildren, Emilie and Scott, and was proud to watch them graduate, build their own lives, and celebrate their weddings—Emilie to Graham in the Mayan Riviera, Mexico, in 2013, and Scott to Shelby at Black Rock Resort in Ucluelet in 2025. Wayne was also blessed with two great-granddaughters, Heidi and Aubrey. He never missed a hockey game, dance recital, school concert, softball game, field hockey match, or any special family event. Wayne had a lifelong love of the outdoors and found great joy in fishing, hunting, and camping. Whether fishing in Bamfield, Sansum Narrows, or Pollier Pass, or enjoying more recent prawning and crabbing trips aboard the Stella B with Chris and Bev, some of his happiest moments were spent outdoors with family. Wayne shared his passion for hunting and fishing with his beloved son, Chris, and later his grandson, Scott, passing on not only the skills but also a deep appreciation for nature and the many memories made together in the outdoors. Wayne was predeceased by his parents, Dan and Audrey Baslee, and his brother, Pat Baslee. He is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 60 years, Jill; his cherished son, Chris, and daughter-in-law, Bev; his granddaughter, Emilie (Graham), and their daughters, Heidi and Aubrey; his grandson, Scott (Shelby); his sister, Darliene Lansdowne; his brother, Shelby Baslee; his sister-in-law, Cathy Eastman and Donna Baslee; and his brother-in-law, Brent Hislop. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews. Wayne was loved by all who knew him and will be deeply missed beyond words. Cremation has taken place, and a private family gathering will be held at a later date.