Sandra Bassett

Sandra Kathrin Bassett

Sandra died, at peace following a short illness and surrounded by her family, on December 10. She was born in rural Wales and spoke only Welsh until she was eight years old. She went on to complete a double honours degree in English and Education and taught English, specializing in children’s literature, in Manchester, England and in Carleton University and Algonquin College. In her last ten years at Algonquin she was the Director of International Education, overseeing Algonquin’s education projects in Africa, Asia and Latin America and recruiting international students for the College. During her time at Algonquin and after her retirement she accompanied her husband on postings to Harare, Zimbabwe and Washington, D.C. Never one to be idle, she found meaningful and rewarding work, principally with the Association of Canadian Community Colleges.

 She was a voracious reader, five or six books a week, loved music, art and developed a surprising love of Formula 1 racing later in life. She enjoyed discussing just about anything, especially politics, which she was passionate about.

She leaves behind her husband of 61 years and best friend of 70 years, Charles, her three children, Caroline, Christopher and Matthew and her eight grandchildren, Alexa, Jason, Justine, Joshua, Adam,Liam, Rhys and Miles. A huge thank you to all the staff at the Queensway Carleton Hospital and the Palliative Care Unit for the outstanding care they gave Sandra to the end. There will be a private family funeral; a celebration of her wonderful life will follow later.

 In lieu of flowers, donations to the Ottawa Food Bank would be appreciated at https://www.ottawafoodbank.ca/donate/.