Ted was born in Berlin, Germany on July 2, 1942. Despite the difficult times, Ted had many fond memories of his life in Germany. The family moved to Canada in 1954, settling in London, Ontario. There were many youthful tales of fun and mischief - Tony and Walt became his cherished lifetime friends, unaffected by time or distance.
Following highschool, Ted joined the Canadian National Railway (CNR) in 1961. There he met Bonnie, his wife of 44 years and devoted friend. Ted enjoyed his work as Freight Sales Marketing Officer in Hamilton working closely with the steel industry. With the arrival of son Randall, and daughter Rochelle, the family moved to a rural acreage north of Hamilton and were joined by their youngest son, Jeremy. Intrigued by the function of local government, Ted ran for Puslinch Township Council, serving three successful terms with dedication and energy.
Despite his busy schedule, Ted enjoyed the efforts of rural life; ploughing the 600’ drive with his Ferguson tractor, felling hardwood to heat the house, hosting summer gatherings, brewing maple syrup, beekeeping, and caring for an ever-changing menagerie of farm critters.
In 1990, Ted took early retirement from the CNR to pursue new opportunities. For one year, he served as the United Way fundraiser head for the industrial sector in Hamilton, surpassing targets despite the recession of the time. With Randy and Rochelle pursuing their careers, Ted, Bonnie and Jeremy packed their belongings into a classic Eaton’s delivery truck and headed west to the Shuswap.
Returning to municipal politics in 1999, Ted represented Area ‘C’ for 13 years, first as Director and then as Chair of the Columbia Shuswap Regional District. He served on countless boards with honesty, commitment and integrity, and was a dedicated supporter of many committees and volunteer groups. Due to Ted’s foresight, diligence and hard work, Area ‘C’ implemented its Park Plan in 2004, eventually expanding to include the entire CSRD. Ted was instrumental in leading the establishment and funding of the Shuswap Lakes Integrated Planning Process (SLIPP), which received the Premier’s Award for promoting innovation and excellence.
In his personal time, Ted spent many hours fishing, hiking, motorcycling and exploring the outdoors. He enjoyed listening to Andrea Bocelli, feeding the wild birds (and occasional uninvited bear), and devouring pound cake, bean salad, tea, and more pound cake. He was a proud member of the Canadian Blood Services ‘100 Club’ with 183 donations to his name.
Ted was supported throughout his life by a loving family. He returned this love, and was extremely proud of his three children and adoring of his two grandchildren. Surrounded by his family, he passed away on June 13, 2012 after a brief, but aggressive illness. Ted leaves behind Bonnie, children Randy, Rochelle (Nicolas) and Jeremy, grandchildren Myles and Lily, stepmother Maria, stepfather Horst, siblings Barbara (Wolfgang), Martin (Shirley), Michael, Anita (Marzio) and many nieces, nephews and valued friends and acquaintances. He was predeceased by his parents Giovanni and Helga, and brother Mario.
Contributions (in his name) can be directed to the Shuswap Community Foundation at shuswapfoundation.ca or by mail to Box 624, 450 Lakeshore Drive NE, Salmon Arm, BC. V1E 4N7.
The family of Ted Bacigalupo is very grateful for the warmth and support shown by many members of the community over the last few weeks. To recognize Ted’s contributions to the region as Area ‘C’ Director and as a community volunteer, we would like to invite you to an informal gathering in his honour. The event will be held on Sunday July 22, between noon and 4:00 p.m., at the Blind Bay Hall, 2510 Blind Bay Road (corner of Marine Drive) in the community of Blind Bay.
All are welcome to join as we share stories and anecdotes and enjoy a slice of Ted’s favourite cake with a cup of tea or coffee.
Arrangements entrusted to FISCHER’S FUNERAL SERVICES & CREMATORIUM LTD., Salmon Arm (250) 833-1129. EMAIL condolences and share memories at www.fischersfuneralservices.com.