In Loving Memory of

Elmer Bassani

of Edmonton, Alberta

On Friday, April 24, 2020, at the age of 85, Elmer passed away at home with his family by his side after a courageous battle with cancer.

Elmer will be forever in the hearts of his children, Duane (Rita), Cori (Bonnie), Loray (Jason) Walker and Liana (Dennis) Anderson; grandsons, Ryan (Emilly) and Scott (Nicole); and numerous relatives and friends.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Maxine, in 2018; and by his parents, Cafiero and Grace.

Elmer grew up in Naples (Barrhead) area as an only child, but he was never lonely. Among his friends were his many aunts and uncles who were close to his age and lived in the area.

His working career began in Edmonton at Grierson Service. This led to his interest in tow trucks and cars. In 1953 he partnered with Cliff Carbol in operating an Edmonton institution called Cliff’s Towing Service Ltd. By 1956 Elmer had married the love of his life, Maxine, and bought full ownership of Cliff’s Towing. Together they operated this labor intensive, time consuming business until the company was sold in 2008.

Sometimes the lines between work and family can become blurred when you operate 24/7 businesses, but he always made time to be with his family. Elmer tried to be home for dinner, every night, and he took many vacations with his family. In his later years he and Maxine enjoyed travelling and especially loved going to their home in Arizona. Elmer loved his children very much and was a proud grandfather. He was so grateful that some of the kids were able to be involved in his various businesses.

Elmer’s entrepreneurial spirit drove him to become involved in many businesses in and around the Edmonton area. He had interests in various Edmonton hotels and in 1972 he purchased the Athabasca Hotel in Jasper. He tried his hand at many different and varied endeavors too many to list.

He was a man with a kind heart, stubborn determination and strong work ethic. Elmer was devoted to his family and he believed in customer service and made sure to drive that point home with all who worked with him. Never say no to a customer became his mantra.

The family would like to extend our sincere gratitude to his caregivers, Susan Gagarin and Donna Paraton. In addition, we would like to acknowledge the support and friendship of D’Arcy Carroll of the Athabasca Hotel, along with longtime friends, Todd Hikel and Albert Hikel.

A Celebration of Elmer’s Life will be announced at a future date. A Private Graveside Service will be held at Westlawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alberta Cancer Foundation.