Obituary of Arthur Baptie

April 15, 1934 – Calgary, Alberta

April 11, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

 

It is with immense heartbreak that we announce the passing of Arthur “Art” Baptie of Bragg Creek, AB, who transitioned peacefully with his daughter at his side on Thursday, April 11, 2024, just four days short of his 90^th Birthday.

 

Art was born in Calgary on April 15, 1934. Art’s life was deeply intertwined with the traditional Western lifestyle. The family’s connection to Bragg Creek began in 1947 when Art’s father purchased the Last Break Ranch. After meeting Louise and marrying in 1955, they continued their love of horses and country lifestyle and built the family home in 1971, where Art lived until his brief illness.

 

He also had an extraordinary career in the Oil & Gas Industry, specifically the Seismic Industry which spanned decades and took him all over the world. He worked with companies that included: Sun Oil Company in the 1950s, Southwestern Industrial Electronics in the 1960s, President of Geospace Technologies through the 70s, and President of Mark Products through the 80s up until his retirement in 1997 at which time Art was able to pursue his passions, which included scuba diving with his brother Alex, many rounds of golf and days spent fishing.

 

Art’s legacy is woven with threads of courage, kindness, and a willingness to act when it mattered most. He guided people to safety in the MGM fire in Las Vegas. Saved a young boy’s life from drowning in a Palm Springs swimming pool and revived a fellow Guncher fading from heat stroke.

 

Art loved the game of golf and was an established member of a fellowship of golfers dubbed the “Gunchers.” This remarkable assembly of close companions headed by his good friend, Ralph Lundberg, was a highlight of Art’s summers, he always looked forward to the weekly game of competition and lunches.

 

Art was a key figure along with his good friend Bud, in establishing the “Twist Off” golf tournament at the Kokanee Springs Golf Course. This event, which united Doodlebuggers and Drillers, had been a yearly tradition for over 40+ years. Art and his close friend Bruce Reid brought a unique flair to this tournament. They were known for their BBQ skills and for wearing the most outrageous aprons. Their colourful personalities and camaraderie will always be remembered by those who attended the event. 

 

Art held a deep affection for the Kootenay Lake and Kaslo area. Alongside his brothers, Peter and Alex, they spent countless summers fishing and residing on his boat called Lil Smoke. This brotherly trio exchanged numerous fish tales, shared laughter, and created many cherished memories over the years. The annual fishing trips off the coast of Vancouver Island with his dear friend George Bertram and George’s sons also became a cherished tradition.

 

Art is survived by his daughter Suzanne, sisters, Lorraine (Dean) and Judie (Bruce); grandchildren, Elizabeth and Adam; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family Rose, Rachel, and Isabella in Florida.

 

Art was predeceased by his beloved wife “Louise” in 2017, son Scot in 2011, his parents, Alex, (Doris), his mother Marcella, as well as brothers Peter and Alex.

 

I would like to thank Critical Care, Virtual Hospital Team, Dr. Cherry, Dr. Davis, Dr. Castillo, who cared for my dad and made it possible for him to stay at home as long as possible. I would also like to thank the Community Paramedics, who also cared for Dad at my home, and the staff at South Health Campus in his final days.

 

The outpouring of support and condolences serves as a testament to the impact Art had on those who knew him, and your kindness is appreciated and will always be remembered.

 

Art was an extraordinary man, always humming a tune, singing a song, and making up the words, truly an optimist, and every day was the “best ever”.

 

He will be missed by all who know him. I love you Dad, my golf buddy, and my best friend, I know you are now reunited with Mom and Scot, many dear friends and family who previously passed. Until we meet again, I will see you every time I look at the moon!

 

As per Art's wishes, an official ceremony will not be held but a get-together to remember good times with Art will be held in Bragg Creek in June.

 

If friends so desire, memorial tributes (donations) may be made directly to the Terry Fox Foundation, 16A, 6120 – 2nd Street S.E., Calgary, AB T2H 2L8 Telephone: (403) 212-1336, terryfox.org/donate.

 

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Art’s family here.

 

In living memory of Arthur Baptie, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.