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Community says farewell to Bud Abbott

Cranbrook said farewell to one of its most prominent, beloved citizens Saturday.
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Cranbrook said farewell to one of its most prominent, beloved citizens Saturday.

A memorial service of Philip ‘Bud’ Abbott was held Feb. 2 at the Heritage Inn, to a standing-room-only crowd.

Bud passed away Jan. 30, after almost 60 years of community involvement in Cranbrook.

Family, friends and dignitaries gathered to share stories and say goodbye to a remarkable individual.

Brett Walters of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 24 Cranbrook, served as Master of Ceremonies.

Member of Parliament Wayne Stetski, former MLA Bill Bennett spoke of the respect they had for Bud and the influence he had in his community. Stetski said he would be using his one minute parlimentary statement to speak about Bud in the House of Commons on Tuesday, Feb. 5.

Theatrical colleagues and longtime friends Miggs Sawchuk and Jim Cameron shared memories, as did Sandy Zeznik and Joel Vinge, the latter who took to podium with other members of Bud’s Frenz, the singing group with which Bud performed for years at Joseph Creek, the Green Home and other venues.

Two of Bud’s grandchildren also spoke about their grandfather’s life.

Bud Abbott and others launched Cranbrook Community Theatre more than a half a century ago, and saved what is now the Studio Stage Door theatre, performance space and cultural centre from demolition in the 1970s.

See more about Bud Abbott here:

https://www.cranbrooktownsman.com/news/bud-abbott-1921-2019/

Photos by Brian Clarkson

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