Canada's oldest Knight celebrates 103rd birthday

The Knights of Columbus Father Brian McKee Council 1387 and the parishioners of Christ the King Church helped Tom Bubba celebrate his 103rd birthday last month.

Bubba was born in Caraffa Italy, and emigrated to Canada on 1932 at the age of 21 with $50 in his pocket and a strong work ethic.

In 1940, he married Alma Grassi, settling in the Naughton area, where they raised four children.

Bubba was employed by Inco for 38 years as a mechanical specialist and a member of the Copper Cliff Plant Mechanical Department First Aid Team, winning many competitions over many years.

He was instrumental in building Our Lady of Fatima School, on his property, so his kids could attend a Catholic school.

Bubba was involved with both public and separate boards, being active with the St. Aloysius Parent Teacher Association and the Naughton School Board.

He was a trustee and Councillor and among other jobs being in charge of raising money for building St. Pius X Church.

Bubba was one of the many lobbyists to see Catholic secondary school funding extended to Grade 13.

His service to the community also included volunteer fundraising for the Cancer Society and the Heart and Stroke Foundation, volunteering at the Sudbury Regional Hospital Cancer Treatment Centre, as well as participating in ongoing cancer research for prostate cancer survivors

Joining the Knights in 1951, he eventually became Grand Knight and was a founding member of Bishop Scollard 4th Degree Assembly.

Being very active in the 4th Degree, he was elected their Faithful Navigator, and, in 1976, became the 4th Degree District Marshall for 10 years.

In 1993, Bubba was honoured by the town of Walden for community service.

In 1998, he was the recipient of the Lieutenant Governor's Award from Honourable Hilary M. Weston, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the community.

Bubba is Canada's oldest Knight and possibly the oldest Knight in North America. At 103, Bubba still attends several Knights of Columbus meetings a year and continues to be involved in discussions when debating various issues.