Alan (Dick) passed away peacefully with family by his side on March 31, 2011 at the age of 86 years. Alan was much beloved as a husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years Norma, his children Donna (George), Susan (Tony), Ed (Wendy), Ellen (David), his sister Beth (Allan), his five grandchildren and many friends. Born in Wolseley, Saskatchewan, Alan and Norma raised their family in Regina and Calgary, before retiring to the Shuswap in 1984. Alan had a happy childhood growing up in the wide expanse of the Saskatchewan prairies with his parents Isabelle and Edward Chesney, his sisters Beth and Peggy, and his older brother Lorne, who was sadly killed in Italy in World War Two. Alan served in the Royal Canadian Air Force, a chapter of his life that made a great impression on him and through which he made lifelong friends. Upon his return from service, he attended the University of Manitoba where he graduated with a degree in Geology. His career in the oil industry took him from sitting on rigs in the North, to working as President of Canadian Stratigraphic Services in Calgary where he performed contract services for the North Africa government, to working with British Petroleum. His colleagues knew Alan for his hard work, his intelligence and his honesty. His family and friends knew him for these qualities and many more. Alan was a man of gentle spirit and steadfast integrity, interspersed with a sense of humour and quiet mischief that made for many friends, and much laughter. His gentle pranks and wry wit endeared him to family and friends. And while he saw the humour in everything, his humour was never at another’s expense ... except, perhaps, his own. Alan was the most loving and caring of husbands, fathers and grandfathers. His kindness and character shaped and supported those blessed to be his family. He was satisfied with simple joys – of family, of enjoying the outdoors through his years of hiking, camping, curling, skiing, and golfing, of quiet, loving companionship with his wife Norma. He will be sadly missed and lives forever in the hearts of those who love him. Special thanks are expressed by family to the staff at the Colonel Belcher in Calgary for their loving care. A service commemorating his life will be held at St. David’s United Church (3303 Capitol Hill Crescent NW, Calgary, Alberta) on Wednesday, April 6, 2011 at 2:00 pm. Reception to follow in the Church Hall. Photos, memories and condolences may be shared with Alan’s family through www.evanjstrong.com. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer’s Society (201, 222 – 58 Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta T2H 2S3, Tel: (403) 290-0110, www.alzheimercalgary.com) are welcome. Arrangements in care of EVAN J. STRONG FUNERAL SERVICES. (403) 265-1199.
Calgary Family Owned
www.evanjstrong.com