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Honouring the lives of beloved family, friends and community members in Alberta, these biographies celebrate the remarkable stories and enduring legacies that continue to shape the history and heart of our province.
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1964 - 2018
John Uptigrove lived at the intersection of imagination and invention, bringing his dream of flight to life with the Mosquito Ultralight helicopter. A loving father and creative engineer, his curiosity and encouragement inspired many. Though he left the world too soon, his legacy of innovation and imagination continues to soar.
Born 1938
Gerald Arthur Bishoff has lived a life characterized by profound integrity, remarkable adaptability and unwavering dedication to family. From his early days on the family farm in Acadia Valley, Alberta, to his retirement years in Lethbridge, he has embraced every stage of life with dedication and quiet resolve. Alongside his wife, Phyllis, he has welcomed six children, 15 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren in the last 65 years. Despite currently facing the challenges of dementia and macular degeneration today, Gerald’s legacy of hard work, kindness and integrity continue to light the way for his family, and his gentle presence remains a steadfast pillar in the lives of all who know and love him.
2016 - 2022
Ben Stelter was a joyful, kind-hearted little boy whose courage and love lit up the lives of all who knew him. Diagnosed with brain cancer at just four years old, Ben faced each challenge with bravery, positivity and selflessness beyond his years. Though his life was heartbreakingly short, his impact was immeasurable, and his spirit lives on through the Ben Stelter Foundation.
1984 - 2007
Joel Vincent Wiebe, a Private in the Canadian Armed Forces, led a vibrant and impactful life, tragically cut short in 2007 at the young age of 22 while on deployment in Afghanistan. Known by his military brothers as the "happiest man in NATO," Joel embodied joy, kindness and unwavering determination. From an early age, his fascination with the military guided his path, leading him to join the 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry at age 20. Joel’s dedication to “choosing happiness” every day, his commitment to family and country and his infectious spirit continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.
1984 - 2023
Libby Wilson was a fiercely funny, endlessly curious and deeply loving soul who left an indelible mark on everyone she touched. From her childhood adventures in Calgary and Cranbrook to her fearless ski runs, creative pursuits and passionate advocacy, Libby lived with intensity and heart.
1872 - 1933
James Wheeler Davidson, known to many as 'Big Jim’ or simply JWD, lived a life brimming with adventure, diplomacy and a profound commitment to international fellowship. Born in Austin, Minnesota, in 1872, Jim's journey took him from the frozen landscapes of Greenland to the bustling streets of Asia, and eventually to the heart of Rotary International. His story is one of exploration, connection and a tireless pursuit of goodwill.
1941 - 2023
Paul "Ike" Walsh was a devoted Canadian veteran, loving grandfather and lifelong learner whose time here was marked by service, resilience and compassion. Known for his warmth, quick wit and encyclopedic knowledge, Ike earned his high school diploma at age 54, a symbol of his unwavering curiosity. He leaves behind a legacy of love and quiet strength that continues to shape those who knew him.
1951 - 2007
Lloyd “Slick” Arthur Young was a bold, kind-hearted man known for his humor, generosity and unmistakable presence. A devoted family man and community persona, he brought joy to those around him through laughter and a reliable helping hand. Though he passed away in 2007, Lloyd’s vibrant spirit continues to live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
1997 - 2022
Tessa Tolley lived a bold, joyful life filled with adventure, independence and deep connections to both people and nature. Known for her big heart, bright smile and mechanical skill, she was fiercely loyal to her friends and family. Though her life was tragically cut short in 2022, her memory continues to shine in the lives of those who knew her and the sunflowers that bloom each summer.
1998 - 2015
Jaydon Sommerfeld was a bright, kind-hearted young man whose life, though tragically short, had an extraordinary impact. He had a gift for making others feel seen — welcoming new students, supporting friends and always lending a hand. Jaydon’s lasting legacy is measured in love, generosity and the many people he inspired.
1914 - 1965
Viola Irene Desmond (née Davis) was a remarkable Canadian businesswoman and civil rights activist whose courageous stand against racial segregation in 1946 left an indelible mark on Canadian history. Her iconic refusal to leave the whites-only section of the Roseland Theatre in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia in 1946, which led to her arrest and conviction, became a pivotal moment in the fight for racial equality in Canada. Though unpardoned in her lifetime, Viola’s legacy spurred on the civil rights movement, contributing to the legal end of segregation in Nova Scotia in 1954. Decades after her passing in New York City in 1965, her story gained national prominence, culminating in a posthumous free pardon, numerous honours and her historic appearance on the Canadian $10 bill.
1951 - 2024
Murray Sinclair was a towering figure in Canadian law and Indigenous advocacy, who dedicated his life to justice, truth and reconciliation. Born in the Selkirk area, Manitoba, in 1951, he would grow up to become a trailblazing lawyer and Canada’s second-ever Indigenous judge. His career was defined by an unwavering commitment to human rights, culminating in his pivotal role as Chief Commissioner of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in 2009. Later, as a senator and Chancellor of Queen’s University, Sinclair continued to champion Indigenous rights, leaving behind a profound legacy of compassionate leadership and a relentless pursuit of a better, more equitable future for all Canadians.
1964 - 2018
John Uptigrove lived at the intersection of imagination and invention, bringing his dream of flight to life with the Mosquito Ultralight helicopter. A loving father and creative engineer, his curiosity and encouragement inspired many. Though he left the world too soon, his legacy of innovation and imagination continues to soar.
1958 - 1981
Terry Fox was a Canadian icon whose extraordinary determination captivated a nation and continues to inspire millions around the world. The Marathon of Hope, which began in April 1980, saw Terry run 5,373 kilometres over 143 days, from the Atlantic Ocean in Newfoundland to Thunder Bay, Ontario. Terry Fox passed away on June 28, 1981, just shy of his 23rd birthday, before he was able to complete his cross-country journey. However, Terry’s legacy and the Marathon of Hope continue to resonate across Canada and the world. He remains a symbol of courage, hope and the boundless human spirit.
Born 1990
Adam Naismith’s life is defined by resilience, purpose and kindness. Raised in Saskatchewan, Alberta and the Northwest Territories, he faced the sudden loss of his father at age 12 and found strength and support in an inspirational teacher, a pivotal moment that would define his future career path. Supported by the Canada Company Children of the Fallen Scholarship from 2008 to 2012, Adam earned degrees in education and counselling and now finds purpose as a teacher, husband and father, dedicating each day to uplifting his students, family and community.
1981 - 2024
Brodie Alexander Craswell lived a life defined by joy, adventure and an unwavering commitment to family and community. The youngest of three, Brodie cultivated an entrepreneurial spirit from a young age, balanced with a deep love for sports and the outdoors. His early years were marked by close-knit family bonds, outdoor escapades and a natural ability to connect with people. A devoted husband to Ashley and a hands-on father to Meredith and Hannah, Brodie filled their lives with love, light and memorable experiences. Brodie left behind a legacy of kindness, generosity and a joyful spirit that continues to inspire and connect all who knew him.
1909 - 2012
Born in Victoria, British Columbia in 1909, William Lore overcame discriminatory barriers and multiple enlistment rejections to become the first Chinese Canadian civil servant and the first person of Chinese descent to serve in any Commonwealth navy during the Second World War. After intelligence service in Myanmar, he joined Rear Admiral Cecil Harcourt’s staff during World War II. On August 31, 1945, Lore became the first Allied officer to land in Hong Kong following Japan's surrender, where he bravely confronted Japanese guards to liberate mistreated Allied prisoners at the Sham Shui Po POW camp. William Lore spent his life breaking down barriers and achieving many firsts, leaving a legacy of bravery and determination after his death in 2012.
1893 - 1957
A Kanyen'kehà:ka (Mohawk) veteran of both World Wars, Oliver Milton Martin rose from a First World War commissioned officer and pilot to become Canada’s first Indigenous Brigadier during the Second World War. Beyond his historic military career, Martin served as an educator, became Ontario’s first Indigenous magistrate and passionately advocated for Indigenous rights, educational reform and the end of compulsory enfranchisement. He passed away in 1957, leaving an inspirational legacy of service, advocacy and kindness.
1876 - 1957
Born in 1876 and 1883 to freedom fighter Abraham Courtney, Black Canadian brothers Jacob and Henry Courtney fought systemic racism and discrimination to enlist and serve in the First World War. While Jacob enlisted early and fought at Canal du Nord, Henry faced repeated racially motivated obstacles. Persistent community activism eventually pressured the military to form the all-Black No. 2 Construction Battalion, which enabled Henry to enlist and serve in France. Both brothers survived the war, returning to Canada to establish a proud family legacy of military service.