Kirk Anthony Olchowy, age 70, passed away on August 2nd, 2026 with family by his side, at the Crowsnest Pass Health Centre. Kirk was very grateful for all of the Health Care professionals in the Crowsnest Pass and Lethbridge. He was also thankful for those who supported him and prayed for him during his lengthy illness including; his family and friends, his Fish and Wildlife family, Father Joseph and fellow Parishioners at Holy Trinity Parish, brothers in the Knights of Columbus, and others.
Kirk lived a good life based on Christian values, and an appreciation for family and God’s creation. He grew up in a faith-filled and loving home in small town rural Alberta where his love for the outdoors began. He cherished the time spent with his dad fishing, so much so, that when his own sons arrived, he was determined to create the same kind of memories with them. He had them out fishing as toddlers, and when older--hiking, and he taught them about animals and wildlife.
He had a successful career as an Alberta Fish and Wildlife Officer, serving in districts from Lac La Biche in the north, to Blairmore in the south, and districts in between. He had a deep commitment and respect for wildlife and their habitat. He worked with one of the best problem bear specialists from another district and became an expert in his own right. During the last ten years of his career he was accompanied by his Karelian Bear Dog, Mica. One of the highlights of their work was patrolling for bears at the G8 in Kananaskis. Kirk and Mica retired in early 2011, and that summer was spent ensuring that Mica had the best time ever before his passing in November.
Kirk’s retirement dream was to RV, and in June, 2010, Kirk and Donna found the perfect unit for them, and they, along with cockatiel, Joey (yes, birds love to travel and RV too!), spent the next 14 springs and summers camping, fishing and exploring B. C., Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. They were often joined by other family members and their good friend from Australia.
Kirk leaves behind those whom he loved and who loved him: his wife, Donna; sons, Gaelan (Catherine) and Marc; bird, Joey; his loving mother, Louise; sisters, Grace (Bill), Renee, Joan, Tessa, Lisa (Brian), and brother, Brett; Aunt Carole and Uncle Dale; his sister-in-law, Brenda; brother-in-law, Wayne (Lois), and many nieces and nephews, their spouses and children; his and Donna’s cousins, their spouses and families; all of his friends, and grand dog, Tusk.
He was pre-deceased by his father, Henry; infant brothers, Joseph and Mark; parents-in-law, Molly and Henry; Mica and grand dog, Horatio.
Due to distances to travel and his concern for those with health issues, Kirk requested that a funeral not be held.
In lieu of flowers and food, those wishing to make memorial donations may do so to the Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Parish Mortgage (Box 1410, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0).
Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.
Fantin's Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements. (403) 562-8555