John Allan Anderson

   It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of John Allan Anderson on Friday, May 21, 2021. He passed peacefully and will be sadly missed by his wife of 55 years, Rita, and his daughters, Julie and Karen. He was a loving husband, an incredible father and a friend to all who were fortunate enough to meet him.

   Born and raised in the Crowsnest Pass, AB, John had an adventurous spirit and an appreciation of its untamed wilderness, camping and exploring in the mountains from a very young age. As he grew older, this spirit of adventure led him to join the Canadian Armed Forces, taking him to Ottawa, ON where he met the beautiful young woman who would become his wife and join him on adventures around the globe. From the pyramids of Egypt, to the cathedrals of Germany, to the rugged wilderness in Alaska, John traveled the world, embracing new cultures and traditions, but always felt called by the mountains where he was raised.

   Following 30 years of service in the military including work as part of the United Nations and NATO, John returned with his family to live in Blairmore, AB just a few short steps away from his childhood home. He was a dedicated member of the community, and generous with his time and his laughter. As a bus driver, he inspired many generations of youth with his tales of the world and his childlike appreciation of all it has to offer, from the magic of Santa Claus to the regal beauty of a bighorn sheep. As a volunteer with Cadets, he encouraged others to serve their country, and as a member of the Lions, he demonstrated the importance of giving back to the community he deeply loved.

   John lived a life to be envied. He was not afraid to work hard and was the first to step in to help a friend or neighbour. But he also took the time to enjoy every aspect of life, and was easily found in any crowd, just by listening for his laughter.  He was a friend to many and he will be missed. As a husband and a father, the loss from his passing is profound. He is irreplaceable, but his legacy will live on through his wife and daughters who share his same adventurous spirit and appreciation of all the beauty this world has to give.  We lovingly remember John Allan Anderson, whose life has touched and inspired so many. He will never be forgotten.

   A Graveside Service will be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations will be gratefully accepted by Crowsnest Pass “Spay our Strays” Program (Call: 403-563-8765).  Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.

Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements. (403) 562-8555

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John Allan Anderson, please visit our floral store.