December 8, 1939 – March 22, 2025

John Aitken passed away peacefully at his Columbia Lake home, surrounded by his loving family, on March 22, 2025. He was known for his easygoing and gentle manner, his appreciation for life’s simple joys, and his deep love for family. Born in Edmonton, John moved to Calgary at the age of three. He later returned to Edmonton to complete his degree in Dentistry at the University of Alberta. He began his career in Drumheller, where he met his beloved wife, Shirley. They recently celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary. Shirley’s unwavering support enabled John to pursue the many things that were important to him in life. He maintained his dental practice in Calgary for 40 years. John dedicated countless hours to both community and professional causes. Throughout his career, he made significant contributions to the dental community, serving in leadership roles, including as president of both the Calgary and Alberta Dental Associations. Beyond his profession, John was an avid reader and a skilled woodworker. He was a formidable curler and golfer from his teens into his eighties, and took up bowling after retirement. He and Shirley never tired of spectator sports and always cheered for the home team. John cherished the Columbia Valley, where he and Shirley have been members of the Columere Park community since the 1970s. In 2004, John retired and they moved to the valley full-time, where he was a cherished friend and neighbor to many. Driving to Calgary to attend a grandchild’s sports game or performance was never a burden — it was a joy. Their answer to “can we come visit” was always an emphatic yes, and the children and grandchildren treasured the time they spent with their grandparents at the lake. John was predeceased by his parents, Don and Kay Aitken, and his sister, Patricia McLeod. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Shirley, and their children: Kathleen (Paul), Michelle (David), Scott (Judy), and Steven (Dawn). He was a proud and loving grandfather to Mark, Luke, Ellen, Cameron, Brian, Logan, Mitchell, Keaton, Abbey, and Nate, as well as their spouses and partners. John will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of kindness, wry humour, and dedication to his family, profession, and community will be fondly remembered. A celebration of John's life will be held at Mountainside Golf Course, Fairmont, B.C. on May 31, 2025, at 12 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory would be gratefully accepted by the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Columbia Valley Food Bank.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with John’s family at mcphersonfh.com