JOHN George CALPAS
(BSc Ag. MAg.Ed. P Ag.)
1932 – 2022
John Calpas of Lethbridge, Alberta, beloved husband of the late Juli Ann, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2022, at his Martha’s House residence at the age of 89 years.
John was raised on the family farm in Tilley, Alberta. He was very dedicated to his career in agriculture. After obtaining a degree at the University of Alberta, he became an Agrologist in 1956. His 31-year career with Alberta Agriculture saw him progress from District Agriculturist in Taber to Regional Director in Lethbridge, then to Edmonton in the position of Director of Extension for Alberta Agriculture. His career took him back to Lethbridge in 1985 as the Director of the Irrigation Division. In 1990 John moved to the Lethbridge College as Agricultural Program Administrator for ten years. Finally, he spent three years at the Lethbridge Research Centre.
John has been recognized for his contributions to the province’s agriculture industry with several awards and, always working closely with farmers and agri-business leaders, has a legacy of highlights. He was proud of the many international agricultural tours he organized and guided. John was a long time Knights of Columbus member as well as an active community member. In retirement he enjoyed being part of organizing over ten vacation/cultural trips to China.
John was especially devoted to his wife, Juli. They married in 1960 and his studies, work, vacations, and adventure took them both to many places around the world. The trips very often involved farm tours! He was an avid casual photographer and enjoyed landscaping and gardening. With five boys, they were also very busy supporting various school and sports activities. John loved talking about farming and spent time back on the family farm whenever he could.
John was predeceased by his loving wife of 56 years, Juli Ann; parents George and Apolonia Calpas; brothers Lukas, George, and Joe; and sisters Ann and Victoria.
He is survived by sons Greg (Suzanne), Loren, Ron, Ken, Bryan; and granddaughters Madison, Alexandra, and Sydney.
A Catholic Prayer Vigil will be held at 6:00 pm on Thursday, May 12, 2022 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610, 4 STREET SOUTH, Lethbridge, Alberta. To watch the service via livestream, please go to https://www.mbfunerals.com/obituary/John-Calpas and scroll to the bottom of the obituary page to find the link.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 1:00 pm on Friday, May 13, 2022 at OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2405 12 Ave SOUTH, Lethbridge, Alberta with Father Derek Remus, celebrant. To watch the service via livestream, please go to https://www.mbfunerals.com/obituary/John-Calpas and scroll to the bottom of the obituary page to find the link.
A Reception will follow in the church hall.
Flowers are gratefully declined. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Covenant Foundation, 1400 9 Ave S, Lethbridge, AB T1J 4V5.
Visit www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
