Obituary of John Stewart Rimell

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of John Stewart Rimell on Saturday, January 28, 2006 who after a brave fight with cancer, died peacefully surrounded by his family. John leaves his loving and beloved wife Wickie; his two adoring and adored children Michael and Sophie; and his step-sons Fort and James Bridgforth. John also leaves to mourn him his first wife Drude and many close friends in Canada, Mexico and Europe. John was born in Wembley Park, England on May 11, 1938. He was educated at Mill Hill School and the London School of Economics and Political Science, where he distinguished himself academically. In 1966, John was recruited in London by the Alberta Oil and Gas Conservation Board resulting in his emigration to Canada. Canada soon became John’s home country and one of his proudest moments was the day he became a Canadian citizen. Other than a three-year period working as an international economist in Europe in the early seventies, for over thirty years John devoted his professional career to the Canadian oil and gas industry. At the time of his retirement in 1998, John was Director of Economics and Planning at Petro-Canada. After John retired, he then shared his time between Mexico and Canada where he and Wickie spent many happy years. By all who knew him, John was known for his infectious sense of humour, deep and wide interests, and intelligent sensitivity. He read avidly and was passionate about music, politics, the Spanish language, Canada and his family. In his early days he was a long distance runner and he enjoyed playing squash, tennis, and golf as long as he was able. Most of all, he was a true gentleman throughout his life whose kindness, warmth, and graciousness touched those around him to the very end. We thank the doctors, nurses, and staff of Unit 73 at the Rockyview General Hospital for their care and kindness during the last few weeks. We will miss John enormously, our husband, our father and our friend, and his wonderful spirit will be with us always. A Memorial Service will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S, Park Memorial Chapel (5008 Elbow Drive S.W.) on Wednesday, February 1, 2006 at 2:30 p.m. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Canadian Cancer Society, 215 – 12 Avenue S.E., Calgary, AB T2G 1A2 Telephone: (403) 205-3966.