Obituary of John Charles DOHERTY

May 23, 1944 – May 5, 2020

Calgary, Alberta

It is with sadness that the family of John Charles Doherty announce his passing on Tuesday, May 5, 2020.

A true character, refreshingly unfiltered opinions, a big soft heart, and incredible skill, those closest to him will sincerely miss his influence in their lives.

Born on May 23, 1944, in Calgary, AB, John resided his full seventy-five years in his city. His career with the Calgary Fire Department spanned twenty-eight years, of which he broadly served in all capacities retiring as Captain Doherty. His innovative problem-solving and mechanical mind aligned perfectly in this career where he proudly served his community. Prior to his service with the Calgary Fire Department, John earned papers in many trades. Gifted with an innate mechanical ability, John touched many lives with his exceptional skills, as he encouraged many to “pop by his garage”. This workshop was used to repair, restore, rebuild, and refinish pianos, cars, electronic equipment, and furniture. A friend described him as “a mechanical genius – he had a tool for every mechanical task known to man” That said, if he didn’t have the tool, he could certainly “zip” one-off in his garage.

Balancing out his life, John was an avid fisherman bringing fresh west coast salmon to his family each year, freezing it and canning it himself (because he could). He loved water sports, owned his own boat, and found such enjoyment with friends on these outings. Later in life, he embraced the game of golf, joined Country Hills Golf Course, and spent many hours on the links. Always a valued member of a foursome—those closest to him often accused of implementing the “foot wedge” or utilizing the “modified John Doherty scoring system”.

John is survived by his sisters, Maureen Braun (Thomas) and Lyla Stevens; stepsons, Brian and Brad Gibson; several cousins and much-loved nieces and nephews who will fiercely miss UJ (Uncle John), and God-daughter Ceili and her brother Cian. He will be greatly missed by his long-time friend Shirley Plato.

John was predeceased by his parents, James and Euphemia Doherty; sister Elizabeth Beaton (Gordon), nephew Cameron Braun, and great-niece Alexa Middelaer.

Due to the current situation with Covid-19, a Celebration of John’s Life will be held at a later date. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed here.

The family would like to express our thanks to the doctors involved in his care. Special thanks to Dr. Ian Kendal, Dr. Anne-Marie Crawford, Dr. Tina Cheng, and the staff of the Tom Baker Cancer Centre and ICU at the Foothills Medical Center.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Calgary Firefighters Burn Treatment Society, 2234 30 Avenue NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7K9, http://cfbts.org/donate/, the Canadian Cancer Society, 200 – 325 Manning Rd. N.E., Calgary, AB T2E 2P5 Telephone: (403) 205-3966, email donorservices@cancer.ab.ca or the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Alberta, 200, 119 – 14th Street N.W., Calgary, AB T2N 1Z6 Telephone: (403) 264-5549, www.heartandstroke.ca.

In living memory of John Doherty, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Fish Creek, 14441 BANNISTER ROAD SE, CALGARY, Ab, t2x 3j3,  Telephone: 403- 256-9575.

Click Here to View John Doherty's Memorial Card