Obituary of Ross WESTBURY

April 1, 1974 – Calgary, Alberta
June 7, 2020 – Calgary, Alberta

It is with deep sadness we announce that Ross Westbury, beloved son, brother and friend passed away on Sunday, June 7, 2020 after a series of health problems, at the young age of 46 years.

Ross was born on April 1, 1974 in Calgary. He attended Lord Beaverbrook High School, Mount Royal College (diploma in Physical Education), and the University of Calgary (B.A. in Sociology). His goal, however, was to become a firefighter. On his path to this goal, he attained EMR and EMT-A certifications from NAIT and SAIT. During this time he also did volunteer work at the Alberta Children’s Hospital, Canadian Ski Patrol, U of C Sports Rehabilitation, U of C Safe Walk Program, and the Calgary Distress Centre. 

Ross loved athletics, both team and individual sports. In his youth he participated in soccer, hockey, basketball, golf and skiing. In junior and senior high school, volleyball was a passion. As an adult, Ross continued to pursue fitness, and volunteered at Edmonton YMCA. 
Ross’s first job was at sixteen, working part time at Calgary Co-op, remaining with Co-op until he graduated from university. This was followed by a year teaching English in Japan. His first firefighting experience was a full adrenalin job as a rappel firefighter with Alberta Rapattack.  This helped pave the way to employment as a firefighter with the Edmonton Fire Department. Ross was proud to serve his community as a firefighter. Later, after his departure from the fire service, his heart remained with that important work.

Ross is survived by his parents, David and Carol Westbury of Calgary, sister Jodi Westbury (Peter Konczarek) of Squamish, BC, and several cousins, aunts and uncles.

A private family service will be held to honour Ross. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Ross’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com.

The family expresses sincere thanks to Ross’s family doctor, Dr. Adrian Anderton, for his unwavering support and caring.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to PTSD Association of Canada, (93 Dufferin Avenue, London, ON, N6A 1K3) Telephone: (403) 250-7377, www.ptsdassociation.com/take-action or to the charity of your choice.
 
In living memory of Ross, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES.