Obituary of Mel BLACKBURN

December 12, 1940 – Prince George, British Columbia
May 8, 2021 – Calgary, Alberta

Melvin Blackburn of Calgary, AB passed away peacefully at home with his loving wife Gina by his side on Saturday, May 8, 2021, at the age of 80 years.

Mel was born December 12, 1940, in Prince George, BC to Herb and Idelle Blackburn. Mel spent his formative years in Fort St. James, BC where he had access to the lake, small-town amenities, friends and extended family. Mel graduated from Nechako Valley (Vanderhoof) High School in 1958 and went on to earn a degree in Geological Engineering from the University of British Columbia in 1965. 
 
After graduating university Mel moved to Alberta and began working for Schlumberger and enjoyed a successful 40-year career in the oil and gas industry. In 1970 he met his life partner, Georgina (Gina), and they wed in 1971, going on to have two children, Lauralyn and Lorraine.  They settled in Calgary, AB and spent the next 50 years building a happy life together.  

In 2005, Mel retired and began his next passion; soaring. Mel spent many happy hours soaring in his glider plane above the mountains of Invermere. For several years Mel and Gina travelled down to New Zealand as well to experience soaring in the Southern Hemisphere.  After health issues kept him from flying, Mel kept busy spending time with family, playing pickleball, fixing things around his house (and his daughters’ houses when visiting), and walking in the park.

Anyone who knew Mel knew that he was the most loving father, husband, and grandfather a family could ask for.  He was quiet, kind and gentle. He was not a fan of large social gatherings but loved deep conversations. His family was very important to him and he loved spending time supporting their endeavours and hearing about what was happening in their lives. Mel also gave back to his community through the years – whether it was the Rosemont Community Association, school parent advisory committees or Glider Club executives, Mel gave freely of his time to support those around him.  

Mel is survived and lovingly remembered by his wife of 50 years Gina, his two daughters, Lauralyn and Lorraine (Ken); and his two granddaughters, Avery and Caitlyn. Mel is also survived by his siblings, Audrey (Collin), Wayne (Ginny) and Lloyd (Myrna). He was predeceased by his parents.

Due to COVID, no memorial service will be held at this time.  If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to Operation Eyesight Universal, https://operationeyesight.com/  or a charity of your choice. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Mel’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com.

In living memory of Mel Blackburn, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 CENTRE STREET NORTH, CALGARY, AB T2E 2V6, Telephone: 403-243-8200.