Obituary of Frank Allan Mason

July 6, 1953 - Amherst, Nova Scotia

August 13, 2022 - Calgary, Alberta

The family of Frank Allan Mason is deeply saddened to announce his passing on Saturday, August 13, 2022, at the age of 69 years. He passed away peacefully with loved ones by his side.

Frank is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Patricia (née Kirk) and beloved children, Brent (Katrina), Kirk (Carla), Patrice Tickell (Jay), and Natalie Riddle (Aaron); as well as his five adorable grandchildren, Frank, Sayde, Monroe, Tazz, and Macey whom he cherished from the bottom of his heart. Additionally, he is survived by his sister, Gail Boylan (Mike), his two brothers, Mike (Susan) and Steven (Doreen), sister-in-law, Trish McIntosh, as well as many dear nieces and nephews.

Frank was predeceased by his father, Francis Lewis Mason, mother, Effie Edwina Mason, baby brother, Francis Mason, and oldest brother, Gary Mason.

Frank was born in Amherst, Nova Scotia in 1953 and raised in New Glasgow, N.S. from 1958 to 1970. He developed a strong love for music during his young formative years, becoming quite an accomplished piano player, winning several awards at the Kiwanis Festival. Then, he was off to Saint Francis Xavier University in Antigonish, N.S. where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree with a major in Political Science and a minor in Economics. From there he pursued a law degree from Dalhousie University in Halifax, N.S. from 1973 to 1976.

During his University years he met the love of his life, got married in 1978, and went off to Calgary in 1980 to embark upon a very successful career in Civil Litigation. Frank appeared in Courts all over Alberta for over 45 years as both Defence and Plaintiff Counsel. In a law practice one is expected to do a fair amount of marketing. Being a true Maritimer, what could be more appropriate than a yearly lobster party for his clients shared with his family? It started small in the garage and graduated to as many as 150 people in the backyard. A bagpiper and a live band playing Celtic music were all part of the festivities. Over the years the clients really looked forward to this event with the family, albeit many times in inclement weather, a tradition that lasted over 25 years!

Patricia and Frank began raising a family in 1981 and had four beautiful children all of whom he adored. Of course, having offspring as lovely as they are, doesn’t come without its different and unique challenges. Thus, the Saturday morning ritual of coffee sprouted when the shenanigans of the previous busy week were discussed, and strategies developed to move forward with our rambunctious crew.

As dear as his career was to Frank, his family ultimately came first. He worked hard throughout his life to provide for his family and give them the best. Although his law practice was a “demanding mistress”, using Frank’s words, he always found time to enjoy watching his children in their various sports, whether it be hockey, soccer, or figure skating, and escaping to the mountains to go skiing. When we’d get to the ‘Top of the World’ at Lake Louise, one of his favourite spots, he’d tell the kids to look at the view and “Lock and load”. Growing up in Nova Scotia by the ocean, another favourite spot was the channel at Blackpoint where he spent many joyous hours with his wife and children. In fact, Frank and Patricia had a summer home on the North shore of Nova Scotia for 16 years where they hosted countless cherished and memorable family gatherings.

We would be remiss if we didn’t mention the legendary dining room gatherings. We will forever hold dear the amazing memories - the camaraderie, laughter, storytelling, and bantering around the table with our family and friends. Frank would often just love to stir the pot, and then sit back watching the antics ensue.

Frank’s first retirement was 2011. Although he continued working after that, he did take more time to enjoy travelling all over the world, including North America, Africa, Asia, Australia, and Europe with family and friends. Yes, we had the best for which we are forever grateful.

Frank will always be remembered by many for speaking his truth. Sometimes, people didn’t want to hear it, but there was most often an important message to be conveyed. He was a man of integrity who stood by his beliefs and values, mentoring many in his personal and professional life. Moreover, his boisterous voice which carried and could be heard not only throughout a household or an office, but also sometimes an entire neighborhood, will never be forgotten.

If we could leave you with any words from Frank it would be, “If it is to be, it is up to me.”

Frank, you will be so dearly missed by family and dear friends. In these past few months, you have shown such strength, courage, and resilience in the face of immense adversity. You have been an inspiration to all who have had the honour of knowing you. May you rest in peace now, my love, dad, and granddad. We hope someday to see you on the other side. It’s not good-bye; we’ll see you later.

A Celebration of Life will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB) on Saturday, August 20, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home. Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Frank's service streamed live (see below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted. Condolences, memories, and photos can also be shared and viewed here.

The family wants to express their sincere and deep gratitude to Frank’s Oncologist, Dr. Monzon, for not only his expertise but also for his tremendous support and compassion. Thank you to all the dedicated nurses at the Foothills Hospital and to the amazing team at Foothills Country Hospice who gave so much of themselves to help us throughout this journey.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation, 28 Oki Drive NW, Calgary, AB. T3B 6A8, Telephone: (403) 955.8818. www.childrenshospital.ab.ca to support research, programs, and services for childhood cancer.

In living memory of Frank Mason, 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.

Frank's memorial card can be viewed by clicking here

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