Obituary of John Albert Boulanger

January 21, 1935 - St. Brieux, Saskatchewan

August 3, 2023 - Calgary, Alberta

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Boulanger, a beloved 88-year-old husband, father, brother, and grandfather, who left us on Thursday, August 3, 2023.

He was born January 21, 1935, to Mae Lenore Hanberg & Pierre Louis Boulanger in St Brieux, SK. He was predeceased by his parents, three sisters and son Marcus Boulanger.  John’s memory lives on with his wife of 64 years, Clare Boulanger, his children, Pierrette (Will) Beaton, Chris (Deborah Catton) Boulanger, Jennifer (Martin) Lacey; his brother Peter (Donna) Boulanger, sister Loretta (Glen) Doyle; his nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

John was a graduate of the University of Saskatchewan in Chemical Engineering in 1957. He was a lifetime member of the Professional Engineers (APEGGA) and wore his iron ring with pride.  His creativity and logical mind inspired the birth of his farm implement manufacturing company: Boss Engineering.  He developed a front-end loader that for over 20 years was a well-known name in the industry in Western Canada.

John was not only known for his professional accomplishments, but for his love of people and his unique sense of humor. He had an unparalleled knack for bringing smiles to faces and for reminding us all not to take our lives too seriously. His optimism and ‘joie de vivre” carried him through the darkest of his days, however, he always looked for the good things in the world to focus on.  

The mountains, skiing and family were John’s deepest passions.  He was happiest with his kids around, preferably tearing down the slopes of the Rockies. He was a fixture at local ski races or as a cheerleader for his kids in whatever activities they were involved in.  Summer weekends were frequently spent in Banff and the neighbouring hiking trails or picnicking at favourite secret spots.  

Though John may no longer be with us in person, his spirit will continue to shine brightly through the memories and experiences shared by those who were fortunate enough to know and love him. May he rest in eternal peace.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church (1600 Acadia Drive S.E., Calgary, AB) on Friday, August 11, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. Reception to follow in the Parish Hall at the church. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with John’s family here. If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, memorial tributes may be made directly to the PKD Foundation of Canada.

In living memory of John Boulanger, 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.