Obituary of George Steber

September 9, 1929 - Montreal, Quebec

August 7, 2023 - Calgary, Alberta

George lived a fulfilled life. On the morning of Monday, August 7, 2023, with his loving wife Gertrude, of 66 years, he passed away.

His gentle nature welcomed many people into his life, his hallmarks were patience, listening and understanding. George was brought up in Montreal, with his parents, Katy and George Sr. He attended the School of Engineering at St. Francis Xavier in Antigonish, later returning to Montreal to graduate with an Architectural Degree from McGill University. In 1963 he earned a master’s degree in architecture (Urban Design). George worked in several firms in Montreal, then ventured to Paris where he met his beloved wife. He moved to London and worked with James Cubitt, which gave him an opportunity to work in Burma for two years. Returning to Canada, George and Trudi were married in New Westminster on October 19, 1957. He joined the planning department for the city of Montreal, leaving it as Deputy Director. During this time, Trudy and George had three daughters and built a cottage in the Laurentians. In 1972 he became the Director of Planning for the City of Calgary. His sense of discovery took him to the Base Camp of Everest. Together they visited four continents and enjoyed many fond memories in their Westfalia. In the 80s George became the President of the Alberta Arbitration and Mediation Society. During this time, he co-founded an Outdoor Equipment Store, Spirit West, with Steve Bommer. Both parents were deeply invested in the church and believed in the idea of service, sitting on numerous committees and church councils. They both were dedicated to building community, recognizing that relationships are a key factor to neighbours’ sense of belonging.

George is survived by his soulmate, Gertrude, and three daughters, Jennifer Steber, Thomas Schwabenbauer (son of Jennifer), Whitney (Pagenkopf), and Kathryn (Soby).

Memorial Services will be held at Fish Creek United Church (77 Deer Point Road SW, Calgary, AB) on Saturday, August 19, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Church Hall. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with George’s family here.

In living memory of George Steber, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.