Obituary of James Laurie Duncan

November 24, 1934 – Calgary, Alberta

August 29, 2023 – Calgary, Alberta

It is with great sadness and gratitude for a life well lived that we share the passing of our father James Laurie Duncan on August 29, 2023, at 88 years of age.

Jim or Laurie as he was known in his younger days, was a born and bred Calgarian. He was a proud alumnus of St. Mary’s High School where he excelled in football. He was an avid sports fan. His lifelong passion for hockey began on the outdoor rinks with the Buffalo Association and continued throughout his life. Whether as a player, hockey dad/grandpa, referee, coach, manager, or fan, some of Dad’s happiest times were spent at the rink. He would insist we add, “Go Flames Go!”

Dad married the love of his life, Jane McGowan, in 1959. They were blessed with five children. Dad’s family and his faith were the cornerstones of his life.

He was an employee with CP Rail from the age of 17 until he retired at 64 years of age. He spent the majority of his career as a locomotive engineer.

After Mom passed away and Dad retired, he threw himself into volunteer work. Among other works of charity, Dad coordinated Inn from the Cold at St. Gerard’s Parish, volunteered picking up furniture and delivering hampers for the St. Vincent De Paul Society and worked bingos for the Women’s Shelter. He was always willing to lend a hand or provide a ride to friends, neighbours, or strangers.

Dad is survived by his children, Mary Jane (Rick), Jamie, Brent (Valerie), Grant (Jo-Anne), and Laurie Ann (Jeff); his beloved grandchildren, Chris (Brittany), Scott (Carmen), Tim, Sarah (Brendan), Alison (Chad), Ben (Hope), Bailey (Taylor), and Katie; and his precious great-grandchildren, Miles, Ida, and Mabel. Great-grandpa was excitedly awaiting the arrival of his newest great-grandson in November.

He was predeceased by his most beloved wife Jane, his parents, James and Gladys; and his brother Stuart.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Gerard’s Catholic Church (8944 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB) on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. Graveside Service to follow at Eden Brook Memorial Gardens. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with James’ family here.

In living memory of James Duncan, 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.