Obituary of Edward Oliver Akeson

April 27, 1925 – Ottawa, Ontario

February 28, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

 
Edward Akeson, beloved husband of Rosemarie Akeson (née O'Byrne), of Calgary, AB, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, at the young age of 98 years. He was a devoted husband, loving father, caring grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and a dear friend to many.

He was born and raised in Ottawa. Edward played trumpet in several dancehall bands until all the band members went off to fight in WWII. He never spoke about his contribution to end the Great War, but we suspect there are many untold stories. Upon his return from Europe, he attended Queen's University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce degree. He spent his career working at CIL as an accountant in Edmonton, Montreal, Nobel, and Calgary, where he made many lasting friendships. In his spare time, Edward enjoyed golfing, playing his trumpet and accordion, and completing daily crossword puzzles. In retirement, he and Rosemarie traveled across the country in their RV and spent winters in Arizona, enjoying their love for golf and family. He golfed into his 92nd year.

Edward leaves behind his two sons, Gregory and Brent; and two daughters, Sharon and Michelle. He will also be remembered by his ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Edward was predeceased by his wife Rosemarie, son Rodney, grandson Quentin, parents, Delia Desjardins and Oliver Akeson; four brothers, Lester, Norman, Martin, Peter; and sister Edna.

A private interment will take place later this spring in Calgary. A Celebration of Edward's Life will be held at a later date in Ontario. The family would like to thank everyone for their love and support during this difficult time.

Edward will be most remembered for his kind heart, his love for family and friends, and his unwavering dedication to everything he did. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. The family would like to thank the special people at Colonel Belcher Retirement Community and Mackenzie Towne Retirement Home, and all his caregivers for their wonderful assistance in Edward’s final years. 

Rest peacefully Dad. You will always hold a special place in our hearts.

If friends so desire memorial tributes may be made directly to the Ups & Downs (Calgary's Down Syndrome Association), Box 61180, Kensington RPO, Calgary, AB T2N 4S6 Telephone: (403) 289-4394, https://upsdowns.org/donate/, or to The Alzheimer Society of Alberta and the Northwest Territories, Administrative Office, 10531 Kingsway Avenue, Edmonton AB T5H 4K1. Tel: (1-866) 950-5465, www.alzheimer.ab.ca.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Edward’s family here.

In living memory of Edward Akeson, 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.