Obituary of Colin Arthur Catley

March 21, 1933 – Calgary, Alberta

August 9, 2024 – Cochrane, Alberta

It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Colin Catley on Friday, August 9, 2024, surrounded by family, at the age of 91 years.

Colin was born in Calgary and attended Crescent Heights High School, where he met the first love of his life, Doreen. In the early 1950s, while working at Canadian Western Natural Gas, he discovered the second love of his life, flying – specifically the P51-D Mustang. He was granted an 18-month leave of absence from work and joined the RCAF for pilot training. After earning his “wings” he flew with the 403 City of Calgary Squadron (Auxiliary). He and Doreen were married in September 1954, embarking on their life-long journey together, and the family quickly grew to be six by 1961. Colin left the Reserves and CWNG, and joined Tuxedo Credit Union as manager, and continued working in the Credit Union system in various capacities for over 30 years. Colin was very involved with community and church, volunteering tirelessly over many decades. After retirement he found another outlet for his love of planes by joining and volunteering with the Air Crew Association of Southern Alberta and the Cold War Exhibit at the Military Museums of Calgary.

Colin lived his life with joy, passion, and integrity. He was highly regarded and respected; all who knew him will remember his generous and loyal nature. Family was cherished by him, and he always looked forward to and delighted in our many family gatherings.

After Doreen passed away, Colin moved to an independent senior’s residence in Cochrane. While there, he met the third love of his life, Heather. They were joyful and devoted companions until her passing in 2022.

Colin will be missed by children Colleen (George), Jim (Leslie), Elaine (Gerry), and Mike (Kim); grandchildren Chad, Don (Angela), KC (Rachel), Andrew (India), Alana (David), Matthew, Daniel (Christina), Nathan, and Samantha (Chad); great-grandchildren Alison, Canter, Gage, Lorelai, Nolan, Ava, Kaidance, Jack, Jude, Poppy, and Mackenzie; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and their families, and many friends.

Colin was predeceased by his wife Doreen in 2016, sisters Stella and Helen, brother John, and grandson RJ.

On behalf of Colin, the family would like to thank Randell, Jeanette, Penny, and the other wonderful staff of Grande Avenue Village, for making his final years most enjoyable.

A Memorial Service will be held at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church (1611 St. Andrew’s Place N.W.) on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. Reception to follow in the Church Hall.

At Colin’s request, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Veteran’s Association Food Bank of Alberta, Bay 10, 820-28 St NE, Calgary, AB, T2A-6K1, Telephone: 403-367-8387, www.veteransassociationfoodbank.ca

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

In living memory of Colin Catley, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Cochrane, 369 Railway Street, Cochrane, AB T4C 2E2, Telephone: 403-932-4740.