Obituary of Carl Millar

June 18, 1937 - Montreal, Quebec

January 14, 2025 - Calgary, Alberta

It is with profound sadness that we announce the death of Carleton “Carl” Millar at Agape Hospice in Calgary, AB, at 87 years of age.

Carl leaves behind his loving wife of 51 years Lesley, his daughters Seanna Millar and Janice (Chris) Hooper; his cherished grandchildren Quinn, Fraser, Declan and Stella; and his brother Eric Millar. Carl is predeceased by his sister-in-law Cathy Millar.

Born, raised, and educated in Montreal, QC, Carl graduated from McGill University with a Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) degree in 1961 and started his career at Dominion Bridge before joining Stelco Inc., where his career thrived until his retirement in 2001. Carl was a true salesperson and leader, mentoring his team and bringing out the best in the people around him.

Carl was a wonderful volunteer throughout his life, driven by his belief in giving back to the community. Based on his and Lesley’s love of classical music, they became involved with the inaugural Honens International Piano Competition as a host family in 1992 and went on to host subsequent competitors in 1996 and 1999. He took on successive leadership positions, joining the Board of Directors, then serving as Vice-Chairman and Chairman of the Development Committee and finally becoming Chairman of the Board. This experience enriched his and Lesley’s life in so many ways, making many new friends that they have to this day. Additionally, Carl was the Campaign Co-Chairman of the United Way of Calgary, a Governor of the Oilmen’s and a driver for the Canadian Cancer Society, taking patients to their hospital appointments.

Carl loved spending his summers at the family cottage in Muskoka, ON, where he and Lesley hosted many friends and family over the years. He delighted in watching his children and grandchildren engage in many water sports, enjoyed sitting with Lesley drinking a glass of wine on the dock, and was proud to raise the Canada and Alberta flags at the beginning of each season.

Winters were spent enjoying skiing, including many trips with “the boys” up until his late 70s. Carl loved a good party surrounded by close friends, and spent many years ringing in the new year with the New Year’s group to more recent dinner parties at their condo. If there was a dance floor, you’d find Carl displaying his exceptional dance skills. Carl and Lesley also enjoyed wonderful travels to far off places.

Carl’s engaging personality, his ability to make everyone feel like they were the centre of his attention, and his wonderful sense of humour stayed with him until the very end.

Heartfelt thanks to the staff at Riverstone Condo, Dr. Patricia Bryden, the team on Unit 54 at the Foothills Medical Centre, and to the staff at Agape Hospice.

If you wish to join the Celebration of Carl’s Life in Calgary, AB, in the spring, please send a note to hoopercp@yahoo.ca.

As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made in Carl’s memory to Honens International Piano Competition (1170-105 12 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 1A1), 403-299-0130, www.honens.com/donate.

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

In living memory of Carleton Millar, 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.