EDWARD HUNTER FITZGERALD
Edward Hunter Fitzgerald (Hunter) age 86, of Priddis Alberta, passed away on Wednesday, May 4, 2022, in Calgary, Alberta after a lengthy battle with cancer. Hunter managed his illness with strength and grace, and wanted to spend as much time with his loved ones as possible. In his final days, he was surrounded by his family.
Hunter was born in Montreal, Quebec to Norah Fitzgerald (nee James) and Dr. Richard Ralph Fitzgerald. He grew up with older sister Molly and dog, Bill. As a young adult, he worked as a surveyor in the Yukon. He attended UBC to study business. This sparked his interest for the insurance business. While at UBC, he met Annette and were married in 1959. Within 2 years, they had started their family and Carol was born. As soon as they purchased their first home in Richmond, BC, Hunter was transferred by his company, to Toronto, Ontario where Corrine was born. In 1972, Hunter was transferred to Calgary, Alberta and Ralph was born. Over the course of his career, Hunter worked for several different insurance companies focussing on the oil and gas sector.
Hunter was thrilled to be living in Alberta as his father was born here. Hunter yearned to spend time in the mountains. As a family they loved skiing, camping and hiking. His interest in skiing grew and he decided to become a weekend ski instructor at Lake Louise. His passion for skiing began at Lake Louise, teaching with Mike Wiegele, but quickly progressed to heli-skiing in British Columbia. He helped develop Mike’s business by applying his expertise in safety and risk management. Hunter was also instrumental in helping establish the Canadian Ski Guide Association. He was also very involved with his Church community and actively supported programs close to his heart including Teen Challenge and The Mustard Seed. He was an avid golfer and loved his dogs.
Being a kind, dependable husband, father and grandfather, was of the utmost importance to Hunter. He was married to the love of his life, Annette, for 62 years. In addition to Annette, Carol, Corrine, and Ralph, Hunter is survived by his sister, Molly Pritchard; grandchildren, Christine, Carey, Katrina, Samantha, Alexandra, Annie, and Hunter Jr as well as many nieces and nephews.
A private family memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Hunter’s memory to
Teen Challenge.
Hunter passed away on May 4th – National Star Wars Day which seemed appropriate as he was a big fan of the series. May the Force (of God) be with you, Hunter!
To view and share photos, condolences and memories of Hunter, please visit www.choicememorial.com.