In Memory of Alan George Stephen

On Wednesday, March 7, 2012, Alan George Stephen, loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle passed away at the age of 78 years.

Alan will be forever loved and remembered by his loving family: Anne, his wife of 50 years; his children, Daniel (Erica) Stephen, Andrew (Tracey) Stephen, and Katherine (Geoff) Anselmo; his grandchildren, Jenelle, Kaylyn, Taylir, Matthew and Mackenna; brother, Eric (Carol) Stephen; nephew, Scott (Susan) Stephen; niece, Kim (Anson) Choy and many relatives and friends. Predeceased by his parents, Henry and Phyllis Stephen; and one brother, John Stephen.

Born in Peace River, Alberta on March 10, 1933, Alan lived in Lloydminster and then settled in Edmonton with his family. Attending Victoria Composite High School, Alan developed his enthusiasm for sports, including playing basketball. While attending high school, Alan would deliver CNT telegraph messages on his bike. Once high school was over, Alan joinеd Canadian National Telecommunications full time and began his 37 year career with the company.

At the CNT Offices and during numerous activities organized through the CN Recreation Association, Alan met a fellow co-worker and future wife, Anne Balke. During their courtship, Alan embraced his sweetheart’s Ukrainian heritage and eventually became an alumni member of the Ukrainian National Youth Federation - MUNO.

Married in 1961, Alan and Anne continued to live in Edmonton with Alan taking additional CNT training courses to learn the technical side of the business. In 1967, an opportunity arose to move to Hay River, NWT. So the family, which included their two sons Daniel and Andrew, packed their bags and took the long drive north on gravel roads. While in the North, the Stephen family grew by one with the birth of their daughter Katherine, and Alan was promoted to management positions.

In 1978, Alan transferred back to Edmonton and the family moved once again to start a new life.  Alan and Anne renewed their involvement with the Ukrainian National Federation and over the years, Alan was a member of UNF branch executives, many years being Treasurer.

When CNT began cutbacks in 1988, Alan was faced with an unexpected early retirement and extra time on his hands. He used that extra time to learn more about his own Scottish heritage. He began to take Gaelic lessons, travelled to Nova Scotia to immerse himself in Gaelic culture at a summer college, and also travelled with Anne to Scotland to visit with his long-lost family. Alan also volunteered with St. Anthony’s Parish Food Bank program.

Alan enjoyed the many hours spent watching his grandchildren involved in many different sports and other extracurricular activities. He took great delight in being a part of their lives.

In June 2010, Alan suffered a massive stroke which left him partially paralyzed and with some difficulty in speaking. He struggled to regain some of his strength and abilities and was able to enjoy his 50th Wedding Anniversary in August 2011 with invited friends and family.

Just three days shy of his 79th Birthday, Alan passed away with his family by his side in his room at Touchmark at Wedgewood.

ВІЧНА ЙОМУ ПАМ’ЯТЬ -

May His Memory Be Eternal