It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John William Parkin on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at the age of 93.
John was the eldest of 9 children and took the responsibility of being the eldest very seriously. When his father was sent overseas to fight in World War II, John took on the role of man of the house, caring for his mother and 3 younger siblings. This necessitated him leaving school in grade 8 to support his family. John was a hard worker and a quick learner, attributes that carried him far in life.

John met Carole Hakanson in Pincher Creek, and they both realized very quickly that they had each found their soul mate. They were married in Pincher Creek on May 14, 1955. They welcomed three children making their family complete. John & Carole made the move from Pincher Creek to Calgary, where John used his skills and desire to become a heavy equipment operator. Again, he found that his dedication and hard work led him and Carole to start their own construction company. There were many projects over the decades that John completed, while Carole was their company bookkeeper. Their company was a success, due to John’s knowledge, hard work ethic, honesty & fairness.

John’s interests were many, including flying, having earned his pilot’s license at the age of 19, horseback riding, and particularly his many rides in the mountains, successful hunting trips with family & friends, and their dream of farming became a reality when they purchased a farm in the Carseland area later in life.
John always had a twinkle in his eye, a great sense of humour, a love of children, and a love of animals. John enjoyed playing his guitar, along with Carole accompanying him on piano. There were many sing alongs in their home. A favourite was gathering to sing Christmas carols as a family.
John and Carole’s home was filled with family and friends getting together, where everyone was welcomed. Lifelong friendships formed in early years continued for decades.

John and Carole enjoyed many road trips down to the western United States, as well as cross Canada trips. On their road trips they quite often took the Road Less Travelled, and came across many interesting out of the way places. As well as road trips, they made frequent trips to Las Vegas with friends, often attending the National Finals Rodeo. They also held regular seats to attend the Canadian Finals Rodeo.
John & Carole moved from the Carseland farm into Okotoks in 2005. They remained there until moving to the Seasons Senior Residence in Olds in 2023.

John faced some health challenges in his last few months, which he faced without complaint, & always with dignity. He never lost his wonderful sense of humour throughout these challenges.
Our world has lost the best of the best.

John was pre deceased by his loving parents John & Johanna Parkin, infant brother Brian, brothers Hank, Gary, George & Lorne. John was also pre deceased by sister-in-laws Evelyn & Betty, John is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Carole Parkin (Hakanson). John was the cherished father to daughters Kathy Kelston (Lou), Susan St. George (Terry), & son Steven.

John is also survived by his sisters Mary Parkin, & Gert Wylhuizen (Herb), and brother Ken (Sharon). John was the loving grandfather to Rhianna (Jordan), Sara (Trevor), Jennifer (Kirk), Daphne (Nick), John (Cynthia), & Bryce. John was also adored by his 7 great grandchildren.

The family extend their heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Seasons Retirement Residence in Olds, the staff at Olds Hospital, the staff at Sunset Manor in Innisfail and the staff at Innisfail Hospital. We are so grateful for the care & compassion given to our Husband, Dad, Grandpa & Great Grandpa.
A private family service will take place at a later dates.

Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.heartlandfuneralservices.com. Arrangements in care of: Heartland Funeral Services Ltd., 5226 – 46 Street, Olds, Alberta. Phone: 403.507.8610

• Date : 2025-08-15
• Location : (Olds) LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED (Red Deer/Blackfalds/Eckville) www.ParklandFuneralHome.com & (Innisfail/Olds/Didsbury/Sundre) www.HeartlandFuneralServices.com