Jason Maurice Sylvestre—known to absolutely everyone as Jay—passed away in Red Deer, Alberta, on March 15, 2026, at the age of 50. 

Born on June 12, 1975, in Ottawa, Ontario, Jay made his way to Alberta in the 1980s, where he quickly discovered mountains, wideopen skies, and the kind of freedom that suited him perfectly. He attended Henry Wise Wood High School in Calgary and went on to live a life powered by curiosity, adventure, and a knack for turning even ordinary days into stories worth retelling. 

Jay had a restless, adventurous spirit and a deep appreciation for squeezing every last drop out of life. He loved the mountains, long hikes, road trips, and any excuse to explore somewhere new. Planned trip? Great. Spontaneous detour? Even better. If there was a horizon, Jay wanted to see what was on the other side of it. 

His greatest joy, though, was sharing those adventures with his three children—Tristan, Morgan, and Dawson. Being their dad was his proudest role, and he filled it with enthusiasm, love, and a sense of fun that never faded. Even in the hardest moments, Jay stayed positive, upbeat, and joking right to the end. He had a gift for lifting spirits, often with a grin that said, “We’ve got this.” 

Jay valued experiences over possessions and friendships that lasted a lifetime. He had a way of making people feel included, welcome, and part of the story. His laugh, his quick wit, and his ability to find joy in the moment will be deeply missed by all who knew him. 

He is lovingly remembered by his mother, Elizabeth, and his stepfather, Brian Nelsen. He leaves behind his sister Tina (Guido) Stenske and her children Michaela (Kevin) Tourand, Anthony Stenske, and Amie, along with his grandnephew Theo. He is also survived by his brother Curtis Sylvestre and his children Paige and Lee; his brother Geoffrey Nielsen; his sister Brianne Nielsen; his motherinlaw Elaine Skiba; and his sisterinlaw Katie Kiss, her spouse Alejandro Gonzalez, and their daughters Alejandra, Mia, and Laila. 

A special mention goes to his lifelong friends—his chosen family—who stood by him through every adventure, every challenge, and every laugh. Your loyalty and love meant the world to him. 

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the ALS Society in Calgary for their support, and to the Red Deer Hospice for the exceptional care and compassion they provided. 

Jay’s life was one of movement, love, humour, and connection. Though his journey ended far too soon, his spirit lives on in every trail walked, every story shared, and every moment where someone chooses joy, curiosity, or a spontaneous adventure—just like he always did. 

• Date : 2026-03-16
• Location : Eventide Funeral Home