1949 ~ John Paul Ferguson ~ 2026 "Funeral Mass will be Celebrated on Wednesday, October 7, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 5508 - 48a Avenue, Red Deer, Alberta. In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations directly to the Red Deer Food bank at https://www.reddeerfoodbank.com/"

It is with profound sadness that the family of John Paul Ferguson announces his passing on Tuesday, September 15, 2026 in Red Deer, Alberta, at the age of 77 years.

John was predeceased by his son Geoffrey Scott, his parents John and Jean Ferguson, his older brother Jim, his younger brother Brian, and his nephew Andrew James. John is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 57 years, Eileen and his beloved children Jeremy and Jill (Clint). He will be deeply missed by his siblings: Peter (Beatrice), Mary, Maxine and his many nieces and nephews.

John lived a life with a deep commitment to the people and places he loved. Those who knew him will remember a man who showed up fully, spoke with conviction, and lived with a spirit that inspired others to do the same.

John made extraordinary contributions to Red Deer through his leadership as manager of the Downtown Business Association in the 90’s and involvement in the community. He was someone who saw possibility where others saw only challenges. One if his proudest achievements was the development of Red Deer’s Downtown Ghost Project, which has now become one of the largest life-size bronze sculpture collections in Canada.

In 1992, he received the Commemorative Medal for the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada in recognition of his significant contribution to his compatriots, his community, and Canada. That honor reflected what so many already knew, which was that John gave generously of his talent, his time, and his heart.

Later John began his own business Ferguson & Company, custom designing many homes and businesses throughout Red Deer. From his own home, to the renovation of Sacred Heart Church, to the colorful facades in Red Deer Hospital’s pediatric wing, his designs brought beauty and character to the places where people lived, worked, worshipped, and healed.

John had a passion for aviation. He was a founder of the CARFF Club in 1977 and remained an active member until the day he passed. He could often be found out at the flying field enjoying every aspect of the hobby whether it be building, flying, competing or teaching. His greatest joy however, was flying with his son. He was an incredible artist, and his love of aviation could even be seen here in the paintings he proudly completed for the Red Deer International Air Show, as well as for the RCMP.

John loved playing his guitars with family and friends and served many years with the music ministry at Sacred Heart Church. In those moments, he shared more than notes and melodies. He shared peace, devotion, and a sense of belonging.

Above all, John cherished his family most. He knew that success means little without the people who share it with you. His family was his center, his joy, and his greatest source of pride.

John Paul Ferguson leaves behind a legacy that can be seen in the buildings he helped create, art he inspired, organizations he strengthened, and the countless lives he touched along the way. His story is a reminder that one person, when guided by purpose and love, can help shape a community and leave it better than they found it. John did not merely exist in the world, he made his mark upon it and will be forever remembered with gratitude, admiration, and love.

Funeral Mass will be Celebrated on Wednesday, October 7, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 5508 – 48a Avenue, Red Deer, Alberta. In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations directly to the Red Deer Food bank at https://www.reddeerfoodbank.com/