John Edgar Semple

John Edgar Semple, age 88, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 6, 2024 in Calgary, Alberta. John was born on September 16, 1936 in London, England. Growing up during WWII presented many challenges, some of which shaped the rest of John’s life. He served two years in the Royal Air Force as a nurse in an air ambulance, often going into dangerous situations to retrieve and treat injured soldiers. In his stoic fashion, John rarely spoke of these heroic events. Next, John completed the first of his numerous degrees at Physiotherapy College, where he met the love of his life and wife of 62 years, Janet. Together, John and Janet moved to Canada and raised their children, Anne (Glenn) and Andrew (Jennifer). Eventually, John became the proud grandfather of four grandchildren, Megan, Erin, Declan, and Makinley.

John’s incredibly accomplished career included 25 years as a Professor of Rehab Medicine at the University of Alberta, where he retired as Professor Emeritus. He tirelessly gave back to his profession, authoring numerous publications, taking part in setting up the Aids to Daily Living Program still used by the Province of Alberta today, helping launch the College of Physiotherapists in Alberta, and assisting other countries around the world in setting up their own physio programs.

When John retired, he and Janet moved out to White Rock, BC, where they spent the next 30 years, moving only three years ago to Calgary to be closer to family. An avid golfer, John spent his post retirement years perfecting his game. The most important parts of his game were the walk and the companionship, and he marked every single one of his golf balls with a happy face. A wise man, indeed.

He was a kind, generous man with an impish sense of humour, a love of education and a keen sense of justice. In typical John fashion, he requested that no service be held. He never wanted anyone to make a fuss, instead he would want you to hug your loved ones.

In lieu of flowers, John’s family asks that you donate to the Veteran’s Food Bank (https://veteransfoodbankalberta.ca/donate), or to a charity of your choice.