John Adair Colborne

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Adair Colborne, who passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at the age of 76 years.

John lived a full and vibrant life marked by service, devotion, and deep love. A proud veteran of the Canadian Air Force, John’s journey began when he joined the military as a young man, filled with purpose and promise. It was during these formative years, stationed in St. Hubert, Quebec, that he met the love of his life, Marlene, who was then in basic training. Their meeting sparked a lifelong love story that echoed the romance and resilience of their favourite film, An Officer and a Gentleman—a movie that became a treasured symbol of their bond, both having served their country and found each other in uniform.

After retiring from the Air Force, John continued his commitment to safety and service through a second career in security, before finally settling into a well-earned retirement.

John had a deep appreciation for music and entertainment. He had a particular fondness for country music, often found singing along to Taylor Swift, though his all-time favourite was ABBA, whose music brought him great joy. He was also an avid fan of epic stories, eagerly immersing himself in the worlds of Game of Thrones and Harry Potter.

A passionate sports enthusiast, John followed baseball, football, and hockey with enthusiasm. He cheered for the Toronto Blue Jays, supported the Calgary Flames and Stampeders, but his heart belonged to the NFL—especially the Green Bay Packers, his favourite team.

John will be lovingly remembered by his 3 children, John Colborne, Richard Colborne, Chris (Kim); grandchildren, Dakota Colborne, Devon Colborne, Nevaeh Colborne; 1 great-grandchild, Ember Aurora Jacklyn Colborne; brothers, Charles Colborne of Calgary, and Alan (Cheryle) Colborne, of Swift Current, Saskatchewan; Terry-Ann Duitman and Tracey Gallant both of Calgary; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

He was predeceased by his wife Marlene Colborne (nee Povey); parents, Don and Betty Colborne; brother-in-law, Floyd Martin.