With loving remembrance of a remarkable life, we announce the passing of Alexander (Alex) Shaw Cathcart on Thursday, November 13, 2025, in Calgary, Alberta. He left us peacefully, surrounded by love, after a long and full life marked by curiosity, loyalty, and quiet strength.

Born on June 11, 1934, in Paisley, Scotland, Alex cherished his Scottish roots throughout his life. The values and traditions of his early years shaped his character and remained a constant source of pride. As a teenager, Alex immigrated with his family to Canada, settling in Belleville, Ontario, where he embraced his new home while never losing his deep connection to Scotland.

On May 20, 1960, Alex married Elaine (Barbara) Ilsley, beginning a partnership built on mutual respect, adventure, and unwavering devotion. Their life together took them from Regina to Calgary, and eventually around the world. Together, they raised three children, creating a warm and welcoming home in Chinook Park, Calgary and spending cherished summers at the family cabin on Gull Lake, always with a loyal basset hound or two at their side.

Alex graduated with an Honours Degree in Science from Queen’s University in 1959. He launched his career as a geologist with Texaco in Regina, later moving to Calgary as his responsibilities grew. A talented scientist with a natural gift for leadership, Alex rose to executive roles in the oil and gas industry. His work took him across the globe, including Egypt, Israel, Australia, and Colombia, before finishing his career in Santa Maria, California, where he and Elaine made lifelong friends and embraced a vibrant chapter of their retirement.

Alex was known for his kindness, patience, and gentle humour. He was an easygoing father and grandfather who took joy in simple moments—sharing stories, painting, listening to music, or quietly observing the world with thoughtful appreciation. His curiosity never faded, and he always had a fresh stack of newspapers at hand to keep current. His love for family remained constant and steady.

Alex was predeceased by his wife Elaine, daughter Jocelyn, parents Thomas and Agnes, and brothers Tom and Jim. He will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his sons Duncan (Allyson) and Neil (Sharon); his grandchildren William (Daria), Jacob, Shaw, Ava, Sarah, Heather, and Aiden; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends across Canada and abroad.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Alex’s caregivers for their compassion and dedication, including the teams at Foothills Hospital and the Bethany Care Centre in Cochrane.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Alex’s memory may be made to the Cochrane Humane Society, reflecting his lifelong fondness for animals.

Details regarding a Celebration of Alex’s Life will be shared once arrangements are finalized.