John Martin Erk

John Martin Erk, 44, passed away Tuesday October 28, 2025 in Calgary, Alberta. He leaves behind his son Carsen, his parents Marianne (Maria) Theresa Erk (nee Grumbir) and Peter, his grandmother Elisabeth, his aunt Liz Wilman Erk and uncles Otto Hebel and Richard Grumbir (wife Lauren), stepson Preston, and cousins Justin Grumbir, Sylvia Hebel, Ronald Hebel, and Ken Witman. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Martin Grumbir and Peter Erk Sr and his Aunt Katherine Hebel.

John was born February 6, 1981 in Montreal and later moved to Calgary at the age of 11. While Montreal was always in his thoughts, he considered Calgary home and at a higher level he was a true lover of Canada and all that she represents. It was in Calgary where he made several lifelong friends, completed a Computer Science degree at University of Calgary in 2004, and shortly after graduating (2007) he and his parents purchased the Dog and Duck Pub -John's second home.

His mother taught him the value of hard work, benefits of frugality, love of all things Montreal, and, let's face it, a lead foot. His father taught him patience and a kind heart. 

John met Marie Beaudry in 2008 when she captivated his heart forever. In John's heart she was his lifetime partner. In 2010 they gave birth to Carsen. Although they separated, they both had a strong connection working together as they shared the responsibility of raising Carsen into the fine young man he is becoming. 

John was an avid downhill skier and loved putting on a party at his Dog and Duck Pub where he made several friends with the regulars. 

We cannot remember John without recalling his love of dogs. He leaves behind Bentley, Luna and Ginger who still miss him and think he will come home every-time they hear someone at the door. 

John will be forever loved and missed by us all. 

Celebration of life (date to be determined) at the Dog and Duck Pub (5340 2 Street SW). 

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