John MacAulay

John MacAulay passed away peacefully in Banff on March 28, 2026.

He was born on July 25, 1954, in Banff to Karin (née Wallensteen) and Jack MacAulay. John had an adventurous spirit, and even as he settled into a quiet life over more recent years, the mischievous twinkle in his eyes and his contagious laugh were ever-present. His nephews and nieces looked forward to drinking tea and hearing his stories of working in Banff as a carpenter for Parks Canada, the time he spent in Australia and New Zealand as a young man, and fighting forest fires in Kananaskis country – a job he was incredibly proud of.

He loved music and art. His impressive guitar collection was proof of that. His art collection even more so. John’s Pincher Creek home was a gallery of MacAulay family history, music, and Bow Valley art. There was always a treasure to be discovered. Among those treasures was the library of his older brother Herb, who had looked out for John throughout his life. Keeping the library safe was John's devoted way of looking out for him in return; holding it in careful trust until it finally found its way home.

John had recently returned to Banff after a decade of living in Pincher Creek, and was happy to be back.

He is survived by his siblings Karen, Shelley, and Jodi (Grant), nieces and nephews Kelsey, Daniel (Leslie), and Currie (Dani), a large extended family of MacAulays and Wallensteens, and a close circle of life-long friends. He was predeceased by his parents, his brother Herb, and sister Julie-Ann.

At John’s request, there will be no funeral. If desired, charitable donations can be made to a local youth music or art program.

We have no doubt you are soaring with the eagles now, John.