Grant was born in Carnduff, Saskatchewan on June 3, 1928 to Frank and Margaret Abbott. He and his three brothers grew up in the family country store in Nottingham, Sask. We always felt that Grant grew up with his hand in the candy jar! He attended high school in Antler and Fertile Sask.
Grant obtained his B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Saskatchewan in 1951. He had a distinguished career with Imperial Oil followed by independent consulting on energy development through his company Calgary Synfuels. Grant participated on a task force to resolve flaring problems at the Sarnia Refinery, headed a group for the Cold Lake project, ran the first lead-free gasoline study in Canada and played a key role in the original development of the Syncrude project.
Survived by Jean, his wife of 62 years; and children Bill (Anne) of London, Ontario; Susan (Bruce) of Toronto; and Carter (Lenore) of Omaha, Nebraska. Brother to Bill (Frances) of Sarnia, and Frank (Phyllis) of Vancouver. Grandfather to Jaron, Eric, Breanne, Lauren, Brandon, Kelty, Jeff and Sean. Great-grandfather to six. Pre-deceased by his brother Dale (Arlene.)
An avid hiker, cross-country skier, lawn bowler, theater-goer and wine drinker, Grant was also active in the Esso Annuitants Club. He gave generously to charities and was active in The United Church of Canada. Grant volunteered with “Inn from the Cold” and supported efforts to help the less fortunate. Grant was a member of The Canadian Legion and raised money for “The Poppy Fund.” He and wife Jean traveled to 5 different continents, exploring many countries and cultures.
A Memorial Service will be held at Deer Park United Church, 77 Deerpoint Rd SE, Calgary on Monday, January 5, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. with reception to follow. If friends so desire, memorial donations in Grant’s memory may be made directly to the Salvation Army, 1731 – 29 St SW, Calgary, AB T3C 1M6.
The family wishes to thank the staff at Foothills hospital for their care and professionalism during his final illness.
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