It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Edward S. Pipella Q.C., a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, father-in-law, uncle, brother and friend. Ed was born in Lamont, Alberta where he was the second youngest of 10 children. He was privileged to attend university, first graduating from the University of Alberta with a BA in Economics in 1954, and then a Bachelor of Laws from the University of British Columbia in 1957.
Ed was proud of his service in the Royal Canadian Air Force RCAF (Aux) 30 Wing 403 Squadron between 1957 and 1964 where he achieved the rank of Flight Lieutenant and served as Legal Officer.
Ed was a talented sportsman, and as a young man, he played hockey, baseball and football. Throughout his life, he pursued health and fitness with a passion. Ed was a dedicated member of the YMCA, becoming a ‘no-nonsense’ instructor at one time, and he was an avid runner. Ed commenced his 56-year legal career as a general practitioner, working on family matters, real estate and criminal law. During his career, he set several legal precedents and inspired many lawyers to fight for justice with integrity, respect and diplomacy. His cases were argued before the Alberta Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court of Canada.
Since the 1970’s, Ed devoted his working life to personal injury litigation, fighting to ensure that victims of serious injuries and wrongful death received fair compensation. His passion and enthusiasm shared over the years with his family was inspirational, setting the tone for two of his three daughters to follow in his footsteps and continue his legacy.
Ed’s pride and joy was his family. With his young children in tow, Ed started the tradition of spending Christmas in Hawaii, where the family enjoyed new adventures and quality time. He simply loved being surrounded by his loved ones at home, or on their many trips together. Also dear to his heart, were his five grandchildren: Maclean, Lochlyn, Rhyd, Bryn and Tyler, each of whom carry a piece of his athleticism, musical talent and dramatic flair. In his later years, his greatest joy was watching his grandkids on the stage, field and rink where he was a very “biased” fan.
Ed was a true philanthropist, supporting many causes in Calgary and Southern Alberta. Ed is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Lucille. He will be deeply missed by Lucille, his three daughters and their families: Sloan (Alec), Tara (Iestyn), and Kimber (Robin). Ed is also survived by his sister, June, his sisters-in-law, Norma (Wes) and Ella, and a number of nieces and nephews who cherished their Uncle Ed.
A Celebration of Ed’s Life for all family and friends was held on Saturday, November 8, 2014 at the Calgary Golf and Country Club.
Memorial tributes may be made to one of the many causes Ed contributed to over his lifetime:
The YMCA – Strong Kids Campaign
Spinal Cord Injury Alberta, formerly the Canadian Paraplegic Association (CPA)