It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Heather Dutchak, a devoted and highly respected Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) with Alberta Health Services. Heather passed away peacefully on the evening of April 13, 2025, at Rockyview General Hospital in Calgary, Alberta, surrounded by her loved ones and colleagues who held her in the highest regard.
Heather Dutchak was more than a skilled and compassionate EMT—she was a beacon of strength, warmth, and resilience in the face of life’s most difficult moments. For over a decade, she served the people of Alberta with unwavering commitment, answering calls at all hours, responding to crises with calm precision, and offering comfort to countless patients and families in their most vulnerable times. Her career was defined by her selflessness and a profound desire to make a difference in her community.
Born and raised in Alberta, Heather developed a passion for emergency services early in life. She pursued that calling with drive and dedication, completing her EMT training and joining Alberta Health Services, where she quickly became known not only for her clinical expertise but also for her empathy and leadership. Colleagues remember her as a steady and compassionate presence in the back of the ambulance, always the first to crack a smile or lend a helping hand to someone in need—whether that was a patient or a fellow first responder.
Heather’s impact extended beyond the ambulance doors. She mentored new EMTs with patience and care, always eager to share her knowledge and lift others up. She was a fierce advocate for mental health support within emergency services, often using her own experiences to break the stigma and encourage her peers to seek help when needed.
To her family and friends, Heather was a pillar of love and light. She cherished time spent outdoors, enjoyed hiking in the Rockies, camping with loved ones, and capturing the beauty of nature through photography. She had a sharp wit, a big heart, and a laugh that could brighten even the darkest shifts. Above all, she was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and friend who brought joy and comfort to those lucky enough to know her.
Heather is survived by her parents, John and Linda Dutchak, her siblings Rachel (Chris) and Mark (Tanya), her nieces and nephews, and an extended network of friends, colleagues, and community members who are devastated by her loss but grateful for the legacy she leaves behind.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes – Park Memorial Chapel in Calgary. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Heather’s name to The Canadian Mental Health Association or Wounded Warriors Canada, both of which were close to her heart.
Heather Dutchak’s life was a testament to courage, compassion, and service. Her memory will continue to inspire all who knew her and remind us of the incredible difference one person can make in the world. She will be dearly missed but never forgotten.