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Calvin Wittmack died peacefully at his home, Chad's Place, in Red Deer, on Saturday, September 30, 2017, at age 59.

Calvin was pre-deceased by his loving parents Ernest and Jean Wittmack and his very special brother-in-law Mort Wyne.

He is survived by his brother Brian (Linda), sister Brenda, sister Bev (Robert), brother Bruce (Robin), nieces Kelly (Dave), Kristine (John), Jillian (Sean), Nicole (Doug) and Keaton, nephews Danny and Robert (Kyla), his great-niece Emily and his great-nephew Conor, each of whom utterly adored him.

Meeting every challenge put to him by his Down Syndrome, Calvin lived a truly exceptional life, a life that he loved, a life that was an example to all. His disability brought him gifts, and he exhibited them perfectly. He was gentle and kind and quick to comfort anyone he sensed needed it. If he was hurt in any way, his face expressed it: I don't understand this behaviour, it said. How could he? It was impossible for him to be hurtful. Or deceitful. Or untruthful. Or untrustworthy. Calvin was a rare person, a person who knew his values, and lived them unfailingly.

Calvin took great pride in being self-reliant and in his accomplishments, such as being a valued McDonald's employee for over 20 years, and receiving a Red Hat Award from the City of Red Deer, where scores knew him and loved him and watched out for him. But he also had lots of fun. He loved song and dance and watching and playing sports, and being with his many long-time friends. And every summer, he looked forward to his vacation at Camp He-Ho-Ha, which he attended for 40 consecutive years!

Above all, though, he treasured every minute spent with his family. And the reverse was also true. Every family member agrees: one always felt infinitely better after spending time with Calvin. Calvin lived a rich and meaningful life; he was deeply loved, and will be forever missed and remembered.

The family would like to thank the loving and dedicated staff at CARS (Central Alberta Residence Society), and in particular the staff at Chad's Place in Red Deer, each of whom contributed so much to Calvin's health and happiness. The family would also like to thank Calvin's physician, Dr. Tony Ford, whose caring and compassion truly made a difference.

A celebration of Calvin's life will be held at a later date.

Donations to Camp He-Ho-Ha or CARS in Calvin's name would be greatly appreciated. (Camp Health, Hope and Happiness: camphehoha.com; CARS: carsrd.org)