We Remember

CRIPPEN, Elwin Alexander

December 30, 1939 — May 17, 2025

The ever kind and caring, Elwin Alexander Crippen slipped away peacefully on May 17, 2025, in Kelowna, BC, with his family by his side – as he’d have preferred – with no fuss.

Born in Saskatchewan on December 30, 1939, to the late Melvin and Viola Crippen, life wasn’t always easy, but Elwin had the kind of prairie common sense that made it all seem manageable. He curled in his younger years, which kept him out of trouble and taught him patience, which he was known for throughout his life. He went on to serve in the Signal Corps for 3 years and then in various technology positions including Nortel for 27 years.  While he was posted to Kingston, Ontario, he met Carolyn, the woman who’d keep him organized, grounded, and well-loved for the next several decades.

Elwin and Carolyn made their home in Ottawa, ON, where they adopted and raised their two kids, Craig (Charlene) and Charlotte (Colin Neufeld), and eventually welcomed grandchildren, Amelie and Joren. Along the way, Elwin worked for Nortel and Spar Aerospace, quietly helping to hold up Canadian tech and telecommunication behind the scenes.

After retiring in his early 50s, Elwin did the most amazing thing: he went back to school and earned his Bachelor’s Degree. Most men his age were joining coffee klatches or perfecting lawn care. Elwin hit the books. A few years later, they settled in Winnipeg, MB while Carolyn worked as superintendent of a school district and then as a professor in the department of education at the University of Manitoba.

They then moved to Victoria, where Elwin found his groove volunteering for the Commissionaires. He spent his time minding museums and helping out at cultural events, with just enough authority to wear a badge, but not so much that it ruined his day.

After Carolyn passed in 2020, Elwin made a final move to Kelowna, BC in late 2024 to be closer to his grandchildren. He didn’t get to be here long, but he liked the sunshine and being close to family.

He leaves behind his children, grandchildren, and his siblings: Clark, Ken, and Heather – along with a lifetime of stories best told over a cup of coffee and a slice of pie.

A private family service will take place to honour Elwin. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Victoria Friends group.

Elwin wasn’t loud about it, but he lived a good life. The kind that leaves things just a little better than he found them.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area call “Condolences”.

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Victoria Friends group Link: viquakers.ca/contribute

 


 


Condolences

  • Pashta MaryMoon says:
    May 22, 2025 at 8:10 pm

    Al was a long-time member of our Quaker Meeting, as was his wife, Carolyn. When COVID moved our Sunday Meetings online, he worshipped with us on zoom until he moved to Kelowna shortly before he died. We will deeply miss him. Fare Thee Well, Al!

    Reply
  • Kali Lee says:
    May 22, 2025 at 8:17 pm

    I’m sorry to hear of the passing of Uncle Elwin. I always enjoyed when they came to visit us.

    Reply
  • Denise Margarita Ayling says:
    May 23, 2025 at 8:36 am

    Deepest condolences to the family. Myself and my husband had the pleasure of getting to know Al and his lovely bride (Carolyn). Both became very good friends. Peace and Love, Denise and Neil Edwards

    Reply

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