Carl Joseph Golanowski
October 19, 1939 – October 10, 2026
Carl Joseph Golanowski passed away peacefully at the age of 86 on October 10, 2026.
Carl was born in Milden, Saskatchewan to Eugenia and Joseph Golanowski. Growing up in rural Saskatchewan rooted the prairies deep in his heart.
His younger years in Loverna, Saskatchewan were rich with memories. His working life began at 13, helping out at the community butcher shop and gas station. A sharp dresser with a Buddy Holly look (only much better looking) and a natural on the dance floor, he knew how to make an impression at the community hall Saturday night dances.
A lover of the rodeo at an early age, he became a cowboy at heart. He also enjoyed the sports of that era, listening to Hockey Night in Canada on the radio and curling on a team at the local rink. His prairie upbringing connected Carl to the land. Both a hunter and fisherman, Carl would later own his own fishing charter in Prince Rupert, BC. His sports interests would later extend to being an avid fan of the CFL (Go, Riders!), a keen follower of professional golf, and a devoted fan of car racing.
Carl grew up around trains watching his father and older brothers forge careers on the railway. For awhile, Carl would also try his hand as a railway agent-operator and was proud of his Morse code skills. But Carl loved cars most and when a business venture opportunity arose, he took his family to Calgary. His love of cars would drive his career forward, taking him from gas station ownership to car sales and eventually into the driver's seat as a sought-after sales manager at several dealerships around the city.
His talent for sales earned him plenty of accolades and perks, including trips around the world and a set of Ping golf clubs that were strictly off-limits (“Nobody touches those!”). Still, nothing pleased him more than being a household name in Calgary when it came to a smokin’ good deal.
During the rich years of the seventies, Carl enjoyed the local lifestyle in Calgary. He discovered horse racing and even bought his own racehorse. He invested in property and was fond of saying “never say whoa in a mud hole” especially when the economy hit a downturn. A member of The Gyro Club, Rotary Club, and Ducks Unlimited, he also gave back to the community as an established businessman and philanthropist.
Providing for his family had always been a priority for Carl, but the greatest gift he ever gave them was his sobriety. In 2010, he joined Alcoholics Anonymous, where he found guidance and friendship through his dear friend and mentor, Pat R. His sobriety opened the door to reconnecting with his family and allowed relationships to heal and flourish. We will be forever grateful for the precious gift of that time together.
We would also like to acknowledge Carl’s special Bow View Manor family in Calgary and express our heartfelt gratitude for the care, kindness, and friendship they shared with him over the years. Family is wherever we find love, belonging, and connection.
Beyond all the adventures and stories was a man who meant so much to so many, as a father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, son, and friend. He will be deeply missed.
Carl was predeceased by his brothers Alex and Lyle, his sister Iris and her husband, Ken.
He is survived by his spouse Jeanne (nee Materi); his children Carla Belanger (Ryan), Keith Golanowski (Rosa) and Holly Golanowski (Alex); his grandchildren Shane Belanger (Jennae), Justin Golanowski (Lauren), Danielle Golanowski, Maxwell Nealon (Amanda), Spencer Belanger (Lukas), Kelsey Nealon (Gabrielle), Quinn Adams, and Raine Belanger (Gordon); great grandchildren Alessia and Luka Vucic; sister-in-laws Lenora Golanowski and Margaret Golanowski; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Next summer, Carl will be laid to rest in Loverna, Saskatchewan, returning to the prairie roots that remained forever in his heart. Family and friends will gather once more to share memories and celebrate a life well lived.
Memorials or donations may be made to Ducks Unlimited.
https://www.ducks.ca/how-to-help/donation-options/gift-ideas/