It is with deep sorrow and profound grief that we announce the passing of Heather Dutchak, a dedicated 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. She was 38 years old.
Heather Dutchak 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, her unmatched dedication, and a profound desire to make a difference in her community.
A Lifelong Commitment to Service
Born and raised in the picturesque province of Alberta, Heather developed a passion for emergency services from a young age. She was always drawn to the idea of helping others during times of crisis, a calling that would shape the trajectory of her life. Growing up in a tight-knit community, she understood the importance of compassion, empathy, and service. Her parents, Rachel (Chris) and Mark (Tanya), instilled in her the values of hard work, kindness, and integrity—principles that Heather carried with her throughout her entire career.
After completing her schooling, Heather set her sights on a career in emergency medical services. She began her journey by enrolling in an EMT training program, where she demonstrated not only her academic prowess but also her natural ability to handle high-pressure situations. It was clear from the beginning that Heather was no ordinary trainee—her compassion and care for others went beyond the classroom and into her every action, whether during training simulations or real-life emergencies.
Heather’s commitment to helping others was evident from her very first days working with Alberta Health Services. Over the years, she became an indispensable part of the EMS community in Calgary and the surrounding areas. Known for her calm demeanor, quick thinking, and exceptional clinical skills, Heather was always the first to answer a call, the first to comfort a patient, and the first to lend a helping hand to her fellow first responders.
She quickly earned the respect and admiration of her colleagues, who often described her as a steady, compassionate presence in the back of the ambulance. Whether responding to a car accident, a medical emergency, or a crisis of any nature, Heather’s focus was always on the well-being of those around her. She was often the one to crack a smile or offer words of encouragement in the most challenging circumstances. It was her ability to remain calm and composed, even under intense pressure, that made her a standout in her field.
A Mentor and Advocate for Mental Health Support
Beyond her remarkable skills as an EMT, Heather was a mentor to countless new recruits who joined Alberta Health Services over the years. She took great pride in guiding and supporting others, always ready to share her knowledge, experience, and wisdom. Her patience and care made her an ideal mentor, and many of her colleagues considered her a guiding light in their own professional journeys.
Heather’s leadership extended beyond technical expertise. She was a fierce advocate for mental health support within emergency services, an issue she was deeply passionate about. Having witnessed firsthand the toll that high-stress situations can take on the mental health of first responders, Heather made it her mission to break the stigma surrounding mental health in the EMS community. She encouraged her colleagues to prioritize self-care and to seek support when they needed it, often sharing her own experiences with seeking help and supporting others in doing the same. Her efforts in this area have left an indelible mark on the EMS community in Alberta and will continue to inspire future generations of first responders.
A Loving Family Member and Friend
To her family and friends, Heather was more than just a dedicated professional—she was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. Heather shared an unbreakable bond with her family, particularly with her siblings, John and Linda Dutchak. The Dutchak family was a pillar of support for Heather throughout her life, and their love and encouragement were instrumental in helping her achieve her dreams.
In addition to her immediate family, Heather is survived by her nieces and nephews, who adored her and cherished the time they spent together. Heather was especially close to her young nieces and nephews, always taking the time to teach them new things, share stories, and create lasting memories. Her playful spirit, infectious laughter, and genuine love for her family made her a treasured presence in their lives.
Heather’s friends, too, were an important part of her world. Known for her sharp wit, sense of humor, and kind heart, Heather was the type of person who could brighten even the darkest of days. Whether it was sharing a quiet evening around the campfire, hiking in the majestic Rocky Mountains, or enjoying a simple afternoon of photography, Heather was someone who brought people together. Her love for nature and the outdoors was evident in the many photos she took of the stunning landscapes that surrounded her. It was through her lens that she captured the beauty of the world and shared it with others.
Her friends remember her as someone who always put others first, who was willing to listen, to laugh, and to offer a helping hand when needed. Heather was a true friend, and her absence will be felt deeply by all who knew her.
A Legacy of Compassion and Dedication
As we mourn Heather Dutchak’s passing, we also celebrate the extraordinary legacy she leaves behind. Heather was not just an EMT—she was a mother figure, a mentor, a friend, and an inspiration to all who had the privilege of working with her. Her life was defined by her commitment to others, her passion for helping those in need, and her unshakable belief in the power of kindness and compassion.
Over the course of her career, Heather touched the lives of thousands of individuals. From patients who found comfort in her care, to fellow first responders who looked up to her as a leader, to the community members who admired her selfless dedication—Heather’s impact was felt far and wide. She was a constant source of support and encouragement to all those who worked alongside her, and her contributions to the field of emergency medical services will never be forgotten.
In addition to her clinical work, Heather was deeply involved in her community. She regularly volunteered with local organizations, offered her time and expertise to teach CPR and first aid courses, and worked to raise awareness about the importance of mental health support in emergency services. Heather’s passion for helping others extended beyond her professional role as an EMT—it was a core part of who she was as a person.
Her impact was not confined to the realm of emergency medical services alone. Heather was a beloved figure in her community, a trusted friend, and a shining example of what it means to live a life of service and compassion. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who follow in her footsteps and work to make the world a better, safer place for all.
Survived by Her Family, Colleagues, and Community
Heather Dutchak is survived by her parents, Rachel (Chris) and Mark (Tanya), her siblings, John and Linda Dutchak, her nieces and nephews, and an extended network of friends, colleagues, and community members who are devastated by her loss but grateful for the lasting impact she made. The Dutchak family, along with Heather’s EMS family, will forever cherish the memories they shared with her, and the love and light she brought to their lives will never be forgotten.
A public memorial service will be held in Calgary to celebrate Heather’s life and honor her legacy. Details of the service will be shared by her family and Alberta Health Services. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to mental health initiatives for first responders, a cause that Heather was deeply passionate about.
As we say goodbye to a true hero, we take comfort in knowing that Heather’s spirit and legacy will live on in the lives of all those she touched. Rest in peace, Heather Dutchak. Your selflessness, your compassion, and your unwavering commitment to others will never be forgotten.
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