Obituary of Joshua James Shanks

January 11, 2006 – Calgary, Alberta

April 21, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

It is with broken hearts that we announce that Joshua Shanks of Calgary, AB,  passed away on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at the age of 18 years.

Joshua was born in Calgary, AB, on January 11, 2006.

Josh was an elite athlete who excelled in hockey and baseball. He started out as a member of the Bow Valley Flames Hockey Association as a Timbit player and remained with them until he became a member of the Calgary Buffalo Hockey Association. Josh played baseball with Cal East, Fish Creek, and then Babe Ruth.  As a member of his Babe Ruth team, he represented Canada at the Babe Ruth World Series in Westfield, Massachusetts. His achievements were recognized when he was named CTV’s Athlete of the Week.

Josh loved the time he spent with his Grampa Tony on the motocross tracks and skiing. One of his most memorable experiences was a family vacation to Costa Rica.

He will be most remembered for his kind heart and his love of family and friends. As a friend said, “He was a gentle giant.”

Joshua is survived by his mom Kelsey Coulson, nana Pamela Singletary, grampa Tony Shanks, uncle Matt Coulson, aunt Raena, cousins, Parker and Brynlee; great-uncle and great-aunt, Robert and Tannis Singletary; and extended family.

Joshua was predeceased by his father Shane Shanks, best friend and Grampy Allan Coulson, great-grandparents, Bill and Gerry Singletary; Ted and Winnie Shanks; and his great-uncle Jim Singletary.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Joshua’s family here.

In living memory of Joshua Shanks, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Deerfoot South, 12281 – 40th Street SE, Calgary, AB T2Z 4E6, Telephone: 403-203-0525.