Kurt Theodore Kellan

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Kurt Kellan on Friday, July 26, 2024, at Victoria General Hospital ICU in Halifax, Nova Scotia with his loving wife Sarah by his side. 

Kurt is survived by his wife Sarah and stepson Oliver; son Ross, daughter Karen, sister Jayne, niece Erin and sister-in-law Jeri. He is predeceased by his father Ross, mother Dorras and brother Ross. 

Kurt was born and raised in Chicago and attended Indiana University where he studied with Philip Farkas. While at Indiana, Kurt was Principal Horn with the Indiana University Philharmonic and Wind Ensemble. He was also in the Marching Band and Basketball Pep Band, because he always had a great seat for all the games! After graduating from Indiana, Kurt performed for the pit orchestras of the Joffrey Ballet, New York City Ballet, American Theatre Ballet and the Lyric Opera of Chicago. In 1973 he was awarded the position of Second Horn with the Milwaukee Symphony and in 1976 became Principal Horn with the Regina Symphony. In 1979, Kurt moved to Calgary where he held the position of Principal Horn with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra until June 2000. 

Kurt had a passion for teaching and was always in demand as a music teacher. In 2000, he joined the University of Victoria's School of Music as a professor. Kurt retired in the spring of 2022 and then held the title of Professor Emeritus. 

Upon his retirement, Kurt enjoyed the good life in Charlottetown, PEI. He loved cooking, spending time with his four beloved Keeshonden and enjoyed many a lobster supper. True to his Chicago roots, Kurt was a devout (and long-suffering) Cubs fan. We promise to keep the faith. Go Cubs! 

Resting at Belvedere Funeral Home. No service by request. 

Donations may be made in Kurt’s memory to The University of Victoria School of Music.