Kevin David Rothery

May 31, 1963 – August 1, 2023

After a courageous 22 month struggle with cancer, Kevin Rothery left us on August 1, 2023. In his last days Kevin was surrounded by his loving family and many friends, all of whom will miss him greatly.

Kevin was born in Calgary, Alberta on May 31, 1963 to David & Margaret Rothery (nee Brown). Kevin quickly showed his talent and love of performing when in 1978, at the age of 15, he joined the Young Canadians of the Calgary Stampede, and was an active member of the YCs until 1983. During that time Kevin appeared regularly in the Grandstand Show, travelled with them to perform in Toronto and Las Vegas, as well as appearing in many of the Young Canadian’s Dinner Theatre productions.

Kevin attended John G. Diefenbaker High School, graduating in 1981. Driven by a strong love of the performing arts, he then went on to study Acting and Theatre at the University of Calgary’s Department of Drama in 1982. He was also a part of The Dubbin Show from 1986 to 1988, touring with them to Malaysia for 5 months in 1987.

After leaving the U of C, Kevin embarked on a long and illustrious career as a professional actor, working extensively in Calgary, as well as across the country, from British Columbia to the Maritimes. He has been seen on virtually every stage in Calgary, and was an audience favourite at many theatre companies here, including Vertigo Theatre, Theatre Calgary, ATP, Lunchbox Theatre, Stage West, and many more. Across Canada he appeared at The Gateway (Richmond), Theatre Northwest (Prince George), The Citadel Theatre (Edmonton), The Globe (Regina), Mirvish Productions (Toronto), Festival Antigonish (Antigonish) & TNB (Fredericton), to name a few.

Kevin also made a name for himself in the world of film and television, appearing in many Films, TV movies, and television series. His commitment to his craft and ability to create rich, compelling characters, both on stage and screen, earned him admiration and respect from his colleagues and audiences alike.

Through his extensive career Kevin amassed a large network of friends across the country, all of whom will miss his incredible talent, generosity, wit, sense of humour, sparkling personality, unbridled laughter, and mostly his incredibly warm and giving heart. The flood of tributes to him after his passing was extraordinary, and is a testament to the incredible impact he had on so many people’s lives.

Kevin always called Calgary home, staying here to be close to his loving family, close knit group of friends, and Calgary’s theatre community. His love of his hometown was evident, and no matter where he travelled, he was always happy to return to his home, his family, and his loving and loyal dog Watson. At home Kevin loved nothing more than watching home renovation shows on HGTV, reading his countless home magazines, exploring new restaurants with his friends, and a good glass of French Rosé.

Kevin was predeceased by his parents David Edward Rothery (March 20, 2018) and Margaret Isabelle Rothery (April 25, 2023). He is survived by his sister Kim Sirr, and brother Blaine Rothery, as well as many cousins, relatives, and his many, many friends.

Kevin spent his last month at the Agapé Hospice, where he received extraordinary care provided by the truly incredible staff and volunteers, as well as endless support and visits from his siblings and Village of Friends. His passing leaves a void in all of our lives, and he will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, Kevin’s family asks that donations be made in his name to a local theatre company of your choice, cancer research, or the Agapé Hospice.

A Celebration of Kevin’s life will be held in Calgary at a later date this fall.

Arrangements entrusted to Flo Simpson, Funeral Director, Cochrane Country Funeral Home – cochrane@piersons.ca 403-932-1039