July 22, 1926 – July 18, 2021
Just four days shy of his 95th birthday, Willy passed away in Calgary, Alberta on Sunday, July 18, 2021.
Willy was born in Järve, Estonia on July 22, 1926 to Abel and Elvine Kaljuvee (Potivar). He had fond memories growing up on the farm, exploring the countryside and loved working with his hands. After the Second World War, he immigrated to Canada and started a new life with the help of his uncle, John Potivar. He attended Olds College from 1950-52 and after graduating worked in construction in Calgary.
Willy started his own company, Kalvee Construction in 1956, framing and building houses until his retirement in 1982. Retirement didn’t slow him down and he immediately went to work building a swimming pool addition to his home that was enjoyed by many! Willy was very independent and he continued to live in the home he built in 1967. Special moments and fond memories captured on film were prominently displayed throughout his home which brought him great happiness and joy. He travelled extensively throughout the world and enjoyed cruising the seas with his second wife Vaike who predeceased him in 2006. But above all, his trips back to Estonia to visit his siblings and their families were the ones he truly cherished.
He is survived by three children from his first marriage to Ruth: John Kalvee of Calgary, Debbie Kalvee of St. Catherines, Ontario, and Betty Kalvee of Vancouver, BC. Willy is also survived by five grandchildren: Jason, Amanda, Danielle, William, and Patrick, three great-grandchildren (Robert, Ayala, Ella) and numerous relatives in Estonia.
He was predeceased by brothers, Lembit and Endel, and sisters, Helju and Maimu. Miss you Dad… forever in our hearts….. Rest In Peace. Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded to the family, via the website: www.fostersgardenchapel.ca
