The University Hospital Foundation is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dennis Erker, a remarkable philanthropist, volunteer leader and lifelong advocate for health transformation. For more than four decades, Dennis played an extraordinary role in shaping the future of health care in Alberta.
Dennis was a donor to the Foundation since the 1980s, but his impact extended far beyond financial support. He was unbelievably generous with his time, talent and influence, serving in leadership roles on multiple campaign cabinets and inspiring others to give boldly. Among his many contributions, Dennis was a driving force behind some of the Foundation’s most transformational initiatives.
During the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute Capital Campaign, Dennis served on the National Strategy Council and as Deputy Chair of the campaign cabinet. Working closely with fellow leaders, he helped champion the vision for the first heart institute built in Western Canada. The campaign went on to raise more than $47 million, tripling its original goal and forever changing cardiac care for patients across Alberta and beyond. In recognition of his personal generosity, a piece of artwork within the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute was named in his honour.
Dennis continued this legacy of leadership through the Brain Centre Campaign, serving on the campaign cabinet from 2015 to 2019. His commitment to advancing brain care was deeply personal. As a patient living with Parkinson’s Disease, Dennis understood firsthand the urgency of innovation and compassionate care. His transformational gift established the Dennis M. Erker Parkinson’s Innovation and Research Fund, supporting bold research and improved care for patients and families at the University of Alberta Hospital. The Dennis Erker Family Patient Waiting Room at the Kaye Edmonton Clinic stands as a lasting symbol of his compassion and belief in patient-centred care.
Over the years, Dennis supported every major Foundation campaign brought to the community, including initiatives in cardiac care, brain health, prostate health, medical education and the arts. He was also a devoted supporter of Festival of Trees, a member of the Gold Leaf Society and a valued advocate for the McMullen Gallery and hospital art collection.
Beyond the Foundation, Dennis was widely respected for his volunteer leadership and service to community, receiving numerous honours including the Alberta Order of Excellence and an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Alberta. Yet those who knew him best remember a man who was curious, generous, deeply committed to family and always eager to make a meaningful difference.
We are profoundly grateful for Dennis Erker’s vision, leadership and unwavering belief in what is possible when a community comes together in support of care. His legacy lives on through the patients whose lives have been improved, the research he helped advance and the countless people he inspired along the way.
Our heartfelt condolences are with his beloved family, and all who were fortunate to call Dennis a friend.
Thank you, Dennis. Your impact on health care in Alberta is truly immeasurable.
