On December 26, 2024, the University Hospital Foundation and the Edmonton community lost a true champion of health and philanthropy with the passing of Dr. Dianne Kipnes. Her remarkable legacy, alongside her husband Irving Kipnes, has left an indelible mark on healthcare in Edmonton and beyond.

For nearly three decades, Dianne and Irv Kipnes dedicated themselves to advancing healthcare and improving the lives of countless individuals through their generosity, vision and tireless commitment. Their philanthropic journey began with a gift to the University of Alberta Hospital and grew to encompass support for every major fundraising campaign undertaken by the Foundation. These included pivotal projects such as the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute, the Campaign for Prostate Health and the transformative $70 million Brain Centre Campaign.

Dr. Kipnes, a retired clinical psychologist, approached her philanthropic endeavors with the same compassion and determination that defined her professional career. Her leadership was instrumental in establishing the Dianne and Irving Kipnes Chair in Lymphatic Disorders and the Alberta Lymphedema Network, bringing much-needed public and academic awareness to a debilitating condition. Her efforts have not only secured millions of dollars in research funding but have also given hope to those affected by lymphatic disorders, paving the way for innovative treatments and one day — a cure.

Dianne spent her life pursuing learning and higher education. As the first in her family to attend university, she inspired others, including her sisters, to follow suit. She earned a master’s degree in social work from McGill University and a PhD in clinical psychology from Fielding Graduate University, all while working as a therapist in the innovative Psychiatric Walk-In Clinic at the University of Alberta Hospital. Her passion for education and advancement in medical research translated into personal and professional achievements that continue to benefit many today.

Among their many contributions, the Kipnes’ support for the Northern Alberta Urology Centre stands as a testament to their vision and impact. Renamed the Dianne and Irving Kipnes Urology Centre in their honor, this world-leading facility inside the Kaye Edmonton Clinic has revolutionized care for patients with prostate and urological conditions. The Centre’s integrated and patient-centered approach has improved diagnosis, treatment and research, touching the lives of approximately 60,000 patients annually.

Reflecting on their contributions, Irving Kipnes once remarked, “This donation is a continuation of what we started umpteen years ago with our own health treatments and our own initiative to try and get things better.” Dianne, ever humble yet profoundly impactful, shared that her decision to support the Centre stemmed from her personal experiences as a patient, underscoring the deeply personal connection she felt to the causes she championed.

Dianne’s legacy is woven into the cultural fabric of Edmonton, and beyond. Alongside Irving, she extended her support to arts and community organizations, including a transformational donation to the National Arts Centre in Ottawa which supported the inclusion of the Kipnes Lantern as part of the Centre’s renovations. Her sense of compassion and civic responsibility enriched the lives of many. Having witnessed the poor living conditions of veterans, Dianne started fundraising for a new veteran’s home by hosting dinners at their home. With the support of many friends, the Kipnes Centre for Veterans was constructed. The combined contributions of Dr. Dianne Kipnes and her husband earned them the Order of Canada in 2018, a recognition befitting their inspiring generosity and unparalleled commitment to community betterment.

As we mourn the loss of Dianne Kipnes, we also celebrate a life dedicated to making the world a better place. Her legacy will continue to inspire and guide us as we carry forward the mission of improving healthcare and enhancing lives. To Dianne’s family, friends and all who were touched by her kindness, we extend our deepest condolences and gratitude for sharing her extraordinary spirit with us.

Dr. Dianne Kipnes will forever be remembered not only as a visionary philanthropist but as a compassionate individual whose life’s work has left an enduring impact on healthcare and humanity.