It is with deep sadness, and with gratitude for a life well lived, that we announce the passing of Hillar Alkok on June 4, 2026 in Calgary, Alberta, at the age of 71.

Hillar was born on September 24, 1954, in Toronto, Ontario, to Arnold and Sinaida Alkok. He grew up alongside his sister, Lillian, where he developed a lifelong love of sports, a quick sense of humour, and a deep belief in treating others with kindness and respect.

Just one year after marrying the love of his life, Anne, a seemingly ordinary youth camp experience sparked a growing passion for God that would shape the rest of his life. Following that calling, Hillar and Anne made the bold decision to sell their home, move to Dallas and pursue theological studies.

Over the decades that followed, Hillar faithfully served in a variety of ministry leadership roles in Canada and Europe. He led churches, guided congregations through periods of healing and renewal, and devoted himself to helping others grow in faith.

Alongside his pastoral ministry, Hillar developed a deep commitment to chaplaincy. He became a passionate advocate for police officers, first responders, and the vital role chaplains play in supporting them. His work took him across Canada, Estonia, and Ukraine, where he provided care, training, and leadership to those serving on the front lines of their communities. Among his many experiences, he participated in police debriefings following the Yonge Street Van Attack in Toronto, responded after the death of Constable Andrew Hong, and helped train some of Ukraine's first police chaplains.

Hillar's dedication to service never diminished. After moving to Calgary in 2022, he remained active with the Canadian Police Chaplains Association, Marketplace Chaplains, Boots on the Ground Alberta, Alpha, and DaySpace at Journey Church. Retirement, as many who knew him would attest, was never really part of his plan.
Away from ministry, Hillar loved sports of every kind. He was an enthusiastic hockey goalie who continued playing until he was 60, earning awards and collecting stories that he delighted in sharing. Whether on the ice, on the tennis court, or around the dinner table, his sense of humour was never far away.

More than his accomplishments, Hillar will be remembered for who he was. He was a man of faith, integrity, generosity, and genuine curiosity about people. He loved hearing others' stories and could always be counted on to share one of his own. He was confident without being pretentious, compassionate without seeking recognition, and known for his steady presence, encouragement, and memorable dad jokes.

His greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who loved his family deeply and was immensely proud of each of them.

Hillar is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Anne; his sister, Lillian Lennox (spouse Robert Lennox); his children, Steven Alkok (spouse Samantha Alkok), David Alkok (spouse Dayna Alkok), and Kristina Alkok; his granddaughter Emelia; as well as many extended family members, friends, colleagues, and those whose lives were touched by his ministry and friendship.

He was predeceased by his parents, Arnold and Sinaida Alkok.

Hillar's life was marked by faith, service, adventure, sports, friendship, and an unwavering commitment to others. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

A funeral service will be held on Friday June 12, 2026 at Journey Church, 10307 Eamon Rd NW, Calgary, AB. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. a York Funeral Centre, 160 Beecroft Road, North York, Ontario.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Rosedale Hospice at hospicecalgary.ca.

"For everything there is a season." Those words, which Hillar so often quoted, reflected his confidence in God's faithfulness throughout every stage of life. We take comfort in that same hope as we remember him and look forward to seeing him again.