Dr. Ian Oates

October 17, 1936 - September 3, 2022
September 15, 2022 9 Condolences Print Obituary Send Flowers

Dr. Ian Oates (B.A., M.B., B. Chir (Cantab), D.M.R.D., F.R.C.P.(C))

Ian Oates was born in Blackburn, England to Bessie and John Edmund Oates on October 17, 1936. He forwent a career in the family’s manufacturing business, Harry Oates & Sons Healds and Reeds, to pursue medicine, obtaining a B.A. and M.B. (Cambridge University), D.M.R.D. (Liverpool University), C.R.C.P. and F.R.C.P.C. in diagnostic radiology (Edmonton). He trained in surgery, general medicine, orthopedics, and trauma in Warwick, London, Coventry and Rugby before embracing diagnostic radiology in Liverpool and Edmonton. He was Head of the Division of Diagnostic Ultrasound at the Royal Alexandra Hospital, and an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Alberta, prefacing his lectures with magic tricks to engage the medical students’ attention. He spearheaded Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation to treat vulnerable infants. Ian continued working well into his 70s, providing his expertise in ultrasound and breast cancer screening to MIC Medical Imaging, Insight Medical Imaging, and Cross Cancer Institute.

Outside medicine, Ian pursued unique interests including magic, piano, flute, drums, reading, gardening, and travelling. Ian was an accomplished scratch golfer, devoting countless hours enjoying his favorite pastime at the Derrick Golf and Winter Club.

The epitome of an English gentleman, Ian will be greatly missed for his polite, calm and kind demeanor.  He leaves his devoted wife, Gloria, and daughters, Rachel and Kirsten.

A private service will be held. In lieu of tributes, consider donations to Hope Mission or Mustard Seed. 

  1. It is with great sadness that I must say goodbye to Dr. Ian Oates. He was in every sense of the word a true gentleman. He was intelligent, articulate, kind and generous. To this day I remember his teaching me to chip golf balls. A great father and husband, he will be deeply missed. I offer my heartfelt condolences to Gloria, Kirsten and Rachel at this sad time.

  2. Kirsten and Rachel,

    I’m sad to hear that such a gentle spirit has departed us. Ian was always very
    relaxed and a pleasure to be around. He was always generous with his smile,
    charm and support. I’m wishing both of you lots of strength and peace with this
    great loss. Please cherish all those fond memories you have of him. I will do
    likewise.

    All the best,
    Roel

  3. Dear Gloria,
    What a gentleman he was, your Ian. We offer you, Gloria, Rachel and Kirsten, our condolences on Ian’s passing. Your very cherished memories are there for you to reach for. To sooth your sadness, reach for them. In sympathy,
    Bob and Claudette

  4. So sad to hear of the passing of Dr. Ian Oates, a former Teacher, Mentor and
    Partner in Associated Radiologists at the Royal Alexandra Hospital and Hys Centre Radiology Clinic. Beneath his relaxed demeanour, he was intelligent, knowledgeable and always professional, and always displayed a common sense
    approach to every problem, Medical or otherwise. Definitely “ a true Gentleman “,
    but with a great sense of humour, friendly, and easy to talk to.
    The Citizens of Edmonton and Northern Alberta are fortunate to have benefitted
    from Ian’s long and dedicated career.
    Condolences to Gloria, Kirsten and Rachel.

  5. Dear Gloria, Rachel and Kirsten,

    It is with profound sadness that we learn of the passing of Dr. Ian Oates. Ian was a perfect English gentleman, a much respected, gentle leader in Associated Radiology, a true friend, a great golfer and a kindhearted mentor for Margaret when she started her radiology career under his leadership. He was always helpful and protective of his juniors in the Radiology Department. We will always miss him and cherish his memories. We offer our comfort and support for your tremendous loss. May he Rest In Peace.

    Margaret and Ignatius Sin

  6. Dear Gloria,Kirsten and Rachel

    We were so sad to hear the passing of Dr. Oates. He was my former partner,friends,and golfing buddies

    We missed his wisdom sense of humour and above all his physical presence

    He will be missed …

    Our deepest condolences to the family

    Allan and Amy Tang

  7. It is very sad to learn of Dr. Oates passing. I first got to know him as I was a resident in Radiology at RAH in 1974. He was a good teacher, gentle and friendly. Later we became colleagues and partners at MIC and we remain good friends. Got to know Gloria. Have not seen or heard from him since he retired. Our deepest condoeinces to the family. God bless.

  8. Dear Gloria
    ,We were so sorry to hear of Ian’s passing. Our family sends condolences. We all remember Ian with great fondness and our family remember well the magic shows at the barbecues.
    Our thoughts are with you at this time.
    Ruth and Dick Keogh

  9. Dear Gloria,

    Harry and I are saddened to learn of Ian’s passing, news of which reached us only yesterday. Ian was a firm friend and peerless colleague. We will always remember his warmth and good humour, not to mention his virtuoso skill on the golf course.

    Our deepest sympathies to the whole family.

    Helen and Harry Phillips

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