Editor’s Note (January 26, 2026): We were deeply saddened to learn that Al Osten died on January 23, 2026. As we mourn this great loss, we remain forever grateful for his and Buddy Victor’s generosity, and are proud to be part of their legacy of giving through the Osten-Victor Living with Advanced Illness Centre.
We are thrilled to share exciting news for the Hospice Calgary community. The Living with Advanced Illness Centre has received a transformational endowment gift from local philanthropist Al Osten and his late partner Buddy Victor. In recognition of their extraordinary generosity, we are proud to announce that the centre will now be known as the Osten-Victor Living with Advanced Illness Centre.
For nearly 40 years, Hospice Calgary has provided support services for people impacted by advanced illness. Throughout this time, our Living with Advanced Illness Centre programs have operated without ongoing government funding. This meant that every year, significant fundraising efforts were required simply to keep the doors open for these services.
Al Osten holding photo of Buddy Victor. Source: Judy Aldous / CBC / July 2025
The Osten-Victor endowment changes that reality. By providing ongoing operational funding, this gift is a critical first step towards a stronger, more sustainable centre.
This endowment demonstrates leadership in giving and trust in Hospice Calgary’s ability to support those in our community with advanced illness. As our population ages and more people are living longer with complex health needs, the demand for community-based care continues to grow. Because of the Osten-Victor Endowment, our centre is now better positioned to meet these increasing needs.
However, the work isn’t over. As our community grows and changes, donors, partners, and funders will continue to play a vital role in ensuring Calgarians can get the care they need to live life to the fullest while living with advanced illness.
This recent endowment is not the first time Al’s generosity has touched Hospice Calgary. In late 2024, Al made a major gift to support critical capital funding needs at Rosedale Hospice. Last year, this donation contributed to patient room upgrades. In 2026 the gift will fund an accessible shower room, along with many other much-needed building and property upgrades to improve comfort, safety, accessibility, and care for patients and their loved ones.
Al Osten and Buddy Victor’s generosity has strengthened our community and will help us continue serving Calgarians for the next 40 years and beyond.
Thank you again to Al Osten and Buddy Victor. We are so deeply grateful for your vision, leadership, and generosity.
Read more about Al and Buddy’s story here.
Celebrating A New Chapter
On January 14, 2026, we were honoured to host a special gathering at our SE office celebrating the enduring legacy of Al Osten and Buddy Victor, whose generosity will continue to shape the Osten‑Victor Living with Advanced Illness Centre for decades to come. The event brought together members of Al and Buddy’s family, local government representatives, volunteers, clients, past and present board members, and both current and former staff. It was a truly meaningful afternoon—rich with connection, gratitude, and celebration.
View and/or download the full gallery from the event here.