In Loving Memory of Dr. Erdoğan Ӧzcan

1933 – 2024

Dr. Erdoğan Ӧzcan of Miramichi, New Brunswick, passed away peacefully at the Miramichi Regional Hospital on October 6, 2024, at the age of 91. He joins his dear wife, Roselyne (Rebecca) Ӧzcan, who passed away in 2001, and who awaits him with open arms following so many years apart. Erdoğan will be greatly missed by his two sons, Kerim and Selim, his daughter-in-law, Sheila, his two grandsons, Jordan and Logan, his relatives in Türkiye and France, and his many friends and colleagues, particularly on the Miramichi in New Brunswick.

The eldest son of three siblings, Erdoğan (Eddie) traces his father’s (Fehmi) ancestry from Bulgaria and his mother’s (Naime) from Georgia. In the early part of the last century, his parents found themselves in Polatli, located near Ankara, Türkiye, where Erdoğan was born on June 5, 1933. The family moved to Istanbul where his father was a humble merchant selling olives, cheese and meats. Once settled in Istanbul for a few years, Erdoğan’s parents welcomed a daughter to their family, Inҫi, followed by the arrival of their second son, Tandoğan, making Erdoğan’s immediate family of five complete. The origin of the family name, Ӧzcan, comes from “öz”, meaning real or genuine, and “can”, meaning soul or life. This can be interpreted as “the one who is really friendly“, as Erdoğan was known to be.

Erdoğan spent his most formative years of education at the prestigious “School of the Sultans”, Galatasaray, an institution having over a 550 year history. Following this elite education, Erdoğan was accepted into Medical School in Istanbul and graduated in 1958.  Erdoğan then proudly served as a medical officer in a peace keeping capacity during the Korean War in 1959-1960. Following his tour of duty, he was accepted into the surgical specialty of Gynaecology and Obstetrics in Montreal in 1961, completing his training in 1966.

While in Montreal, Erdoğan met the love of his life, Roselyne, and the couple were married there on September 27, 1963.  They relocated to Miramichi, New Brunswick, in July, 1966, where they would make their home together for over 38 years.  Over this span of time, they enjoyed raising their two sons.  Although post-secondary education would lead Kerim and Selim to other places for their continued studies and careers, coming home to their parents in Miramichi would always remain special, and in particular, visiting their idyllic cottage at East Point over the summer season, so beautifully appointed by Roselyne.

Erdoğan was a pioneer of Gynaecology and Obstetrics “On the River”, meeting the needs of his many patients selflessly whenever called. With his gifted surgical hands, it is rumoured he is responsible for bringing over 5,000 babies into this wonderful world on the Miramichi. He proudly served in this capacity on the Miramichi and region for over 35 years, and is fondly remembered by his many patients.  While a doctor both in private practice and at Hotel Dieu Hospital, Erdoğan also served as a Captain in the Reserve at CFB Chatham, working hand in hand with Servicemen of the Military. He was Chief of Staff at Hotel Dieu Hospital in Chatham before it closed, following which he was instrumental in establishing the current Gynaecology and Obstetrics Department at Miramichi Hospital. Erdoğan was also a long-standing member of the Canadian Medical Association before retiring in 1998. Erdoğan has touched many souls through his medical practice and is fondly remembered by a core of loyal nurses and colleagues that often followed in his footsteps.

Speaking of the river, Erdoğan’s other passion besides his family and profession, was casting a fly rod on the many tributaries of the Miramichi to catch that elusive salmon. He often went fishing before going to the OR, to bathe in the warmth of the morning sun over his favourite salmon pool on the Sevogle. May you rest in peace, our dear father, father-in-law and grandfather, and cast your fishing line on a river of your choosing. May you rest in peace, knowing you will be loved always and forever missed.

Erdoğan’s family would like to extend our heartfelt thanks and sincere appreciation to all involved in his care and for making his final days more comfortable. This includes the staff at Miramichi Hospital, those in the Palliative Care Unit and Extra-Mural Nursing. We extend a special thank you to Dr. Ninean Slorach for his wonderful care through the years, particularly in Erdoğan’s final days.

As were Dr. Erdoğan Ӧzcan’s wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral service.  

Please Note: The Celebration of Life for Dr. Erdogan Ӧzcan will be held at the Rodd Inn, Miramichi, on Saturday, June 14th, from 5:30 PM - Midnight, with the main program beginning at around 7:30 PM until 10:30 PM.  First two hours or so will be for the guest condolences, with live music.  Times may adjust slightly.  Guests are welcome to bring fresh flowers for display.  The family is recommending people to wear white, or light coloured clothing.  (Please No Black Attire).

As expressions of sympathy, donations to the Miramichi Hospital, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics would be appreciated.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Adams Funeral Home Ltd., 140 King St., Miramichi, telephone (506) 773-3492.  Additionally, messages of condolence may be shared online at www.adamsfh.ca 

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