Thinn, Ian Duncan
Ian Duncan Thinn
Ian Duncan Thinn, born on February 28th, 1970, passed away on Saturday, September 27th, 2025. Ian is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Erin; stepson, Kyle Huber of Edmonton, AB; stepdaughter, Talia Huber of Moose Jaw, SK; grandson, Xander Buziak; parents, Alastair and Gail Thinn of Steinbach, MB; sister, Lorna (Allan) Mozel; nephews, Jonathan and Matthew; and niece, Mary of Winnipeg, MB.
Ian was a simple man. He loved airplanes, westerns, camping, kayaking, being in nature, and most of all, the mountains. Banff was where his spirit felt at peace and his soul rejuvenated. He also loved Waskesiu. It was his home away from home and the next best thing to being in the mountains.
Ian grew up in Beausejour, Manitoba. He was an Air Cadet, earning his glider pilots license at age 16. When he graduated high school, Ian pursued a career in aviation, attaining his Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Diploma. He worked for Custom Helicopters, based out of Winnipeg, MB for several years before taking a job in Moose Jaw working for Bombardier. He was on the ground floor when the training program started at 15 Wing, and he ended his 25+ year career with CAE as the Senior Design Engineer for both Harvard and Hawk training fleets. He was excited about the FACT program and the chance to work with new aircraft. Sadly, he couldn’t see this come to fruition.
Ian loved the holidays. Christmas was his favorite, next to Birthdays and Easter. Chocolate bunnies were a “thing” in our house and look out if there wasn’t a bunny to be had Easter morning.
Ian battled health issues for most of his adult life. He did it quietly and quite often without complaint. His health took a turn in June of 2023, resulting in a cancer diagnosis and then subsequent kidney issues that eventually took him. He often said that he didn’t want to leave, that there was more that he wanted to do, but his body just wouldn’t let him. He passed away at home, as was his wish, with his wife and stepdaughter by his side.
When asked about what he wanted for a remembrance, he said that he wanted people to just get together and have a few laughs, maybe a bite to eat and something to drink. He didn’t want any formal celebration, just a gathering of friends and family. He said he would leave it up to Erin.
So, in honor of him, on Saturday, August 22nd, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., a “simple” Celebration of Ian’s Life will be held at the Kinsmen Wellesley Pavilion in the Wakamow River Valley Park in Moose Jaw. Snacks and drinks will be provided but you are asked to please bring your own lawn chair if you are able to. This will be a time to share stories, to remember Ian as he would have wanted us to remember him…with laughter, maybe a few tears, and some good food in a place that he loved to be in. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Shirese Noble Funeral Director 306-693-4550
Ian was taken from us way too soon. We used to discuss things we would change if it were our airforce and I know he was pleased that the PC-21 was chosen for FAcT. With all the changes being discussed in the military these days, I really miss my friend to discuss it all with. My thoughts are with you Erin.
Ian was a fun person to talk to, about anything. It was always great to meet at lunch or over a coffee in the lunchroom overlooking 15 Wing main runway.
Business took me to Moose Jaw for more than 20 years and spending time with Ian was always top on my agenda as we shared the same passion for aviation. We built a unique friendship over the years which I will greatly miss. We also shared a passion for Formula One racing that kept us in touch through his sickness. Our dearest sympathy to Erin and his family; rest in peace my friend.