Honouring the incredible life of STARS founder Dr. Greg Powell

It is with great sadness that STARS announces the passing of founder and former CEO, Dr. Greg Powell.

Dr. Powell, whose inspiration for STARS was sparked by his experience in Saigon during the Vietnam War, passed away on April 30, 2025 at Foothills Hospice in Okotoks with his wife, Linda, and his family by his side. He was 77.

While his life is celebrated, rich with experiences, talent and ingenuity, Dr. Powell’s passing leaves a hole in the heart of STARS and for the people who loved him.

“From the very beginning of his distinguished medical career, Dr. Powell was committed to saving lives. Early on, he recognized too many patients were dying because they couldn’t get the care they needed fast enough and was motivated to change that,” said Dr. John Froh, president and CEO of STARS.

His vision and determination to build a charitable helicopter emergency medical service that was truly all about providing access to world-class care for every patient, is unparalleled.

Dr. Froh continued, “All of us at STARS extend our heartfelt condolences to Dr. Powell's family and loved ones and our thoughts are with them as we share in this profound loss. Countless people are alive today because of his ground-breaking vision and enduring tenacity and for that we are honoured to carry on his mission.”

The entire STARS team expresses their deepest condolences and sympathy to the Powell family for their immense loss.