08/29/2026
Canmore has lost one its last great local characters.
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of John Kirchpfennig, founder of JK Bakery.
John, along with Helen (Elena) Silverstroff and Fabian Viani opened JK Bakery in Shaman Lane on Main Street in 1994, back when Canmore was a much smaller community. Over the years John became a familiar face around town and at the bakery - known for his passion for baking and his unmistakable personality.
Although John and Helen sold the bakery in 2010, John continued to stop in and visit us, keeping a connection to the place he helped create.
A true Canmore original and an important part of JK Bakery’s history. He will be missed.
Our thoughts are with John’s family and friends.
