Obituary of Robert Blake Ashforth

May 10, 1927 - Toronto, Ontario
September 25, 2023 - Calgary, Alberta

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the peaceful passing of Blake Ashforth, with his daughter at his side, having lived life to its fullest, on Monday, September 25, 2023, at the age of 96 years. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Gayle Ashforth, his daughter Kit, and his brother Ross. He is survived by his many loving family members.

Blake was born in Toronto, ON, on May 10, 1927, to Albert (“Bert”) Ashforth and Annetta (“Nettie”) Ross. He grew up in Toronto, where he met the love of his life, Gayle, in high school. They attended the University of Toronto together and moved to Lethbridge, AB, in 1951, where they began their married life. Life around Blake was a constant adventure, and his banking career at RBC Royal Bank led his family to live in South America and the Caribbean. During that time, they welcomed three children—Kit, Steve, and Marijane—and established lifelong friendships. The family eventually settled back in Canada in 1969 and Calgary in 1975.

In addition to Blake’s banking career, he devoted time to community leadership roles at the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, United Way, Stampeders Football Club, University of Calgary Investment Committee and Faculty of Business Advisory Council, and Calgary Petroleum Club. Blake enjoyed a fulfilling retirement, spending time in Muskoka, Canmore, and Victoria, where he enjoyed the beauty of nature and the company of his loved ones. He was an avid golfer and fisherman, with stories that never ceased to entertain, and a joke and smile always at the ready. He was known for hosting at any moment’s notice, be it an impromptu picnic out of the back of the car or happy hour in their home, Blake and Gayle were always eager to bring family and friends together. His grandchildren remember Opa's legendary bedtime stories, which will live on to the delight of his great-grandchildren.

After the accident, Blake was a true survivor with great resiliency and lived his life making cherished new friends. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was a kind, generous, and loyal friend who touched the lives of many people. The family would like to thank everyone who made time for him, especially in the last decade. We are deeply grateful to family, the Amica caregivers, and a special thanks to Criszel Manio and lifelong friends, with special thanks to his close friend Ethel, who he shared his final years with. He will live on in the shared memories of many family members, friends, and loved ones. The best thing about memories is making them, and we are grateful for the ones we have to share.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to United Way of Calgary and Area, #600, 1202 Centre Street S.E., Calgary, AB T2G 5A5 Telephone: (403) 231-6265, www.calgaryunitedway.org or to the charity of the donor’s choice.

A private family service will be held to honor him in his final resting place.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Blake’s family here. 

In living memory of Blake Ashforth, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.