Obituary of Esther Elouise Laidlaw

April 10, 1930 - Mooringsport, Louisiana, USA

July 29, 2024 - Calgary, Alberta

Esther Elouise Laidlaw, wife of Robert Laidlaw, passed away at the age of 94 on Monday, July 29, 2024, at her lovely suite in Staywell Manor. She was born in Mooringsport, Louisiana on April 10, 1930, to Viola and Heck Barfield.

Mom was a proud graduate of the University of Oklahoma (also where Mom and Dad met), where she received her Bachelor of Education degree while working at American Airlines at night as an administrator. She then went on to have a successful career as a Regional Sales Manager for Vanda Beauty Counselor. Mom became a stay-at-home mom and a full-time social organizer who helped Dad have a successful career and balanced their many volunteer endeavours. “Beside a great man, is a great woman”.

In 1983, when Dad was President of the Calgary Stampede Mom was his biggest supporter and the first wife to ride in the parade. She was by his side for over 50 years providing organization and support for the Oilmen's Golf Tournament. The plaque they received was shown off proudly and she always pointed out the significance.

Mom was a member of the Calgary Golf & Country Club and the Glencoe Club and was a longtime volunteer for CHAS, as it was a cause close to her heart. In her free time, she enjoyed playing golf, bridge, and gin rummy. Mom had a true passion for life and always made the most out of every moment. She will be remembered for creating memorable experiences with her beloved husband Robert.

Mom (Meme) leaves behind her children, Beverlee (Michael), Rob (Joyce), and Margaret. She also leaves behind five cherished grandchildren, Brandon (Geny), Alex (Cody), Hunter, Mack (Cory), and Ryan (Taylor); two great-grandchildren, Keelan and Maya; brother-in-law Jim Walasko, and sister-in-law Ronnie Barfield. She will also be greatly missed by her extended family and friends.

Esther was predeceased by her husband Robert Laidlaw, parents, Viola and Heck Barfield, her brothers, Charles and Dick; and sister Margaret.

A Celebration of Esther’s Life will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Park Memorial - Hospitality Centre, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB) on Friday, August 30, 2024, at 2:30 p.m. 

Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Mrs. Laidlaw’s service streamed live (see link below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted.

The family would like to thank Catherine and Heather for their dedicated care of Mom and Dad and the staff at Staywell Manor.

“We will always remember Esther for her grace, elegance, and kind heart. She was a true Southern Belle and will never be forgotten.”

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to Children’s Hospital Aid Society (CHAS), P.O. Box 900, Station “M”, Calgary, AB, T2P 2M7, www.chascalgary.ca or the charity of your choice.

“Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and very dear.” - Author Unknown.

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

In living memory of Esther Laidlaw, 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.

Click Here to Sign the Video Guest Book and Watch Esther's Celebration of Life