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Condolences
The size of the audience at Rob's Celebration of Life last week was truly indicative of how much he was respected and loved in this community. Rob was such a kind and genuine person, always with a "Howdy Partner". While he will be missed everywhere, I will miss him most at the #1 Legion during Stampede. Rob was such a character, always telling jokes, greeting everyone he met. He was a friend to everyone...an exceptional human being.
My thoughts and prayers are with you Joyce and with your two wonderful sons, Alex and Ryan
Allen Wright
One of the founders of the infamous Crazy Canadian Club at ASU. As a member of that club I am proud to say you were a good friend... The "get togethers" at the Canadian Embassy were historic!! I am so so sorry Bev and Margaret and words cannot due it justice just know that we will all carry his memories on... All the best in this trying time and I am with you all.
Ron Stitt
Calgary, Alberta
Joyce, Ryan, and Alex
The celebration of Rob‘s life was beautiful and heartfelt from all that spoke of Rob‘s journey.
The boys ouzzed love while speaking about their times with their dad, and there, many loving memories together.
I was always aware of Rob‘s contribution to Chaz. However, it was nice to hear of all the other well deserved charities Rob supported.
Joyce, you will be in our hearts and prayers. I know this new. chapter in your life will be very different-without your husband., I have no doubt with the love of your boys, friends and family you will carry on Rob’s legacy.
God bless Sharon and Jim
You can’t say Calgary without saying Rob Laidlaw. I’ll always cherish my memories working on The Posse where Rob in all his glory was responsible for its years of success. Larger than life, his spirit, sense of humour and Big Ol Bear Hugs will be remembered and cherished. God Speed, God Bless and Thank You for being a Friend.
My condolences for your loss. My name is Vanessa Frampton and I've worked with Calgary Stampede, (Catering Dept.) for almost 7 yrs. Though I never knew Rob personally, I'm sure I've had the privilege of serving him on more than one occasion, be it a Fundraising Gala, Reception, Saddle Up, Chuck wagon Auction, Stampede Kick-Off...etc...Rob left T-Rex sized cowboy boots to fill. Take care of each other, and live life for each other, knowing that one day you and Rob will meet again... Hopefully on a golf course, or poolside.
"Mama" Rob was my roommate at ASU; he was quite a good cook, especially his spaghetti! He was also a good organizer/ringleader. He certainly helped me survive my first foray away from home. Although we only saw each other occasionally after our ASU years, I watched him accomplish so much, and was always proud to call him my friend. I have many great memories of Rob and will hold them close.
My condolences to his family. Hard times indeed. May his memory be a blessing.
Doug Wilfley
Windermere, BC
Our condolences to Joyce, Alex, Ryan and family on the passing of your husband and dad. We have a fond memory of a cold February in Montana during the Winter Olympics. We all worked together to create our own Olympics which included an icy luge track, ice skating and snowball fights. There were even medals! Thanks for the memories! Peggy, Paul, Jessica and Graham Riches
I considered Rob a friend, customer, and a most honest, trustworthy broker.
When I was doing commercial vehicle leasing, I have a photo of me delivering him his $50000ish decked out 4x4 Dodge Diesel pick up truck what he joked was to pull his self sufficient motorhome that he and his family could live in the bush for a year in case the markets crashed :) He was so appreciative and he asked me if there was anything he could do for me and jokingly I said ya say hi to my kids when you're on TV in the morning.
He took time out on one of his early on-air broadcasts that I still have on vcr when he said this...
"this morning I'd like to first take a moment for a personal note to give a shout out to Adam and Alex Hamm. Now down to business :) "
Our sympathy to his family.
Joyce, Alex and family, I am sending my deepest condolences in Rob's passing. My greatest memories of the Stampede Chuckwagon Tarmac Cheering Team will always be in my heart. Rob’s special character of kindness, generosity and devotion to our community will be dearly missed. I share your loss and know that the wonderful memories will always be with you.
Patsy Corning
Rob, Joyce and the Laidlaw family, I sincerely thank you for everything that you did for Calgary. It wasn’t only what Rob did for the Stampede and all the charities that he stood for, it was the bright light that Rob and Joyce shone out for the community. For all of us, no matter which industry we came from, you always had a hug for us - for me. No matter which part of the world I came back from, I always had a place with you both, no matter where we were. You made Calgary a home and a destination. Words can never describe how much you both meant to me. Rob, in your passing, I hope you know how much you did in your life here. You were a visionary, a truth teller and a great human. May the stars shine bright for you. May your legacy live on and may the love for your city continue to inspire what you started. Dream well my friend, I will remember you forever. Thank you for being amazing while you were with us.
Joyce, Alex, Ryan and families prayers and blessings to you all. It is a sad time for everyone that knew Rob, even those who did not know him well.
He is a great ambassador for Calgary and the Stampede. You will be missed my friend. Take care and ride that horse as you will not be forgotten. Prayers
Heather MacKay.
Dear Joyce and family,
We were so sad to hear the news about Rob’s passing. As your Glen Lake neighbors we always enjoyed seeing Rob cruising by our place during his regular evening boat ride, always offering a big wave and a bigger smile. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this difficult time.
Joyce, Alex and Ryan,
I can't possibly imagine how difficult this must be. As you know better than anyone, Rob was legendary. He defined the word. His love for all humans, his laughter, his kindness and his penchant for connecting people by creating great experiences was nothing short of extraordinary. I am grateful to have had him in my life and call him a friend.
May you find lightness with time and peace in your memories. We will keep his spirit alive with us.
Love and hugs,
Phil Mittertreiner
Such a massive loss!
Rob defined kindness and commitment to community! A great hearted man who I respected so much! Forever missed and always remembered. Grateful for your friendship! ♥️
My heart goes out to you all. I was privileged to be with Rob when he brought the Calgary Stampede to New York City in the early 2000s. Then Consul General Pamela Wallin and I joined Rob as he rang the bell at the New York Stock Exchange and then taught a whole bunch of New Yorkers how to party like it was the Greatest Show On Earth. I never saw so many suits yell YAHOO before 9 am. Rob was an incredible ambassador for our city and a genuinely enthusiastic supporter of his community, friends, family and just being with him meant you were going to have a great day. May he rest in peace while we all try to keep up his good works and his commitment to all os us. Truly, Shelley Ambrose (formerly of the Canadian Consulate in New York)
My deep & sincere condolences to Joyce, his entire family and Stampede Posse. His light was bright and will continue to shine from above. May he Rest In Peace while his legacy lives on.
Dear Joyce, Alex, Ryan, and Family,
Very saddened to learn of the untimely death of Rob. What a phenomenal community builder and generous sole. Our sincere condolences.
Danny & Patti Shannon
Dear Joyce and family,
I am in shock and deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Rob. It’s never easy to find the right words when someone so dear to us passes, but please know that my thoughts are with you during this incredibly difficult time.
Rob was a wonderful person—always friendly, kind, generous, and a joy to be around.
Calgary has lost a true champion. His dedication to the Calgary Stampede and his philanthropic efforts are well known and will certainly be missed. I always enjoyed staying in touch with Rob, especially attending his ‘Best Damn Stampede Party’ and catching up with old friends. It was an event you didn’t want to miss.
Rob was truly a natural community builder, doing so much for Calgary and the causes he cared deeply about. He was loved for his infectious smile and fun-loving nature. Everywhere he went, Rob brought people together with his warm, welcoming personality.
As we mourn Rob’s passing, his legacy will live on. Let us hold tight to the cherished memories of his warmth, kindness, and the boundless joy he shared with all who knew him. "Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed, and held so dear." May we carry those loving memories in our hearts forever.
Rob’s presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit and legacy will continue to live on in all of us. One day, we will meet again and have a wee toast. Let us raise a glass in Rob’s honor, wishing him peace and celebrating the love he shared with us all.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Layden
We will deeply miss your big smile from the red boat on the evening cruises at Glen Lake. The entire community has suffered a huge loss. Joyce and Alex and Ryan, we send our deepest and heartfelt condolences . Rob's absence will be felt so deeply by you, and he will be missed by everyone he touched. May the memories of his big smile always help to lift you up as he walks by your side.
Wendy Potter and David Halpenny
He was such a wonderful, thoughtful and caring person. He will be missed.
Randee
Dear Joyce and Family, Robert was an amazing kind, and genuine individual and always a fun time anytime! My sincere condolences to the family and friends. He will be missed by many.
Sincerest Respect and Condolences to Joyce, his loving wife, his two sons, Alex and Ryan; his sisters, Beverlee and Margaret; an extended family of beloved relatives including in-laws, nephews & nieces; and countless cherished friends including Henk!
Yet to ever meet a kinder, genuine, awesome, and sincere hero gentleman!
Just had to share something about Rob’s humor and talent. Many years ago now, he joined us in Switzerland to make presentations to potential investors. After a particularly long day of meetings, we all went to a local jazz club. Before we knew it Rob was on stage singing a rendition of Hello Dolly in the best Louis Armstrong voice I ever heard! I remember laughing so hard I cried. Rob was a perpetual happy person, always making everyone around him smile. The world has lost someone very very special.
Dear Joyce and family - so sorry to hear of Rob’s passing. Rob was such a great guy and will forever be a memory of great times at Stampede. All of us who knew Rob were fortunate to have enjoyed his zest for life. RIP Rob
To everyone in the family, sincere condolences on the loss of a friend and associate of 40 years. Stampede week will never be the same or lunches at Earl's. Devastating loss. Larry Carter
Joyce, we were shocked and so very saddened to hear of Rob’s sudden passing and we send heartfelt condolences to you and your family as you navigate through this difficult time.
Steve and Rene Edwards
I will always remember Rob's competitive spirit, sportsman like demeanor, sense of humour and dedication to community that I had the privilege of observing over many decades. I'm sure that he will do a great job of making sure heaven has a warm western welcome ready for each of us when our time comes and he'll have convinced St Peter to wear a Smithbuilt and a pair of Alberta boots.
We lost one of the good ones when Rob passed…forever remember our times of following and sponsoring the Rangeland Derby Chuckwagon…modelled our PARDNERS Chuckwagon Team after Rob’s Posse and man did we have a lotta fun! RIP cowboy and Godspeed! Sincere condolences to Joyce and their close knit family…he will be missed!
Will miss running into you at Steins/Watsons. Condolences to your family, 2 legged and 4.
We lost one of the good guys. Rob has been a cornerstone to so many people and organizations. He was a man of his word and a friend to all. Proud to have been included in his circle. Condolences to the family - Steve
RIP #66 (WCHS Redmen) you will be truly missed. :(
When I think of a hero, I dont think of someone who flys around in a cape...I think of someone who stands up and tries to make the world a better place. They see the world as awesome and they just want to make it even better, including everyone and making sure everyone feel special. This is the rare qualities I felt Rob had. He was loads of fun, always kind and caring and always with his signature booming laugh ,, rob lit up a room. I had a life long friendship with Rob and I will miss you terribly old friend. But I am sure I will see you soon enough. Save me a seat, wherever you are. With love and friendship always, John Ferrie.
Am so sorry to see this, Laidlaw family. I went to Queen’s with Alex and my Calgarian mom knew Rob. I had the pleasure of meeting Joyce and Rob while a flight attendant, at which time I shared with them these connections. They were among the friendliest passengers I have served. Knowing Alex, I wasn’t surprised!
Thought I’d share an example of how far and wide Rob’s warmth and kindness reached. My condolences to his family and thinking especially of Joyce and Alex during this difficult time.
Dear Joyce and family,
I was so sad to hear about Rob’s sudden passing. I know how much my Bob enjoyed his friendship and the good times they had golfing and the times I was there with you too at events.
He had a huge heart filled with caring and kindness for his community, friends and most of all his family.
He will be missed by all. My condolences Kelly Blackshaw
Our Sincere Condolences to the Laidlaw Family. Such a shock ! We will always miss his smiling face ! Know we share your loss and are thinking of you , all, at this very difficult time. R.I.P. Rob
Dear Joyce, Alex and Ryan,
We are incredibly shocked and saddened by the sudden illness and passing of your Rob. You and Rob have been friends of ours for many decades. So many fond memories...Claudio's, Cowtown, "Laidlaw Party", Christmas Parties and of course the heat sealing Stampede tattoos! Rob was a giant personality and well loved both personally and professionally,
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and boys during this difficult and unfathomable time.
Love Tavia, Deb, Sharon and Noreen
Sending my deepest condolences to Joyce, Alex, Ryan and the entire community of folks whose lives have been touched by Rob. The world will miss this cowboy! Happy trails Rob.
Our sincerest condolences to Joyce and her family on the passing of Rob. We shared many fun times together at the Stampede and various Calgary watering holes. He was a good man.
Chris and Judy LeGeyt
I had the honor of meeting Rob while I worked at the Calgary stampede head office for many years and he served as a board member. Whenever he would come in , he’d always take time to stop by the desk , greeting me with. a loud and friendly “Howdy Kiddo “ when my own dad passed Rob went out of his way to guide me on what I needed to ensure was taken care of with his financial investments knowing I was clueless but not one time did he ever make me feel that way.
My heart is broken, Calgary and the world has lost a true gentleman and one of the kindest people ever but if if you had the privilege to meet him ever , you are a better person for it.
My love to Joyce and his kids and everyone who loved him.
My deepest condolences to Joyce and family and of course all his beloved colleagues and friends at Acumen. I had the pleasure of knowing Rob when I worked at Acumen as a young lady out of high school at my first job. He always had a big smile ,kind demeanour and deep heartfelt laugh.
Joyce, Alex, Ryan, I am so saddened to hear of Rob's passing. My condolences to you and your extended family through this difficult time. So long partner, Happy Trails to you!
Wee
Here’s wishing all Rob‘s family, business associates and vast network of friends, all the fondest of memories of a great man , Who touched so many organizations, charities, and people along the way, not the least of which was his 25 year support of the Calgary stampede Volunteer and friends, divot, classic golf tournament and support of the Calgary stampede foundation youth programs. Happy trails my friend. Mark Ambrose
Please accept our condolences on the passing of Rob. Our thoughts are with the families.- Peter and Jody Davis and family, Calgary, AB.
Rob was a force in the Calgary community we used to call him Mr Stampede he always had time for friends and willingly gave with a smile taken way too soon RIP Rob you will be missed my sincere condolences Joyce and family
Cathy W
Condolences to you Joyce and to all your family.
A very long winded story precedes this comment but I will always be grateful to Rob for what he did for me. I likely wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for him. I regret I didn’t get another chance to tell him.
Rest in Peace Rob you Crazy Canadian You!!!!
Joyce Please accept our sincere condolences in Rob's passing Pat and Gerry Bader
To the Laidlaw family this is so sad and heart breaking, i went through high school and played football beside him for our senior years, he was a wonderful friend and mentor. I am shocked as most must be.... Rest is in peace Rob.
Rob was such an integral part of the Glen Lake community and will be dearly missed. Condolences to the whole family.
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