Obituary of Robert William Alexander Laidlaw

February 9, 1960 - Calgary, Alberta

January 5, 2025 - Calgary, Alberta

Rob Laidlaw passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at the age of 64. Rob is survived by his loving wife, Joyce (née Van Buren); his two sons, Alex (Cody) and Ryan (Taylor); his sisters, Beverlee and Margaret; an extended family of beloved relatives including in-laws, nephews & nieces; and countless cherished friends.

Rob was born in Calgary on February 9, 1960, to Bob and Esther Laidlaw. After graduating from Western Canada High School, he earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Arizona State University, and cemented lasting friendships in founding the "Crazy Canadian Club". Returning to Calgary, Rob built a distinguished career as a financial advisor, spending the past 25 years at Acumen Capital Partners. Rob’s innate ability to develop genuine connections, often through a quick joke and a shared laugh, earned him immense respect in the Calgary business community.

Rob married Joyce in October 1988, and together with their two sons shared a marriage filled with love and laughter. Rob treasured having fun in their favourite places, Glen Lake, Montana and Scottsdale, Arizona. Rob loved nothing more than lunch with friends, watching football, barbequing for loved ones, a boat cruise around the lake, and a day out on the golf course - often joined by his loyal caddy, Henk.

Rob was well known for his ambassadorship and lifelong dedication to the Calgary Stampede. His volunteer journey began with the Downtown Attractions Mascots Committee. He served for a decade on the Board and was named an Honorary Life Director. One of his proudest moments was arranging for Outlaw the bull to kick off the rodeo by ringing the closing bell for the New York Stock Exchange.

Rob’s generosity made him a natural community builder. His annual "Best Damn Stampede Party" contributed over $1.8 million to charitable causes, notably the Children’s Hospital Aid Society. He co-founded "The Posse," a spirited group of friends who sponsored a chuckwagon. Everywhere he went, Rob brought people together with his warm, welcoming nature.

Rob’s legacy extends far beyond his professional and philanthropic accomplishments. He was a devoted family man, a loyal friend, and an eternal optimist. His boundless humor, love of storytelling, and ability to forge lifelong connections were hallmarks of his character.

Rob’s family would like to express gratitude to the many devoted doctors and nurses on Unit 36 at the Foothills Hospital, who worked tirelessly over the holidays to care for Rob.

To honour Rob, his parents Bob and Esther, and commemorate their many contributions to the Calgary community, the Laidlaw Family Fund has been established at Calgary Foundation. Donations in his memory can be made here.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the Champions Ballroom at the BMO Centre at Stampede Park (1912 Flores Ladue Parade SE, Calgary, AB) on Thursday, January 16, 2025.

Doors will open at 2:30pm, with the formal program to begin at 3pm and a brief reception to follow.

Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Rob’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.

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

In living memory of Rob 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 to Sign the Video Guest Book and Watch Rob Laidlaw’s Celebration of Life