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March 19, 1934 – July 6, 2021
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of an incredible man, Robert (Bob) Gordon McArthur on Tuesday, July 06, 2021, at the age of 87 years.
Born and raised in the Calgary area Bob was one of 7 children. As a dedicated and hard-working young man he served as a Calgary Firefighter for many of his adult years. May 31, 1958, Bob met and married the girl of his dreams, Gail Constance Gedge, (predeceased). They shared 54 beautiful years together living in Calgary, Okotoks and High River. Their family of just two grew as did their love for one another
Although often quiet and thoughtful there was always a twinkle in Bob’s eye and a grin that toyed with mischievousness. We all loved that about him and his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren carry some of these traits too.
He is immeasurably missed by his children, grand and great grandchildren. Kim (Brad), (granddaughters) Dani, Missy, April & Erica; Scott (Teresa), Cody (grandson) & Farrah, Waylon & Locklyn, Dylan (grandson) & (Dani), Brinley & Heaton; Steve (Carla), Cameron & Shayne; Cindy, Leah (granddaughter) & Chris, Shy, Kali, Chloe; Sean (Jacquie), Brooke, Devin & Aidan.
As a young family they became actively involved with horses and as anybody who knew Bob he lived and breathed for his children. Alongside Gail it only seemed fitting they became two of the founding members of the DeWinton Riding Club in 1971. No grass grew under Bob’s feet as he was always on the move. During his years with the Calgary Fire Department he also ran a successful home construction business as well. In 1979 upon his retirement as Senior Man with the Fire Department, he stepped into a new venture with his wife and sons as was known as Bow Mark Paving and continues to be a success today.
Bob and Gail were active members of the Okotoks community and had various other business ventures over the years including High Country Photo and Lickety Splitz Ice Cream Parlour. Bob wasn’t all work and no play. Throughout his life he always had a great appreciation and pride for old vehicles from his 1964 Cadillac to his MG.
He loved to travel and saw a many a sight in his days. As workdays rolled into retirement both Gail and Bob were often found on the golf course. High or low score it didn’t matter he was always happy to be there and enjoyed socializing and afternoon happy hour. Bob was also an avid gardener and great cook that was always known for hosting delicious meals whether he was cooking for his fellow fire fighters or his ever-growing family of 4 children, their significant others, 8 grandchildren and 7 grandchildren. His prime rib and spaghetti were legendary.
Days, evenings and weekends Bob was his children’s and grandchildren’s biggest fan whether it be at a hockey game, football, rugby, soccer, baseball, dance, or rodeo event. Hockey rink burger and fries were known to be one of his favorites.
After losing his beloved Gail, life and that twinkle in his eyes dimmed so you can imagine the families support and happiness when Kaye Torrez came into his life to hold his hand, walk through life and share many a happy memory. So fortunate to have not one but two great loves in one’s lifetime. Truly blessed.
Friends and family that loved Bob as much as we did are invited to celebrate his life at the DeWinton Community Hall on Thursday, July 22, 2021 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. A reading and a glass will be raised in Bob’s honor at 5:30 p.m. The family welcomes any and all to share fond memories at this time.
A special thank you that nowhere near adequately expresses our gratitude goes out to the 200 Ward of the High River Hospital and all their staff as they too were Bob’s family for the last couple of years.
Photos, memories and condolences may be shared with Bob’s family through Snodgrass Funeral Homes www.snodgrassfuneralhomes.com. In lieu of flowers or donations, the family wishes you honor Bob’s ability to be present and cherish your own loved ones.
