Robert "Bob" Ford

Robert David Ford of Lethbridge passed away at Foothills Hospital on October 26, 2020, at the age of 65 years. Bob was the proud father of Chris (deceased), Jeff (deceased) and Clayton James (Jessica) Buckel of Grande Prairie.  He is also survived by his granddaughter Hailey Gagnon; sister Shirley and her daughter Donna (Guy) Lunnin and their son Cody as well as his nephew Robert Guy Ford of Camrose.  He was predeceased by his parents Laura Winnifred Georgina Lyons of Kitchener, ON and Moncrieff Edgar Henry Ford of Kerrobert, SK and his brother Moncrieff (Skip)

Bob was born in Edmonton, AB and that city always held a special place in his heart. He would often tell stories of his memorable days in YEG as District Manager of the Money Mart stores and the experiences that taught him how to communicate with people and the interesting and unusual clientele of the stores.  Bob had a deep understanding of the human condition and it showed in his demeanor toward his friends.  Several of his friends used to tell him he should write a book, and although he loved the idea of being an author, he never put pen to paper.

Bob was a lover and advocate of all animals. You only have to scroll his Facebook page to see his favorite photography subject – cats! Bob devoted himself to the care and love of several cats in his lifetime, Champion being his "ride or die" best friend for life. They had an incredible relationship that enriched both their lives. When Champion was too old and sick to carry on, Bob took him in for his final ride and said goodbye through tear-filled eyes and resigned himself to a life without him. Then along came the fireball cat Chippy. Chippy had energy to burn and Bob would dedicate his days to setting up obstacle courses in the yard as well as down the hallway so Chippy could perform some acrobatic moves. They became very fast friends and there has never been two souls who needed each other more.

Bob was a vocal supporter of many animal rescue groups in Lethbridge. He participated in fundraisers and was eager to help educate the public on animal care and welfare. He was also a foster home for NOKA and had boots on the ground when there was an animal in distress. He was dependable, kind, wise, and animal intrinsically knew he was there to help.

Bob was a long time member of the Historic Edmonton and Northern Alberta Facebook group.  His family had a rich Edmonton history, one that made him proud.  He grew up on the south side of the North Saskatchewan River at a time when children explored on their own.  His explorations and the resulting collections were the base of many stories.  Bob’s stories resonated with many who shared his experiences and those who wish they had.  He was a generous, funny and living man who made many members feels as if they were his close friends. 

Bob continued his explorations when he moved to Lethbridge as loved taking photos of old buildings, architecture and nature. Bob has an amazing group of friends who miss and love him. Our prayer is that he has been reunited with his loved ones and his precious cats.

A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00pm on Friday, November 13, 2020 at Christensen Salmon Generations Funeral Home, 703-13th Street North, Lethbridge, Alberta. Everyone is welcome. Social distancing guidelines must be followed, and please bring a mask. If you are unable to attend, a live webcast will be available on the funeral home website, under Bob’s obituary notice.

 In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the NoKill Animal Association (NoKA) of Lethbridge at lethbridge.noka@gmail.com or 52 Canyon Crest Lethbridge, AB T1K 7Y4.

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