Robert (Bob) Hugh Mackie

Bob passed away on Tuesday, January 11, 2022, at the age of 80 years. Bob is survived by his loving wife Gaye; brothers Bill (Tone) and Tim (Jan); son Russell (Antoinnette); granddaughters Sienna and Tia; son Daniel (Guiselle); daughter Robyn; and grandson Kelby. Bob was predeceased by parents William (Bill) and Thelma (Tim); brothers Bliss and Jamie. 

Bob was born in Drumheller, AB on May 12, 1941. Bob moved with his family to Calgary just prior to the war. Bob joined the Canadian Army at 16 years old, however after his parents won the Irish Sweepstakes in 1958, he moved with the family to Santa Barbara, California where they owned a motel. They returned to Calgary where Bob attended Western Canada High School and eventually met his future wife, Gaye.  He attended the University of Calgary where he studied Economics. After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree, he started his career with Shell Canada in the economics department. His career progressed into the Oil and Gas pipeline regulatory industry with Alberta Gas Trunk Line Co and PanCanadian Petroleum where he made many life-long friends.

Bob had a special talent for planning family summer vacations that typically required long, but memorable, driving marathons pulling a leaky tent trailer to places like Long Beach, Tofino, St. Johns Newfoundland, and southern California.  

He also prided himself as being a bit of a DIY expert and proved his skills through seemingly never-ending renovations to their home in Calgary, designing and building their cabin in Windermere BC, and finishing their condominium in Radium. Many years of enjoyment were spent in the Windermere Valley windsurfing, skiing, golfing, and socializing with their network of very special friends.  

After retiring, he and Gaye spent almost 20 years travelling extensively, typically by cruise ship to locations in almost every corner of the world. They also cherished their time spent with the Cookie Exchange, calligraphy, and Friday Coffee friends.  After his wife had a stroke in June 2017, Bob became a committed caregiver until he no longer had the strength or stamina due to his year and a half battle with cancer. 

A Celebration of Bob’s Life will be held at a later date.  On his behalf, please consider a donation to the Salvation Army Agape Hospice.  

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