ROB BUTLER
August 11, 1959 – December 16, 2017
“Thank you for bringing me HOPE”
After a courageous and determined fight, our true angel on earth, Rob, joined his Mom in peace.
Family always came first. Rob was a selfless, kind and loving husband, dad, papa, son and brother. He preferred to spend time with family. All aspects of his children’s lives were a priority; Hockey tournaments for Curtis, dance recitals for Steph, French homework and guidance. His cooking of regular Sunday dinners brought extended family together. Spending quality time with his granddaughters, Nixon and Mya, included swimming, driving the golf cart, playing hide and seek or anything they requested of Papa.
Rob always considered others well-being before his own. Even in his last 7 weeks of life while he was residing at the hospice, Rob was planning events to bring smiles, hope and happiness to others. He volunteered in the Tumper Study for brain cancer at University of Calgary to bring HOPE to others. He continually checked with the Scientist to see if he was making a difference in their study.
With an undeniable zest for life; hockey, football, golf, family ski trips, camping, waterskiing, fishing and even ziplining; he was game to try it all! In a lifelong dream of hard work, tough career choices and determination, he purchased a residence in Arizona. He thoroughly enjoyed doing the landscaping, gardening, fixing and helping others there as well.
Rob always prided himself on doing his best. He was born in Quebec and moved with his family to Alberta early elementary school age. He strived to grasp the English language with intellect and determination; ascertaining a rewarding and successful career. He started his career at the City of Red Deer Water and Wastewater. The excellence in his work, accolades and awards he received, took him to the City of Lethbridge, Alberta Pacific Forest Industries, Stat Oil, Conoco Phillips (Australia) and lastly Meg Energy.
An unfillable hole has been left in the lives of those touched by Rob. He was a man of few words, but his gentle character and impact said it all. Thank you to the family, friends and co-workers (especially Meg Energy) who have supported Rob during his journey.
Rob is survived by his loving family, Katherine, Curtis (Cassie), Stephanie (Trevor) and granddaughters, Nixon and Mya. Also mourning his loss are his family; Roland (father), sister Johanne (Wade), brother Michael (Leah), nieces and nephews, Jesse, Jenner (Kelsey), Terrance (Vanessa), Matthew, Josee, Anna (AJ), in-laws Richard (Cris) and Elizabeth. Rob was predeceased by his Mom, Carmen, who was his inspiration and motivation to grasp life and be the best he could be.
Please join us to honour Rob December 29, anytime after 2pm at The Hideout, 411 Lantern St. Red Deer. Sports were Rob’s passion…your favourite team’s jersey or sports shirt is encouraged. (Of course, Rob’s Montreal Canadiens are the best! ) Kids are welcome.
In lieu of flowers, if so desired, donations may be made to the Living With Cancer Program, Sage Centre, Hospice Calgary 1245 70 Ave SE Calgary T2H 2X8 403 263 4525 Heartland Funeral Services Ltd., Innisfail entrusted with arrangements. 403-227-0006 www.heartlandfuneralservices.com