Robert James Duncan

He was born and raised in Calgary. At sixteen, he followed his friend Frank Dawson (a fellow Bownessian, someone who lives in Bowness) into the Canadian Navy. Bob served on an aircraft carrier during the cold war. He saw a lot of the world during his service and was present at the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

Bob met Norma at a house party in Nova Scotia. The two were married in 1953 and soon four children arrived. Their three surviving daughters are Shawn, Tracy (Heather) and Kelly (Cam). Bob dearly loved his three grandchildren, Ashley, Cody and Sara (Alex). He is also survived by brothers Ronald “Bus”, Edward “Tedd” and a sister, Judy.

Bob is predeceased by his son Joel.

Bob worked in hotels as Services Manager until he began a long career teaching at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT).

In 1973, he moved the family to Pickering, Ontario to study at Ryerson Polytechnical to earn a business diploma (with Honours). We spent one wonderful year living on the shore of Lake Ontario. When his schooling was complete, the family returned to Calgary. Bob continued his teaching position at SAIT, and he established the Hotel and Food Management Service program.

Bob was loved by staff and students alike and had many lasting friendships with colleagues and students. Many successful graduates invited Bob and Norma to stay at luxurious hotels (in Bermuda and Whistler to name just a couple) where they were treated like royalty.

In addition to travelling, Bob loved playing golf with friends and family. He enjoyed curling, cross-country skiing, fishing, boating, cards and pool. Bob and Norma enjoyed cooking for family and friends, hosting many wonderful parties. He also loved to go camping with his grandchildren.

Bob was concerned with social issues and politics; there were many lively discussions with family and friends. We will miss his quick wit, sense of humour and insight.

Family was very important to Dad. He was very proud of his children and loved his extended family, including many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Dad spent his last years tenderly caring for his love Norma. When she passed, he was heartbroken and so he followed her.

Rest in peace Mom and Dad.

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