Mr. Robert Bob Stanley Lett

Robert “Bob” Stanley beloved husband of Sharon Lett, passed away quietly on Friday, February 14, 2014 at the age of 67 years. Bob was a man who loved life. One of his finest attributes was the way he treated everyone around him and his ability to make them feel comfortable.

Bob will be deeply missed by his wife Sharon, brothers Don (Bev) Lett, Al (Elinor) Lett, Mel (Anne) Lett, Barry (Janet) Lett and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, George (Harry) and Nelda Lett. Bob was born and raised in Ottawa, Ontario. He joined the military at an early age and was a member of the Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians) and was president of the association for a number of years. He held numerous jobs in Calgary and most recently Bob and Sharon joined the volunteer staff at the South Health Campus. This volunteer role brought him great satisfaction as it gave him the opportunity to meet new people and offer assistance to them at a potentially hard time. Sharon and Bob were married in Medicine Hat on June 3, 1978 and have lived in Calgary since then.

A Memorial Service for Bob will be held at SOUTH CALGARY FUNERAL CENTRE, 12700 Macleod Trail South, (at Lake Fraser Gate) Calgary on Saturday, February 22, 2014 at 1:00 P.M.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity near and dear to your heart.

This book will highlight the lives of both Bob and Sharon as their meeting and life together was truly meant to be.

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Strathcona Enews

It is with great sadness we announce that on Friday, February 14th, Robert (Bob) Lett passed away in Calgary. Bob served in uniform with the Regiment during the 1960s and 1970s, but he never lost his ties to the Regimental family and continued to work with the association well into recent years as a lifetime member of the Association and Past-President. His humour and love of friendship were a part of what made every event he was part of successful, including his instrumental work in organizing the 2010 reunion.

In lieu of flowers, Sharon asks that you please make a donation to your favourite charity.

P.J. Peyton

Lieutenant-Colonel

Commanding Officer

Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians)

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This was am email Sharon sent to about 30 of our family and special friends. The evening was well attended and there were lots of good memories of Bob shared among family and friends.

Hi all,

One of Bob's wishes was to have a get together for our families and

special friends at our house to eat, drink and celebrate his life.

Please join us any time after 6:00 PM on Saturday Feb 22nd at our house to

help celebrate.

Open bar on Bob.......

Sharon

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Bob was born on Friday June 7th, 1946 at 10:45 AM in the Civic hospital in Ottawa Ontario, didn't go home until June 15th.. Weighed in at Seven lbs, Eleven oz. His mother described him "a full-moon round face, long dark hair and a peach complexion". Dark blue eyes that turned to brown Resembled his Daddy and four brothers. He was the youngest of 5 boys to Nelda (Lindblad) and Harry Lett. In his baby book his mother wrote "Bobby Robert Stanley. being a nice name, so thought his Mother and Dad."

Sharon was born on Sunday November 23, 1952 at 8:42 PM in the Medicine Hat, Alberta Maternity Hospital. Weighed in at Seven lbs, 2.5 oz., height 19.5 in with Black hair. My Mom wasn't as good at doing the entries so that's all you get.

Bob's early years

by Barry Lett

Bob brother Barry (4th son) wrote what he remembered about "Bob - early years"

Bob was the last of five boys born to Harry and Nelda Lett in the summer of 1946 and was brought home to the family house in Ottawa, at 2 Clarey Avenue in the Glebe district near Landsdowne Park.

Bob’s first grade school was the very trendy First Avenue Public School; however Bob had limited success there because his older brothers scared him by telling him that the Principal was going to kidnap him and the teachers were all witches and the janitor in the basement was really the big, bad “Boogie-Man”. That may be why thereafter, Bob never did like school.

We all had good times walking back and forth to school, cutting through neighbours’ yards and lanes always trying not to get caught. On particularly cold and wet days it was nice to have two convenience stores en-route to break the cold and allow us an opportunity to get warm and buy the hard black ball candies or liquorice ‘Black Babies’ to get us home.

At the very end of our dead-end street, there was a 40 foot drop off and a very secure 4 foot steel post and chain link fence across the end. Bob’s early training was enhanced by empirical learning when advised by his older siblings to lick the cold frozen chain link fence causing a lot of activity by the mom and swift thawing of the fence with warm water to get his tongue to release from the metal. This also put his mother solidly on his side in any and all future adventures with those siblings.

On annual family vacations to South Carolina and Florida to visit aunts, uncles and cousins, Bob being the youngest, and therefore the smallest, was regularly shuttled from front seat to back seat to any available seat, such as someone’s knees. He didn’t get a window seat until he was 10 or more and the other brothers were too old to come along.

In 1954, when Bob was eight, we moved to Cole Avenue in the west end of Ottawa. He quickly made friends with the neighbours and school mates and other participants in various sports activities in the park at the end of the street. Bob became quite an accomplished hockey player and baseball player and made lots of friends. Bob attended Churchill Public School, then Broadview Public School. The older boys were into dating and work by this time and out of the inner circle of family life at the kitchen table and in the car for trips.

After five more years the family (now only with four boys as Don was married) moved further west to Iris Street in Belair Park, where Bob completed his elementary schooling at J. H. Putnam and then moved on to Laurentian High School. High school was not to Bob’s liking at all, so he chose to not attend classes and made a concerted effort to expand his circle of friends and activities outside of formal schooling.

Bob loved the lakes, rivers, trees and rocks of Ontario while growing up. The family had a cottage on the Ottawa River in Deschenes (Quebec) but after it was sold there was usually a rented cottage on Dalhousie Lake or Mississippi Lake in the Ottawa area. A lot of swimming, rock diving, boating and fishing, as well as beach lounging filled most summer days. As he grew into his teens a number of friends had cottages and invited him along for holidays, with and without supervision, better beach parties and more good friends.

In his late teens, he focused on his interests to travel and adventure. With limited opportunity for this in Ottawa, he enlisted in the military and started his service career, making many more friends and getting lots of training and travel all of which he thoroughly enjoyed.

This expansion of his interests and experience, with travel across Canada and eventually to Europe and Asia led to Bob maturing away from home and Ottawa (a long sought objective). These were good years for Bob, giving him training and confidence, as well as deep and lasting friendships, that he brought back to Canada. Bob then settled in Calgary, and after some time left the military, and after a few more years met and married Sharon Bauer.

Memories of BOB LETT

The MILITARY YEARS

by Bill Wood

I first met Bob in October 1963 in Camp Borden Ont. We were there for basic training. My first impressions were here is a guy with attitude. I was correct, but he soon mellowed, worked very hard at becoming a first class soldier.

We wre in Borden for 6 months then posted to The LORD STRATHCONA'S HORSE (ROYAL CANADIANS). If I remember correctly Bob became a member “A” Squadron and became a loader

operator in a tank crew. In April 1964 we were off to Wainwright for summer concentration. (exercises and Gun camp) 3 months in those days.

Back in Calgary with Bob and I in different Sqns our only contact was after work in the mens canteen.

The following year (1965) after summer concentration Bob and another friend of ours decided to go AWOL and went missing for about 1 month and then turned themselves in to the MP'S at the recruiting depot in Vancouver. They were charged and had to spend 30 days detention at the guard house in Vancouver. It is my understanding that they spent their time playing cards with the MP'S and sleeping.

It was an easy go, they had no kit, so were issued shoes, socks and coveralls. They had good meals at the recruiting depot.

In Dec. 1965 The regiment was posted to Germany. We were in a city called Iserlohn, our base was Fort Beausejour. Bob and I had both been appointed lance cpl's and spent a great deal of time in the cpl's mess and exploring the towns and cities close by.

In Feb. 1966 Bob plus several others including myself were sent on a junior nco's course at Fort Anne in a town called Werl, about 40 minutes from Iserlohn. We were not allowed to leave the area for the first 4 weeks. Bob and I managed to get out and hitch a ride home on a couple of weekends.

From time to time we would get the opportunity to be put in charge of a section of men. On one such occasion Bob was the section commander, his orders were to take us from a predesignated location to RV point where we to meet the others and mount an attach at pre determined time. We were several miles from the RV point on a very dark night. Bob gathered the section together and gave the section the marching plan and route we were going to take. After several hours of trudging thru the darkness (it was so dark we had hold the clothing of the person in front you.) we emerged from the woods. Bob gathered us together and asked does anyone know where we are, well there was a big Barn not far away with yard light over the door. We came right back to where had left from. Now the problem was how do we get the start point for the attack. A decision was made. We went into the nearest village and got a taxi to take us to the start point. As we approached the sky lit up with para-flares. there we were all hunched over and crammed into this taxi, the driver put his foot into it and dropped us off in a ditch several hundred yards further down the road, and we made our way back into the battle. There was a few questions asked but no serious repercussions.

On another exercise Bob was tasked to get a wheelbarrow from a farmers yard to help us get an ammo box full of wet sand from an ambush made on an APC which was supposedly transporting some valuable cargo. The farmer and his son caught up to us about a kilometre down the road and we had to of course give it back. A short time later right at last light we saw a better one and got it all the way back to Fort Anne. The next day in class the MP'S came to our class, we had to tell the farmer where his wheelbarrow was and also pay him for it.

On another occasion while on exercise in a training area called Sennelager , Bob was guard commander, it was his birthday and I felt we should make our way out have camp, find a gasthaus and have few beers . After Bob had made his rounds and made sure that all pickets were on track we made our way out of the field camp by this time it was dark. We found a great little Gasthaus just outside the training area gates. We spent a few hours there making friends with the locals who bought us several beers for Bobs' birthday. When we got back to camp we noticed there was a lot of activity around the command post. Bob being the good soldier he was approached the vehicle and asked what was happening Well one of the officers was missing and they had been searching for him for some time Bob was lucky once again as his guard was covering for him.

Bob was a great friend. He spent a lot of time in the winter months playing cpl's mess hockey and attending the Regimental hockey team games. He was always busy and a very happy guy. I have nothing but fond memories Bob.

I am sure at the next reunion in 2015 there will be many stories shared with Bob being the main subject of conversation .

Sharon's early years

Sharon was the middle child of Fran and Emil Bauer with an older sister Janet and younger brother Randy. Emil was a mechanic and after a number of years working for others he started his own business. Working 6 days a week left little time for the family but he always managed to take them camping and on day trips. When Sharon was 17, to everyone's surprise the family went to Hawaii for three weeks with another family. School was a struggle for Sharon but she managed to graduate from Crescent heights High in Medicine in 1970. The best part of school was all the sports activities and road trips to tournaments. After grad Sharon took a position at a small country hospital in Empress Alberta as a nurses aid. This didn't last long as there was

no

We met while both of us were working in Real Estate for Block Brothers. I was the admin assistant with my Realtor's license. and he came in as a Real estate salesman. When I first met him in July 1977 I thought he was very arrogant and thought his last name was funny. Who knew that less than a year later it would be my last name as well. We dated a few times then in November he invited me to spend a week with him at Banff. We rented the little cabins on the road first going in (which have since been knocked down) and froze to death. The heater was broken the fireplace didn't work and it was so cold that cuddling wasn't even enough to keep us warm. The next day we moved to the Tunnel Mountain Chalets and spend the rest of the week there in warmth and comfort. Separate rooms, of course.... While there he kept saying, "when we get married.." I asked him why he kept saying that and his reply was that this had been the longest he had spent with a woman and still liked her so we must get married. That was the closest I got to a proposal. He said I should plan the wedding and just let him know When, Where and What to ware and he would be there. The rest is history.

As with many couples we had up's and downs. when we first got married we moved in to an apartment where we lived for the first 15 years. There were many cereal dinners saving up for our first house. Bob did general construction so there wasn't a regular paycheque but we finally had enough. While living there we spend all our spare time camping at Chancellor Peak near Golden. When we started we had a three man pup tent which prove to be adequate most of the time. It kept us out of the rain and snow while keeping the wolves out that would sniff around it. Fortunately we never encountered a bear. It also survived the tornado that followed the train tracks that were right next to our campsite. There was lots of damage to the trees and area but fortunately no one in the campground was harmed. We then graduated to the gypsy (as Bob called it) tent trailer. it was a step up but a very small step. The adventures continued with a flood of the campground/ The campground was on an island when the Kicking Horse river was high. That particular weekend we were camping with Deb, RD, toddler Jennifer, infant Daniel and RD's sister and brother-in-law Diane and Garry. All of us had tent trailers. The Park Ranger came by to evacuate the campsites and make sure everyone got over the bridge before it was cut off. As usual we all wanted to stay to the last minute. Because the Ranger knew us he agreed but said when the water reaches the marked line on the stake he had put in the ground by the bridge we had better be off the island. We were all busy watching the water rise when someone looked over and the stake was gone and none of us had packed up our trailers yet. We ran over began to throw thing in and take them down. then drove to where the bridge was. We had the big green Chev and smallest trailer so we went first and tested the depth. Fortunately it was OK and everyone got out, however on our say to the highway which was about 1 mile down the road we met the very angry Ranger. He had been helping out other campers and was very upset with us that we waited so long and potentially put our lives and his in danger. He was right and we were wrong to wait so long. There were many other great camping trips there with Deb and RD and kids, George and Hedye, an older couple that became very close to all of us. I can say that the best years of our married lives was when we were camping with friends and spending as much time as we could out in the mountains hiking and having picnics.

Europe 2013

For our 35th anniversary Bob and I went to Europe for 24 days. We wanted to stay away from most major cities and spend time in the small communities to experience the day to day rather than tourist life. I am so happy to say that we accomplished that and I would say it was our best vacation. We flew into Frankfurt and picked up our Mercedes SUV which was great except for the fact that is was a Eco car. Every time we stopped at an intersection we thought it had died. I'm not sure if Bob ever got use to it because he was still swearing at it at the end of the vacation.

We drove directly from the airport to Rothenburg, Germany in the pounding rain. Just what Bob needed after a 9.5 hours flight. When we arrived we checked into the Eisenhut Hotel. This was our second stay there. The Christmas store across the street was still a fun place to visit. We also returned to the bakery up the one narrow street to get out fresh coffee and pretzel (along with a few other pastries). After two nights we headed south east to the Altstadthotel Weisse Traub in old town Salzburg, Austria. 2013 was the year of floods. You will see a pattern as I journal our 2013 vacations. Our original it's army included a one night stay in Passau, Germany but something tomd me we didn't need to go there so I cancelled. When we woke up the next morning in Salzburg there was a threat of a flood and the news reported that the entire village of Passau was flooded. Glad I went with my gut feeling and cancelled. We walked down to the river and the water was right up to the banks. We knew that was high because when we were there before the river was over a meter lower. We were a little worried about the car. We had booked parking in the garage of the hotel but it was underground and was flooded. They had to put us in the Hospital parkade which was half a block from the river and was also underground. Bob said we would go eat and if the river was still rising we would find a spot above ground. When we went back to check the authorities said the river had created so after checking the car and only seeing minor puddling we left it there. Our three nights in Salzburg were wonderful. It was still rainy but staying in old town was great. We could borrow the yellow umbrellas from the hotel and walk everywhere we wanted to go. We stumbled on a little pub restaurant called the Golden Ewn (duck). I have always loved ducks (not to eat) so we went in for dinner. It turned out to be our favourite restaurant on our vacation. Our anniversary was the next day so that was the place to go. We tried to drive south to "The Eagles Nest" but after sneaking around one barricade and coming to the second we decided we shouldn't press our luck. We stopped in a small village and after walking around a couple blocks I asked some locals for directions to the Information office. The sign was clear but the office was down a narrow walkway, up some stairs and around the corner. They don't make it easy especially when they don't speak English in a lot of the small villages. They said that there was still snow and part of the road had been washed out. Bob was glad to see me return, he had stayed at the car and I had been gone for about 15 minutes. He was worried I was lost and wasn't going to return. Now that I think of it, not sure if he was glad or sad to see me. It was still early in the day so we headed north of Salzburg to the village Xxxxxx to the little church where the song "silent night" was written. This was our second visit there. There had been a lot of flooding in the area and when we got to Xxxxx. A couple of the roads were still flooded but it was low enough for us to drive thru. We couldn't drive down to the church so we parked on higher ground and walked in. When we got there the fire department and army was there helping the community clean up, fortunately the church is in a little hill and wasn't effected at all. The cafe below that we had stopped at last time was full of water. They were trying to get the doors open to drain out the water but couldn't. We heard the owner tell the firefighter to break it down o they could get in. Even though they were dealing with a disaster they were still laughing and trying to make the best of it. My hopes for the near future are to return to Salzburg and rent an apartment for a month. My grandmother was born in Austria and I have a strong urge to return.

Up the next morning for the 2.5 hour drive west thru Austria then back into Germany to Garmish-Partenkirchen. The 2.5 turned into 7 hours. Our plan was to take the autobahn but as son as we left Salzburg we were detoured North because it had been flooded out. As we drove the GPS in the car kept trying to get is to turn back south but I had a map and there was a large lake between us and the autobahn and the truckers were staying on the detour road which was leading to Munich. It was a long slow drive because all the traffic from the 3/4 lake autobahn was now on a single lane country road. I felt sorry for the people in the communities. All this traffic cutting them off and not stopping to spend any money in their community. After heading south west again from Munich Bob needed to get some food or he would crash and burn. I hate McDonalds a swore I would never eat in one but the first restaurant we saw was a McDonalds. Not knowing when we would see another place to eat we stopped. It wasn't bad but it won't happen again. After a burger and little cat nap Bob was ready to carry on. We were so glad to see our hotel the Best Western Obermuhle that night. Thank goodness they had a restaurant. Quick bite to eat then off to relax. Garmish-Parkenkirchen is the Banff/Canmore of Germany. It was great, here and in Salzburg we kept seeing the older generation in the authentic dress. We were wandering around the downtown of Garmish and I spotted a store that displayed the authentic dress ware. Bob found a shady spot (rain finally stopped) and I ventured in. OMG not only is it clothing but a Fabric store with the authentic fabrics. I zipped out and told him to get comfortable, I was going to be awhile. I bought a few small pieces of fabric, a few unique buttons and some lace. Next time we were downtown Bob insisted that I go back and buy more....

The Zugspitz is the highest point in Germany so we had to venture to the top. We caught the train and travelled for about 45 minutes. The last 39 minutes is in a tunnel that takes you thru the mountain to the top. Little freaky but we made it up and back down safe and sound. It was a beautiful view from the top. There is a little church up there that people hike to shock I did.

Coin laundry mats are not easy to fine in Europe but before we went I did some searching the there was one about 2 blocks away from the hotel. Bob wanted to have a nap so I packed up the dirty cloths and a book and hiked down. The lady that ran it didn't speak English but I managed to relay that I need soap and two washers. She gave me some soap for free and helped me operate the washers and dryer. No more smelly Bob and Sharon.

From there we travelled west thru Germany to Meersburg to the Hotel Baren. Like Salzburg you are not allowed to take your car into the town centre unless someone unlocks the gate which they did so we could drop off our luggage. In Salzburg we were given a code to enter and the large pillar in the middle of the road would sink into the road and you drive in then it reappears. Meersburg is on Lake Constance which is bordered by Germany, Switzerland and Austria. Fun place but out hotel was at the top of a very long steep hill. We walked down and back up once and bob said he wouldn't be doing that again. There was a parking lot ab the bottom just off to the side of the shops and restaurants so we took the car from then on. I walked a couple times on my own when Bob was having is routine afternoon nap. We found a really nice restaurant that had outside tables on the water that we went to a couple times. We celebrated Bob's 67th birthday there.

We both wanted to go to Liechtenstein, which is one of the 5 smallest countries in the world and where people hide huge amounts of money because there are no taxes. We drove down to the dock, got on the Ferry in Germany and dot off in Switzerland about 20 minutes later. Then drove east along the river then south a little way then east into Vadu Liechtenstein. It's a very small country and Vade is the capital. We wandered around and found the very inconspicuous sign for THE bank. No need to go in, no money there for us. Stopped at a little cafe for a coffee and piece of apple pie. Bob asked the young pretty waitress where she learned such good English. She said she had spend some time in Canada a couple years ago. It turned out that she started in Vancouver and then spent most of her time in Calgary. Not only a small country, but a small works. On our way back we drove back into Switzerland thru the border crossing (one of very few) into Austria then back to Meersburg Germany. Four countries in 8 hours. Not bad. The next day we drove to 10 minutes west to Interlogen. This is a very small village on the lake. We spent some time wandering around then were in need of lunch. I had seen a seafood restaurant up a narrow street about 2 blocks from the lake. We checked out there menu but is wasn't that interesting. I looked kitty corner and saw a structure that resembled a carport. It was a restaurant and was very busy with locals. We headed over and found a seat next to a couple. Over there you don't sit at your own table you share. They were very pleasant and we're trying to carry on a conversation in German. Bob asked if the man spoke English and he said a little. The menu was in german so we were trying to decide what to have. The man asked if he could help. He started to try and translate but I stopped him and asked what his wife had. He showed me on the menu. After a little more fumbling over language I know what we needed. I went up to the window to order and the man asked Bob if he should go help me. Bob said I would be Ok but it was nice of him to offer. It was obvious that the couple had finished but we're waiting around to make sure we got what we needed. When they called my number the man smiled and said that was me. I got out orders and we thanked them again for all their help.and enjoyed our delicious meal. It was such a nice experience and we were so glad we had decided to spend this vacation away from the tourist areas. After the couple left the other man at out table got up, said good by, walked across the street and went into his home. Definitely a place for locals and excellent food. We also did the boat cruse on the lake to Uberlingen. Bob loved the lake area and boats.

We received a number of emails and letters from family and friends. These emails are from the heart and it is important that they be part of this tribute to Bob.

Bob

I have been giving this a lot of thought since your email message about your diagnosis. I can’t begin to tell you how deeply affected by this I am and there are some things I want to tell you before it’s too late as I will never forgive myself. Of all the people that have been in my life you are my favourite. I have looked up to you, respected and admired you since I was a little kid. The way you treated not only myself but everyone around you and could make them feel comfortable was one of your finest attributes. You may not know or feel this way but you have been an amazing influence in my life and I want to thank you. I am so happy that I got to name one of my sons after you and I will do everything I can to make sure he lives up to the name. I was really hoping my sons would get to know you, at least for a little while so when they hear all my stories they would have reference. My memories of you and us are all good ones and nothing will change that. Saying I am going to miss you is an understatement but I will always have the forthcoming tube socks to remind me. I am looking forward to seeing you this weekend and every chance until we must say goodbye.

With Love,

Jeff

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Hello Auntie Sharon,

I'm so sorry to hear about Uncle Bob's passing. I hope you can find comfort in remembering the great times you had together and knowing that his suffering is over. I know I'm a little further away, but if there is anything I can do please let me know. All the best in the coming weeks. You're constantly on mind and I wish you all the strength in this difficult time. I love you lots.

Sincerely,

Daniel

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February 12, 2014

Hello Auntie Sharon and Uncle Bob,

I'm sorry for being selfish and putting this off for so long. I wish I was writing under better circumstances. I'm terrible when these times arrive. Especially when it involves the people that have been with me throughout my whole life and shaped me into the person that I have become today. You two have not travelled very far from my thoughts over the last two weeks since my parents told me the unfortunate news. Although we have not always stayed in touch as much as I would like to have, I want you to know that you both are two of the most special people that have been in my life. There are so many fond memories I have of us over the last 28 years and I would like to share some of them with you two.

• I can't remember how many times we made the trek out West to a special place in all of our hearts, but Chancellor Peak will go down as one of my favourite places of all time. It probably had something to do with all the great people that we would meet up with out there and the adventures that we would go on. There were great times had at Wapta Falls, walking the tracks or making the world famous 'Poptarts' (Jennifer said she forgot to mention this one). I still always pack a sandwich iron and the ingredients for poptarts. I just can't make them as good as I remember having them though. Whenever I have driven past the bend in the highway, the memories with you two always pop into mind.

• Christmas was a little different this year since Kathleen and I spent our first Christmas together up here in GP. It must have been due to our tradition growing up, but I always get excited decorating the tree. I was always excited for when you guys would come over to decorate and vise versa. Thankfully, I will cherish that for my future Christmas' and always think of that great tradition. It was always a lot of fun.

• Around that time of year, we went out to Banff a few years in a row to attend the brunch at the Banff Springs in early December. We would get on our 'church' clothes and head out to the spiffy buffet. I don't think we ever went home hungry Sometimes I would take the trip with you two in the grey Oldsmobile (I believe it was). I may have fallen asleep once or twice. I know I did once in the minivan that Uncle Bob had at one point. I'm not sure where we were going that time. Spending that time together was always neat and exciting to me.

• After Christmas, Jennifer and I's birthday's would soon be upon us. The birthday dinners that you two would take us on will always stick with me as a special tradition. It was such a big deal to us because WE would get to choose where to go! I imagine sometimes you two were good sports due to the restaurants that we picked. I forget the one restaurant that we chose a couple of times on MacLeod down near where Ranchman's is now. They had a dessert at this restaurant that had dry ice with it. I forget what it was, but you made sure we didn't touch it until it was all evaporated. I also remember getting a Nerf bow'n'arrow from you two for one of my birthday's. It still is one of my favourite presents that I received!

• From what I can remember, you two lived in an apartment building (it was green, I want to say off Elbow?), the Sundance bungalow near the lake and then Chaparral. Am I missing any?

• In the apartment building I remember always getting small individually wrapped candies! They were always an exciting bonus when we came to visit you there. The Sundance house has a lot of memories! Remember your shitty neighbours and how terrible of pet owners they were? I think that was a reason that Cinder, Jasmine and Shelby lucked out with you two as owners. It would be disappointing if I came over and there weren't doughnuts on the counter, but that wouldn't happen too often :) I remember once you, Uncle Bob or maybe it was Sharon, getting mad at me because I was too close to the TV screen and you didn't want my pesky little fingers greasing up the screen with finger prints. At one point Uncle Bob got a new blue truck. It had an extended cab part in the back that almost was a like a little shelf from what I remember. I remember cruising the streets with him, Shelby in the back and myself. (Writing this now, I really wish we could go back to those times.)

• Living in the Sundance house we started a fun tradition of going skating at the lake. It was a great time because we all did this activity together. They lit the park up with so many lights and it was really nice skating around the lake trying to see how fast we could go. We did do it again once you moved across 22X to Chaparral, but I think we only did it once.

• When Jennifer and I were old enough, we started cross country skiing. I have since tried to go the train station in May to get one of their hot chocolates, but it was closed. There wasn't anything better than getting a cheeseburger and hot chocolate after skiing from the Chateau at Lake Louise to the train station. That was a nice trail through the snow covered trees and over the babbling brooks underneath us. The air was crisp, but made us enjoy our hot chocolate that much more!

• When we would come home from Tom's Cabin in the States I always remember stopping at the duty free to get Uncle Bob a carton of green Export A's. Without fail every time we would stop to get cheap smokes.

• I don't really remember a whole lot of the project, but Uncle Bob, you were a big help when my dad built the garage. I know he will be hurting losing a great friend like you. You were always there for us.

• Way back we all use to go the New Year's Eve hockey game against the Montreal Canadians. Those were great memories! We would always have a great time up in the nose bleeds! And again Uncle Bob, you were there for my 18th birthday party when you, my dad, Pat, my buddy Richard and I went to the game. I think I could only drink one beer because of the night before. It sucks now wishing there was another chance to have a couple of beers or rums together. Makes me really cherish the time we did have together.

Jennifer and I were chatting a bit tonight and another memory popped into her mind. It was from the times that we would drive out on highway 22 to a random spot along the road. We stopped and hiked in from the road to a hidden gem. It was such a secluded and nice spot to enjoy a day on the river when we couldn't make it all the way out to Chancellor Peak. I would like to find that place again one day to see if it is anything like I remember. She also mentioned the mornings that we would have at Eaton's. I would have been disappointed if I had forgot about that one when writing this. I remember always getting chocolate milk there and maybe a long john doughnut if my memory is correct?

After writing these memories down, I begin to realize just how involved you two were in our lives growing up. We could not have asked for better God Parents. I owe you two an apology and email is a shitty way of doing it. But I wanted to apologize to you Uncle Bob and Auntie Sharon for not calling you two as soon as I found out I had got the job that I have always wanted. To forget two of my biggest supporters from day one is unacceptable and I have kicked myself about it since then. I am truly sorry.

Uncle Bob, I wish I talked to you more about your days in the military. I would have loved to hear your stories. The good and the bad. You lit up with excitement talking about some of your experiences in Europe the few times that we did get on the topic. One story you got talking about was when you were in Germany speeding around in some really nice car when you had some time off. I am glad that you and Auntie Sharon were able to go over and travel to some of your favourite spots.

Before I started writing this email I did't think it would be very tough. I thought oh my job has prepared me for times like this, but that is so far from the truth. I haven't cried this much in a long time, but I needed it. I've had a string of some of the worst calls so far in my career over the last month. If there is one thing I can be grateful for, it is the fact that I can send you this email and let you know how important you have been to me. I will never forget the great person that I was able to call my God Father and Uncle. Your personality was fun and addicting. I always looked up to you and still do, you always made me smile and I always looked forward to your visits. I will miss you tremendously. Thank you for supporting and believing in me. I will never forget you. I love you so much. Rest easy.

Love always,

Daniel MacLean

*

February 11, 2014

Hi Uncle Bob and Auntie Sharon!

I just wanted to E-mail you and say hi. I've been thinking about both of you so often recently and I apologize that it's taken me this long to write to you.

I wish there was something I could do or say that would be helpful, but I'm really glad it sounds like my mom and dad have been able to set up and help you both take care of things that need to happen....like Jasmine! :)

I know you're not up for visitors, so I thought I'd write you instead. This way you can read it, lots of times (hopefully I make sense and don't have any typos!) Also you can read it when you're feeling up to do, and don't have to have a pretend conversation when all you really want to do is nap. :)

So....in no particular order at all, here are some of my favourite memories.

-going to Costco and Uncle Bob taking Daniel and I around to sample all of their lovely cuisine. Best shopping trips ever. I still think of you (Uncle Bob) when I see samples at Costco....although it's not NEARLY the same as an adult.

-camping in general, but I always loved getting to go in your car for drives to Field, or whatever random picnic location we were going to. You had a tree air freshener. I liked how it smelled. (I smell that smell and I think of you to this day!)

-birthday dinners! We kept it classy at a ripe young age by going to McDonalds and Pizza Hut. You are Saints. I can't believe you agreed, and most importantly ate with us. My stomach hurts now just thinking about it. But it was delicious. Plus.....Pizza Hut had the dessert buffet, and you let us get it! Big Time Bonus!

-playing with Shelby as a puppy....she was cute and fluffy and so small at first! Remember when she wouldn't go pee on the grass when the snow started to melt because she didn't know she could pee on grass? :) I bet see would be loving this ice cold weather right now. Complete opposite of Moose!

-the past two Christmas'. Thank you for helping make Christmas not so weird without Daniel in town. I like our new tradition. :) I liked other Christmas' as well....but dinner with you makes it better!

-hearing you laughing during card games when I was supposed to be sleeping. I don't really remember why I was awake anymore. Maybe your laughter woke me up, or maybe I was still up because I was reading. Either way, still good memories.

-always talking to us like we were normal humans. ... you never talked to us like we were kids. Thank you!! I was always excited when you were coming over, because something funny would be said. Maybe you censored what was said when kids were around, but at least you weren't talking about boring stuff that we didn't understand. :) And maybe you still were talking about boring stuff, but the way you said it made it sound funny.

I'm sure I'm missing a bunch more things, but I needed to tell you before I forget (I have a bad habit of forgetting.) I'm too young for that, aren't I?!

Take care, and talk soon!

Love Jennifer

*

I know Bob, Sharon and myself had this on going joke about no socks. In fact when my daughter was born, I received a baby blanket loaded with baby socks! I had thought of putting a pair in his coffin, if he had one. Or at least I would check his feet to make sure his feet were warm.

It was so wonderful having him here in Alberta. It made my move to Alberta feel like I was moving to my second home. I enjoyed meals out and BBQ's at our place.

I am really gonna miss the bear hugs and his words of encouragement, and the "hey kiddo".

I look forward to the bear hug I will receive in the hearafter, only he will have it perfected. Love you Uncle Bob

Karen H Goelema

Bob's Niece

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Sharon, Tomorrow being the toughest Day of your life, I wanted you to know that we are thinking of you here and wishing we could be there with you. Happier times from the summer visit with all the uncles here and as we want to remember Uncle Bob always with a big smile on his face..... Really loved that we could make that happen. Big Hugs to you and may beautiful memories help get you through the day!

Love always Vicki

Bob's Niece

Just wanted you to know we are all thinking about you and sending you warm hugs. Family and friends will get you through this with love and support. Love Vicki Please give uncle bob big hugs from me to my favourite uncle❤️❤️

**

Hey lady,

Sorry I haven't emailed in a while. Just been in lots of pain so keeping myself drugged up and knocked as much as possible.

There isn't a day that I don't think about you and wonder how you are doing. I saw the video which was beautiful. What a gorgeous bride you were. I swear you don't age! I found it hard to get through.

I am so pleased to hear of the turnout for his funeral was great. I am not surprised one bit he was such an easy going smart ass that could make any one feel completely at ease. He was the best. I hope you don't mind that I sent flowers. It was my way of being there because you guys mean so much to me.

You know I bet it was Uncle Bob trying to bust out of that urn that cause the crack and make it to his favourite place in the mountain. I would not put it past him!

Luv ya girl and just take it one day or one hour if need be at a time to get through it. You are part of our family and will always be. You are never alone. Prayers you got them always.

Lori

*

I got to know Bob quite well over the past couple of years. Hw was so full of hischief with a twinkel in his eye every time you knew he was up to no good. i especially remember times when i would pick up Sharon to out, Bob would say to me 'look after my girl for me and you two have fun' he always had that special loving look for Sharon.

bob was a kin, big hearted, decent, caring and loving gentleman and I will miss him deeply,

Linda Shepel

A very Dear Friend.

*

We want to thank you for letting us know about Bob. It was so kind of you to think of phoning us when you are going through so much. I cant imagine what the last month has been like for you and the family. Our hearts go out to you and your families, such a short time after diagnosis barely gives you time to take it in. We always looked forward to our visits and just cant imagine a visit without him. He had such a love for you and life it made it so uplifting to get together. We are still both in tears and can hardly talk about it but we want you to know we really wish we could be there on Saturday. We will be there in thought and hope you have a nice day for the service. Our love to you, I know you have family to help you through but I still wish we could be there.

Our love to you - Marion and Bill

Friends

*

Hi Aunt Sharon and Uncle Bob,

Dad has been keeping me up-to-date on what's going on. There are no words to express how my heart breaks for you both right now. I couldn't imagine how you are feeling.

I want you to know, that I am here for you in everything and anything you could possibly need.

I'd very much like to come by if that's ok. I tried to call a couple times, but the phone was busy. I know you're probably not wanting a whole lot of visitors at the moment. But please let me know when would be ok. I only live in McKenzie Towne, so anytime is fine, if only for a short while. Here's my cell: 403-826-2979, call me anytime.

Again, please let me know if you need anything.

My love and prayers are with you both.

All my Love,

Kate Sharon's Niece

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Sharon,

I hope you find strength knowing that Bob won't be suffering any more. I'm sorry I can't be closer to help you out. When I am home next time I will be sure to make a visit. Our house is always open. I'm thinking about you always and sending positive thoughts your way. Thank you for helping Uncle Bob through this last month. I wish these weren't the circumstances for writing to you. All the best in the days ahead. I love you.

Thinking of you two,

Dear Sharon, Barry has been keeping us up to date. We send our love and prayers to Bob and yourself. Hoping that the doctors can help with Bob's pain and discomfort. We are in such shock, as we thought Bob looked great when we saw him at Barry and Linda's at Christmas.

You must be so exhausted.

Give Bob a hug for us xoxo Brian & Claire

***

This was an email the President of the Strathcona's sent to the members.

Strathconians,

I am happy to report that we had many members of the Strathcona’s Regimental association attend our friend and comrade Bob lett’s funeral. It was well attended by much of his extended family and by many of his and his wife’s friends. The Padre, Father Green, officiated and did the service and kept us all on task. We made a good show for Sharon and her family and friends as we all had our private moment placing a poppy beside his Urn and the family and most in the chapel followed suit. I was asked to do the eulogy on the behalf of the Association and then asked to read other messages of remembrance on the Family’s behalf by his wife, Sharon. So near the end of the Service, Father Green called me up and I read the pages of Remembrance and our Association Eulogy. I am pleased to say that Sharon and many of his family came up to me saying how well it was done and how they appreciated the presence and participation of the members from the Strathcona’s Association.

I would personally want the thank Sharon Lett and her family for inviting us , members of the Strathcona’s Horse Regimental Association, to be present and to participate in the celebration of Bob’s life and to show them how much the members, his friends, liked him and appreciated all of the qualities that he brought to our meetings and to the Association. Thank you, and thank you again Sharon.

Clair Lane – President – Calgary Branch - Lord Strathcona’s Horse (RC) Regimental Association

Howie Owen from the Strathcona's

February 16

Sharon, I want to express my Sincere Condolences on the loss of Bob. My friend was just that guy who was always one who would light up a room or anywhere the guys were gathered. He and I had many personal one on one’s so we could see who could insult the other the best but, it was always with a great amount of respect for each other. And by the way, he still owe’s me a Beer and has since the Reunion in Edmonton in 2010.

As a Veteran member of the Straths, he could always be counted on to be there at Events and Meeting of our Association. As the President of the Association, he made it easy for me to replace him in 2010. Bob, I know that you are listening, we Love you and will miss you but the Guys you hung with “Will Always Remember You My Friend”

I will be at the Service.

Howie Owen

*****

Spook Spence from the Strathcona's

February 17

Sharon, l am at a loss for words on the passing of Bob, l've known Bob since he first came into the Strathcona's, and considered myself and my wife Gloria personal friends of his.Sharon. If there is anything we can do for you, please let us know.

Garnett(spook) Gloria Spence,

***

Keith and Mary from the Strathcona's

February 16

Hi Sharon:

Mary and I are so very sorry to learn about Bob's passing. He was a great man and loved him very much. If we can do anything for you please let us know.

*

Sharon

Thanks for the hello. Sorry to tell you that #2 of the coffee group Lou Pomerance passed away yesterday (Monday) in Phoenix AZ. Lou and his wife Edith for the first time in years went south and I was told they were having the time of their life when Lou suddenly took ill, it was over fairly quick I'm told. Now all these guys meeting up in another world is sure to cause the odd Thunder storm. Anyway I'm still in wonder over Bob's passing I had no idea that he was not well and thought he kept it to himself so not to alarm or upset any one. Bob was fun and I will miss his jokes and stories.

Good luck to you and family as you go forward, if there is any assistance I can offer or provide please ask me.

All the best

Wayne Bobroff, from the morning coffee group

*

Linda Hopkins, Bob's Wayfinder partner at the South Health Campus.

My very deepest condolences Sharon. I am so glad you with him when he passed. He was truly a wonderful fun loving person to share my rewarding moments with doing our wayfinding. We shared lots of laughs!

Will sure miss him!

God bless you.

Hugs ' Linda

*

Sharon,

My deepest sympathy to you for your tragic loss. My heart goes out to you. May knowing that Bob loved you dearly and had a wonderful life with you give you some comfort in this difficult time.

With sorrow and love,

Susan Stevenson

Co-worker at Agrium

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Sharon,

It was a shock when I heard about the passing of Bob. I heard about it in early March from Betty. I have been thinking about you and Bob since I heard the news and wanted to offer you and the rest of his family my deepest sympathy. Although I had not seen Bob for a couple of years I remember him well from the old company events. He was a very outgoing and personable man with a great sense of humour. Hopefully I will see you sometime in the future. Please drop by the office sometime for a coffee and a visit when you feel right.

All the best.

John Miller

Co-worker at Agrium

*

Sharon, I am so sorry to hear that. You have some wonderful memories together - I will keep you in my thoughts and will let Betty know.

Thanks for letting me know and sincere sympathy!!!

Bonnie Miller

Co-worker at Agrium

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Sharon,

Thank you for asking Bonnie to let me know, there are no words.

God gives us many gifts and Bob was certainly one of His special ones.

He was always so much fun to be around, I will truly miss his wit and loving charm.

I know that there is little I can say to console you but please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.

Please call any time or let me know if I can do anything for you.

Your friend always,

Betty Zimmer

Co-worker at Agrium

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Sharon,

I just learned of Bob's passing today and wanted to express my condolences to you. I didn't know Bob very well, but the few times over the years that I did speak with him, I always went away with the thought of what a nice guy he seemed to be, great sense of humour and a lot of fun.

It's difficult to lose someone close, especially a spouse, and I want you to know our thoughts and prayers are with you.

My apologies for sending this via Email, however Marce and I are in the south of Argentina and this is basically our only practical way of communicating.

George & Marce

George was CIO at Agrium when he retired

*

Hi Sharon

Bonnie called me last Friday and told me about your loss. I was shocked to hear of Bob’s passing. I had no idea he was not well. Sharon he was a good man. I always enjoyed visiting with him and eager to hear a good story about you. He had a calming demeanour that made you feel like you knew him forever. Bonnie mentioned that you and Bob were able to do a bit of travelling, I am so glad that you had the chance to spend some good quality time in the past year. I was always wondering what you two were up to as I had not heard from you since you walked out the door.

I pray he passed peacefully and did not suffer. I've been thinking about you lots and pray you are finding the comfort you need. If and when you feel up to it shoot me an email and we can meet for lunch sometime.

My Deepest Sympathy

Wendy Grace

Co-worker at Agrium

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* * * * * * * * * *

Robert “Bob” Stanley beloved husband of Sharon Lett, passed away quietly on Friday, February 14, 2014 at the age of 67 years. Bob was a man who loved life. One of his finest attributes was the way he treated everyone around him and his ability to make them feel comfortable.

Bob will be deeply missed by his wife Sharon, brothers Don (Bev) Lett, Al (Elinor) Lett, Mel (Anne) Lett, Barry (Janet) Lett and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, George and Nelda Lett. Bob was born and raised in Ottawa, Ontario. He joined the military at an early age and was a member of the Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians) and was president of the association for a number of years. He held numerous jobs in Calgary and most recently Bob and Sharon joined the volunteer staff at the South Health Campus. This volunteer role brought him great satisfaction as it gave him the opportunity to meet new people and offer assistance to them at a potentially hard time. Sharon and Bob were married in Medicine Hat on June 3, 1978 and have lived in Calgary since then.

A Memorial Service for Bob will be held at SOUTH CALGARY FUNERAL CENTRE, 12700 Macleod Trail South, (at Lake Fraser Gate) Calgary on Saturday, February 22, 2014 at 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity near and dear to your heart.