Rob Laidlaw Calgary Alberta Obituary: The city of Calgary and beyond is mourning the loss of beloved community icon Rob Laidlaw, who passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, January 5, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Known affectionately as “Mr. Stampede,” Laidlaw’s legacy is one of unparalleled generosity, community spirit, and a passion for Western heritage.
Rob Laidlaw was a larger-than-life figure in Calgary, renowned for his tireless efforts to celebrate and preserve the traditions of the Calgary Stampede while giving back to the community. Among his many contributions, he spearheaded the fundraising campaign for the iconic bronze bull sculpture that now proudly stands across from the Alberta Stock Exchange. This statue, symbolizing Calgary’s deep connection to its Western roots, remains a testament to Laidlaw’s dedication to honoring the province’s heritage.
Through his chuckwagon charity group, “The Posse,” and his legendary annual “Laidlaw” Stampede parties, Rob raised significant funds for local charities, leaving an indelible mark on the community. His events became synonymous with Calgary’s charitable spirit, drawing attendees from across Alberta, Montana, and Arizona to support causes close to his heart.
Beyond his public endeavors, Rob Laidlaw was a man of deep personal virtues. He was known for his unwavering kindness, often described as having a “heart of gold.” A devoted family man, Rob cherished time spent with his loved ones and was equally devoted to his furry companions, earning him a reputation as an enthusiastic dog lover.
Rob’s love for the Western lifestyle extended to his unwavering support for the Calgary Stampede and the cowboy community. He was also a passionate fan of the Dallas Cowboys, proudly sporting his team’s colors wherever he went.
Laidlaw’s influence stretched far beyond Calgary, earning him legendary status in Montana and Arizona, where he was equally celebrated for his warmth, philanthropy, and commitment to the Western way of life.
The loss of Rob Laidlaw leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who knew him. Tributes have poured in from across the province and beyond, with many remembering his infectious energy, generosity, and ability to bring people together for a greater cause.
“Rob embodied the spirit of Calgary,” said longtime friend and fellow Stampede supporter John Avery. “He was the glue that held so much of our community together, always working to lift others up and bring joy to everyone around him. He truly was ‘Mr. Stampede.’”
Rob Laidlaw is survived by his loving family, whose privacy is being respected during this difficult time. Details of a memorial service and Funeral Arrangements will be announced in the coming days, with the community expected to come together in large numbers to celebrate his remarkable life.
In his memory, donations can be made to local Calgary charities, ensuring that Rob’s legacy of giving back continues for years to come.
Rob Laidlaw may have ridden off into the sunset, but his contributions to Calgary and his indomitable spirit will live on forever. He will be remembered not only as “Mr. Stampede” but as a man whose love for his community, family, and Western heritage knew no bounds.
He was the Vice President, Director at Acumen Capital Partners Calgary, Alberta Rob-Laidlaw-Cowboys-Posse-Party.
To Rob family ,vast network of friends and associates I wish you all the fondest of memories of a life well lived, and very possibly…, several lives well lived, a huge personality within the Calgary landscape, of the last four decades and even greater personality, and the many people committees and Calgary stampede , philanthropic Rob champion over the years. Like to thank Rob for being a friend of the Calgary stampede divot classic golf tournament, in support of the Calgary stampede foundation youth programs over the past two decades as one of many of Rob‘s contributions to our community.
It’s a sad day, however wish all the best of fondest memories of an amazing man in our community gone too soon
Hi Tasha, on behalf of the Laidlaw family I’d like to kindly request you remove this article. We would like to represent my father in the way in which we would like him represented. We lost him less than 24 hours ago and this is incredibly disrespectful.