In memorium – Bob Leese

Obituary provided by Bob’s family:

Our hearts are filled with sorrow as we mourn the loss of Robert, ‘Bob’ Leese (affectionately known as ‘Moose’) who passed away peacefully on Friday, June 28, 2024 at the age of 88.

Only son of Alfred and Kathleen Leese, Bob leaves behind his wife of 40 years, Nadya Leese, sister Bev Cullen (Ron), his children Grant (Kristi). Lindsay (Lee) and Jeff (Blaire), his adopted son Nolan (Fernanda), step daughter (Danene), grandchildren Amber, Zoe, Emma, and Mason, step-grandchildren Chanelle, Hudson and Brooke and great step- grandchild Gigi. Bob was predeceased by his stepson Colin, and the mother of his children Marilyn Edwards Leese.

Bob was born on February 17, 1936 in Vancouver B.C. and grew up in Hastings East where he formed lasting friendships with his pals, collectively known as the ‘Beavers’, who continued to meet regularly throughout his life. He will be deeply missed by Bill, his closest friend of 75 years, with whom he shared countless fishing and wilderness adventures.

Bob graduated from Vancouver Technical School and began his lifelong career in the electrical industry. Starting as a motor winder, then an inside wireman, Bob worked at Wismer & Rawlings for 25 years. In 1980 Bob established his own company Vancouver Industrial Electric (VIE), and joined the Electrical Contractors Association.

For 2 years before he retired in 2004, Bob served as the ECA President, and was later inducted into the ECA ‘Hall of Fame’. Bob will be remembered by the industry for his significant contributions to the Electrical Joint Training Committee and being integral to the launch of the Entry Level Training Program.

Bob loved shared adventures with friends and family. He was a passionate explorer and outdoor sportsman, excelling as an expert fisherman, seasoned boater, and holding a pilot’s license.

In the 60’s and 70’s he and his family traveled around the world twice, including a three-year stay in India where Bob honed his skills as a self-taught photographer. His photographs and name will live on within the University of Chicago Archives.

Bob will be remembered for his friendly, fun, can-do spirit and sense of humour, even as he faced Parkinson’s disease in recent years. Thank you to the kind caregivers and staff at Langley Lodge, who delighted in his company and called him ‘Bob the Builder’.

Bob was indeed a builder of cherished memories for all who treasured his companionship.