Obituary of Robert Garth Reid
In Loving Memory of Robert Garth Reid
June 29, 1935 – August 7, 2025
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of a great man, Bob Reid.
He departed peacefully on August 7, 2025, at the age of 90. His life was marked by quiet strength, unwavering love, and a deep devotion to his family, community, and the public at large.
Robert Garth Reid was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on June 29, 1935, to parents Margaret and Russell Reid. He was the eldest of eight siblings.
At the age of 16, Bob enlisted with Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry and was deployed to Korea as part of the 2nd and 3rd Battalions, serving from 1951–1953. This stands as a testament to his strong morals and sense of duty.
After returning home, Bob worked in the oil patch, operating any piece of equipment that needed running, and as a farmhand doing whatever jobs came his way. He worked his way from Manitoba across the prairies. It was during this time he met Marion, who would later become his wife.
In 1961, Bob and Marion welcomed their first child, a daughter, Cynthia. His work eventually brought him to northern BC. Like many pioneers, he drank the water from the mighty Peace River—and the rest, as they say, is history.
After a time in Fort St. John, the family settled in Taylor, BC, where Bob built a life rooted in community and connection. Bob and Marion welcomed their second daughter, Sandra, in 1963, followed by their son, Miles, in 1965, and completed their family with daughter Darlene (“Dolly”) in 1968.
In 1970, the family moved to the “Industrial Village” of Taylor, where everyone knew their neighbors and community events felt like family reunions. Bob quickly became a quintessential part of the Taylor family. Although the marriage ended in 1978, Bob and Marion remained respectful to each other for the family’s sake.
In 1979, Bob became a business owner, founding Sureway Construction—an iconic company that became a cornerstone of the community and employed generations of people. In 1980, he purchased a quarter section of farmland, a dream rooted deep in his blood.
Work and life were a series of hectic balancing acts. Bob wore many titles: Friend, Co-worker, Big Bopper, Papa, Papa Smurf, Business Owner, Volunteer Firefighter, Father, Big Brother, Uncle, Grandpa, and Great-Grandpa—who the kids affectionately called “Bob.” These were just a few of the roles he embraced. He lived life on his terms, with devotion to family at the core. Bob was recognized for 25 years of voluntary service with the Taylor Fire Department.
The farm became a cherished gathering place for Sunday “breakie.” Bob would argue it was hardly breakfast since it wasn’t served until 10 a.m. He’d fire up the old woodstove and whip up his famous “saddle blankets” (pancakes) and bangers, creating what the family fondly remembers as the “Sunday morning sweat-shack.” Summer or winter, rain or shine, that breakfast was always ready—and he wouldn’t have it any other way.
In 1984, the Reid family’s world was forever changed by the tragic death of Bob’s only son, Miles, along with his friend Brian, in an avalanche at Red Fern Lake. It was a heartbreaking loss that is still deeply felt to this day.
Bob was a man of unimpeachable integrity, holding values few could rival. His first love was family—second only to coffee and a good story told in Bob’s words. He believed life skills needed to be taught, and he was more than happy to share: how to put in an honest day’s work, cuss like a mule skinner, chew snus and spit, and toughen up because “no room for pussies.” Oh yeah—and the most terrible food? Well, that would “put hair on your chest and balls.”
Bob was always ready to offer advice or lend a hand to anyone in need.
How does one possibly define a 90-year life in a sentence? His iconic cowboy hat, infectious smile, and larger-than-life presence will forever be remembered.
Forever loved, forever missed—Bob’s spirit will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.
Bob is survived by his daughters: Cyndy (Kevin), Sandy, and Dolly (Mel); grandchildren: Jeremiah, Alana, Russell, and Chezzerrai; and great-grandchildren: Liam, Beckett, Owen, Kaleigh, Kaya, Layla, Roc, Rowyn, and Nox.
He is lovingly remembered by his siblings: Shirley (Blake), Jim (Marilyn), Danny (Marlene), and Darlene (Lee), as well as many nieces and nephews.
Bob was predeceased by his beloved son, Miles Darren Reid; his parents, Margaret Taylor and Russell Reid; his stepfather, Les Taylor; and his brothers Leonard, Jerry, and Rod.
Celebration of Life:
12:00pm
Saturday October 11, 2025
Taylor Community Hall
Taylor, BC
In lieu of flowers, we would like Bob’s legacy to be better remembered by placing a Commemorative bench in the town of Taylor. The bench in memory of Bob, will be placed along the main street in Taylor, in front of the Fire Hall, where he received the service of recognition for 25 years as a Volunteer Fire Fighter.
Donations can be made to the: Bob Reid Commemorative Fund
