In Celebration of

Robert Byron Hasler

January 25, 1941 -  July 25, 2020


Beloved father of Laurel Anne and father-in-law of James, Bob passed away on July 25th at the Ottawa General Hospital.

Bob is predeceased by his wife Gail (Krafchik) and parents Tom and Helena (Moran) and leaves behind his brother Jim, as well as many other family members and friends.

A true gentleman, Bob was known above all for his thoughtfulness, generosity of spirit, and kindness. But as friends and family can attest, his qualities also included a razor-sharp wit and the ability to find joy and laughter in every situation. Even in his last days, Bob still had a twinkle in his eye and would laugh so hard that tears streamed down his face. It was impossible not to laugh with him.

Bob graduated from school in Dunnville, went to RMC at age 16, and spent three years in the military. He then went to Western to pursue an MBA, after which his career included jobs with Eaton’s, Cadillac Fairview, College Park, and finally as GM of the Rideau Centre in Ottawa. Along the way, Bob made many lifelong friends.

Anyone who knew him knew Bob loved golf. For him, the game was a way to challenge himself to improve. But it was the people he spent time with through golf that he cherished most.

From his early days fishing on the Grand in Dunnville, to summers with family in Flinton, to skiing at Tremblant with his wife, daughter and family friends, Bob loved to be active. One of his favourite pastimes was working on the family cottage on Pringle Lake. His ability to learn through reading and by hashing out ideas with friends over “cocktail hour” on the deck helped him build a family oasis with precious memories.

Most of all, Bob adored his wife, Gail. And the feeling was entirely mutual. They met on a ski trip with friends and it was the beginning of a romance that would last the rest of their lives.

The family are thankful for the support from family, friends, and the incredible nurses, doctors, and palliative care team at The Ottawa Hospital.

Should you wish, donations may be made in Bob’s memory to the Canadian Cancer Society.

A private celebration of life will be held at 2pm on Saturday, August 1 at Pinecrest Visitation Centre, 2500 Baseline Road in Ottawa. To attend virtually, please email james@thirdwall.com.

Guestbook 

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Christine Birbalsingh (family friend)

Entered July 29, 2020 from Toronto

Love to you, Laurel Anne and James. I will miss his twinkly smile.

Brian and Gladis Tracey (Friends)

Entered July 29, 2020 from Gatineau

We're still realing from the news. First Gail, now Bob. There is a big hole in our lives. I know time will help but when you loose dear friends, your life can never be the same. We will miss Bob and his gentle ways.

Theresa Wolokoff (Friend)

Entered July 29, 2020 from Churchill Falls, NL

Laurel Anne I’m so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts. Hugs to you and your family. Love Theresa, Ashley and family.

Judy Costello (former co-worker and friend)

Entered July 29, 2020 from Stittsville, Ontario

I worked at Rideau Centre with Bob when he was the General Manager. We became good friends through the years and celebrated our birthdays each year with a birthday lunch which we continued when Bob retired. Bob made me chuckle when he gave me a "retirement" gift when he retired from Rideau Centre. I recall telling him that it was supposed to be the other way around because he was the retiree. We shared a lot of "family" stories at our birthday lunches. He was so very proud of Laurel Anne and her accomplishments in life, and was "over the moon" when Laurel Anne met the love of her life (James) and they got married. I will miss Bob very much but he will always hold a special place in my heart.

Kathleen Chafe 

Entered July 29, 2020 from St. John's

I feel so lucky I was able to know your dad LA and spend time with him. I have especially fond memories of the cottage and in St. John's when he and your mom visited. He was so kind, gentle, intelligent and loved you so much. I don't know if I've ever seen him happier than at your wedding. He was so proud of you. Sending my deepest sympathies to you and James and the rest of your family. Love you!

Photos 

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