PORTER, “Bob”
August 22, 1939 - January 11, 2016
It is with mixed emotions that we said our last goodbyes to a man who filled our lives with his love. Born August 22, 1939 in Edmonton, Alberta, Bob followed in his father’s footsteps and worked for the CPR as a telegrapher. It is through this profession where he met his life time partner, Rose. Bob was known as a “Jack-of-all trades” and worked in many different capacities before becoming a motel/restaurant owner for twenty years. Bob never lost his love to play. So with each job he incorporated a new game business; while he was with the Edmonton City Police Force, he built and ran the first mini car racing business in Edmonton that attracted many kids in and around the area. During his time on the Edmonton Fire Department, he bought and operated a pinball vending business. Bob and Rose moved to Drumheller in 1979 where they owned and operated the Badlands Motel. In 1986 Bob built Whif’s Restaurant and because of his passion for model trains, he added the track and trains that continue to run today. He became the prime book keeper for Rose when they purchased the Health Food Store. As a sideline he played the stock market. His hobbies included: playing cards (Bridge, Chess, Crib etc..), dancing, played and co-owned a race horse, golf, camping, travel, took on deep sea diving in New Orleans and surfing in Hawaii, and he enjoyed casinos. Bob was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Board Member with the Grace House, he also participated in many tourist based organizations. Bob leaves to mourn his loving wife, Rose, 2 daughters, Jodi (Brian), Melanie (Dave), three grandchildren, Brett, Josh, Megan, one sister, Dorothy (Stan), numerous nieces, nephews, and a life time of friends. Bob was predeceased by his parents, Gabriel and George, siblings, Stan, Lillian, Irene, and Vivian. Prayer Vigil will be held Thursday, January 21, 2016 at 7:00 p.m. from ST. ANTHONY’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, Funeral Mass will be held Friday January 22, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. from ST. ANTHONY’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH. If friends so desire memorial donations may be made to the Drumheller Area Health Foundation specifying “Coalbanks” 351 9th Street N.W., Drumheller, Alberta, T0J 0Y1, web address;
drumhellerhealthfoundation.com. Courtney-Winter’s Funeral Homes are in care of the arrangements.