Obituary of Robert Letkeman

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Robert (Bob) David Letkeman announce his passing in Fort McMurray, Alberta on Friday, August 30th, 2024, at the age of 74 years.

Bob’s beautiful life began with his birth in Chilliwack, B.C. February 8, 1950. Bob was one of nine children born to John and Martha Letkeman.

Bob spent the majority of his life in various areas of B.C. where he met Irene in Kamloops in the Spring of 1969. Married in June 1970, Bob and Irene settled in Kamloops where they raised 2 girls and 2 boys. Bob and Irene were blessed with sharing a beautiful life full of love and family for 54 years until his passing.

Affectionately referred to as “Spock” by his children, Bob made learning and retaining knowledge an art form. When he wasn’t spending his spare time reading and learning, his love of mechanics and cars was evident in his pursuit to successfully build a Jeep with a Hemi engine. He proudly accomplished this goal prior to his hospitalization!

Bob spent the majority of his working life in the logging industry until 2009 when Bob and Irene moved to Fort McMurray, A.B. where he continued to operate heavy equipment in the oil sands with his sons. 

Dedicated to his faith as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Bob deeply valued his relationships with Jehovah, his family, and fellow Witnesses. Even as many of his memories faded through the progression of dementia, Bob never forgot his love for Jehovah. Even in a diminished capacity, he still shared his faith with hospital staff. 

His love and compassion, respect and understanding, patience and perseverance, humour and quick wit, will be missed and fondly remembered. 

Sadly, Bob was predeceased by his brothers, Dan and Gary; his parents, John and Martha; his parents in-law, John and Beatrice Crabtree; and his daughter Amber-Lee. 

Bob is survived by and will be deeply missed by his loving wife Irene (nee Crabtree); his children: Summer (Brad) Ebinger, Tyler (Genevieve) Letkeman, and Fraser (Jaime) Letkeman; his grandchildren: Ocean, Tristan, Ashton, and Beckham; 6 siblings; multiple nieces and nephews; and countless friends and fellow witnesses. 

Bob’s family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to all of the medical personnel at the Northern Lights Regional Health Centre who provided care and support to Bob and his family during his hospitalization.

To honour the beautiful gift of life Bob enjoyed, a memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 14th, 2024, at 1:00 pm at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses located at 431 Gregoire Drive in Fort McMurray.

Reception will be held at the Kingdom Hall following the funeral service.