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BAGBY, Robert R. (Bob)

Nov. 9, 1921 - Feb. 9, 2017


Robert R. (Bob) Bagby has passed away peacefully on February 9, 2017 at the age of 95. Bob, the first son of J.Y. and Margaret Bagby, was born on November 9, 1921 in Casper, Wyoming. He was predeceased by the love of his life Phyllis, his wife of 70 years, his son Jon Bagby, his parents, and his brother Bill Bagby. After spending his formative years in Wyoming, Bob's life changed with World War II when he enlisted in the US Army Air Corps. While at flight training school he met a beautiful nurse. Phyllis became his wife and life long partner. Bob went on to make his contribution to the war effort by piloting a C 46 transport plane "Over the Hump" in the Himalayan mountains between India and China. After crashing in enemy territory Bob spent 14 difficult months in a Japanese prisoner of war camp. After he was liberated he returned to the USA, obtained a Business Administration degree from Denver University and went to work for a Colorado drilling contractor. In 1953 Bob immigrated to Alberta to join Gustavson Drilling, a fledgling drilling contractor, operating within Canada's new oil and gas exploration industry. The 1950's, 1960's and 1970's were exciting time in the Canadian oil patch. Bob along with many others were leaders and pioneers during this period of dynamic growth. He served as Executive Vice President for Gustavson Drilling until 1969 when he took over as President after Norm Gustavson's death. Under Bob's leadership Gustavson drilled shallow and deep wells throughout Alberta, BC, Saskatchewan and the Arctic. In 1977 he joined Altagas Minerals as VP and General Manager and in 1979 he became Senior Vice President of Husky Oil's Heavy Oil Division. He served as both President and a Director of the CAODC and in 1987 was made an Honorary Lifetime Member of the CAODC. He was an active member of the Calgary Petroleum Club, Earl Grey Golf and Country Club and the Knights of Columbus. After retirement Bob enjoyed his time with family and friends in both Sylvan Lake Alberta and Fort Meyers Florida. He is survived by his children Theresa and Mike Madill, Mike and Robyn Bagby, Tim and Barb Bagby, Trisha Bagby and Tom and Gina Bagby as well as his sisters Joann and Fabe Ivanoff and Marinell and Buzz Skretterburg. He has left many wonderful memories with his 11 grandchildren, their spouses, 16 great grandchildren and 2 great great grand children. Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on February 17, 2017 at Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Church 5033 47A Avenue Sylvan Lake, Alberta.

"May He Rest In Peace After A Life Well Lived"