Obituary
In Loving Memory of Robert William Walford
"l have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" — 2 Timothy 4:7
It is with deep love and sorrow that we share the passing of Robert (Rob) William Walford after a courageous battle with cancer.
Rob lived his life with quiet determination and grit. After graduating with distinction from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Environmental Science (Architecture), a Master's in Urban Planning and an M.B.A. in Finance, he built a successful executive career in commercial real estate in Winnipeg and Toronto. He was known for his sharp financial acumen, for negotiating extraordinarily complex deals and for nurturing top talent.
Rob's greatest joy was his family. He was a steady hand, a safe place and an encourager of every dream. He met his wife, Elizabeth Henry Walford, while skiing, and together they built a loving, 27-year partnership, standing shoulder-to-shoulder along their career journeys, and filling their home with faith, resilience, laughter, and love.
He delighted in supporting his sons Matthew (23) and Patrick (21) in their academic, athletic and creative pursuits, never happier than when beaming with pride at school performances, sports tournaments, or simply watching his boys grow. He encouraged his sons to push forward and persevere, no matter what, to realize their vision. Rob and Elizabeth raised resilient sons who exemplify integrity and courage.
Rob grew up in Montreal as the eldest of four children of Dorice and the late Harvie Walford, both of whom lived remarkable lives and shaped his values of learning, service, and quiet strength. Harvie and Dorice's marriage was one of shared adventure, intellect, and love - values that Rob carried into his own marriage and fatherhood.
Rob was also blessed with a close relationship with his grandparents the late Major-General A. Ernest Watford and Olive M. Dyke Walford who nurtured and encouraged him every step of his journey.
Along with his sister Dr. Joanne (Martin), and his brothers Alan (Florence) and Mark (Jackie), he enjoyed summers on Lac Marois, Cape Cod and skiing at St. Sauveur. He was a gifted athlete, from skiing to tennis to holding the mile record at Selwyn House to honing his golf handicap. He loved cottage life, particularly paddling his red cedar canoe. He was also skilled pianist and played the organ at St. Matthias church.
Rob spent many hours golfing, skiing and holidaying with his brothers-in-law, the late Bill Henry, and Michael (Jerel) Henry and enjoyed many celebrations with his in-laws the late Robert W. and Beverley Henry, and with his nieces and nephews, Dr. Melani & the late Lauren Lighter, Ashley Walford, Emilie & Meagan Walford, Layla & Lucas Levy, Clare, Margaret & William Henry.
We are forever grateful for the support of our family and a remarkable network of dear friends who helped us navigate a very difficult journey with their advice, humour and encouragement.
We will deeply miss Rob's steadfast presence, his grit, his Dad jokes, and his enthusiasm for the outdoors. Rob's life was a testament to perseverance, love, and pride in his family.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Terry Fox Foundation.
Visitation
Service
January 06, 2026
Blessed Sacrament Church
10:30 AM
