Former Publisher of the Strathmore Standard, Bob Giles passed away
Robert Francis “Bob” Giles
Bob Giles passed away peacefully in his sleep October 5, 2019 at the age of 85.
Born in Montreal and raised in Lachute, Que., Bob studied Journalism at Ryerson in Toronto, returning to the family printing and publishing business in 1953 and later became a third generation editor/publisher of The Lachute Watchman.
He served as president of the Quebec Weekly Newspaper Association and spent six years on the board and executive committee of the Canadian Community Newspaper Association. A change in management and the additional requirements of the family business resulted in his relinquishing his position as incoming first vice president of the national association. His father Bob Giles Sr. was a past president of the Canadian Weekly Newspaper Association.
Having later sold the family business in Quebec that published both English and French language community newspapers and operated a large commercial printing plant, Bob purchased The Strathmore Standard and moved to Alberta in 1977.
Like many in community newspapers, he was editor, publisher and jack-of-all-trades, and also worked closely with the Strathmore municipal council, the Valley General Hospital & Extended Care Centre Board, and Strathmore & District Chamber of Commerce and was a member of the Economic Development Commission in Strathmore. Prior to his move, he was active in a number of organizations, including the Shrine and Lions Club.
Bob sold the Strathmore Standard in 1991 and he and Jan retired to Salmon Arm, BC in 1993, returning to Alberta in 2001 and then Strathmore in 2006.
Having grown up in a newspaper family environment, Bob is remembered as one who in his editorials and columns always called a spade a shovel. He expressed his thoughts and feelings on what he felt was in the best interests of the communities he served, never concerned about who got the credit.
A celebration of life service is planned for Nov. 4, 2019 at 2 p.m. at the Strathmore United Church.