Robert 'Bob' Desjardins Passes

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our dear friend Robert 'Bob' Desjardins.

'No Problem Bob,' as he was known by many, loved his horses no matter what breed. He took care of horses in western Canada, as well as into the United States, and was a part of Alberta Horse Racing at Northlands Park for over 30 years before moving on to care for horses in Lacombe in 2015.

Bob was always at home in a barn full of horses. They were “his” and he was an excellent caretaker. The horses never wanted for anything as long as Bob was around and he soon became part of the family in every barn he worked. He often enjoyed relating a story about a favourite of his that he cared for in the Ed Tracey barn named Ceremia. He was so proud to hold her in the winner's circle.

Bob was equally as good to his human friends, often providing a crock pot full of chilli or stew with buns and butter to go along with it. He would complete his morning work, go up to his dorm room to check on the meal that had already been simmering all morning, and then carry it down to the barn with all the utensils and fixings for the crew in the barn he worked in, as well as anyone that wanted to partake. He would come back to pick up his empty crock pot to wash it up and have it ready for another day.

At Thanksgiving and Christmas he would often prepare a full meal of homemade turkey dinner for those who stayed in the dorms and looked after the horses so others could go home to celebrate with their families. Bob was always there with an open door, and an ear to listen to your troubles and was always there to lend a hand to anyone in need.

Bob will be greatly missed in the horse racing industry in Alberta, by not only the people, but by many of his four legged friends as well.