Robert Laing

Laing – Robert Cunningham

Robert C, Laing, 96, passed away peacefully in hospital on Friday, April 15, 2022. Robert was the second youngest of 6 children born to David and Catherine Laing. Robert was born In Shotts, Scotland and emigrated to Canada with his family when he was 5 years old. With a thick Scottish accent, he quickly picked up the nickname of Scotty, which stuck with him throughout his life.

During World War II, at the age of 17, Robert answered the call of duty and returned to the UK to join the Royal Air Force. Robert was assigned to a bomber crew and was soon in combat over Europe. On their 33 rd combat mission the plane was hit and the crew force to bail out. Robert was captured by German forces as soon as he reached the ground and sent to a POW camp in Poland. Robert turned 19 in the POW camp and was eventually liberated by advancing Russian forces as the war drew to a close.

Robert returned to Canada where he met the love of his life Shirley E. Stevenson. The two married in 1946 and happily remained so until Shirley’s passing in 2006.

Robert and Shirley had two children, Diana born in 1949 and Donald born in 1953. Diana Christopher passed away in 2009 and is survived by her husband Derek and their two children Andrew and Melissa Saunders. He is fondly remembered and loved by his 5 grandchildren, Morgan, Macy, Tessa, Shane, and Saige. Donald Laing and his wife Marjorie reside in Lady Lake, Florida.

Robert was a career public servant in the federal government however family was always his primary focus in life. Robert retired at age 54 to devote his time to family. He continued his hobby of wood working and took up wood carving. The results can be seen in the homes of every family member. Robert was the happiest at family gatherings surrounded by grandchildren and great grandchildren.

As time took its toll, Robert moved to the Viva Retirement Residence in Barrhaven and quickly found a second family. He developed many friends there, both residence and staff. The family would like to express their deep appreciation to the staff and management at Viva Barrhaven for the quality of care and kindness Robert received while a resident. He always spoke highly of the people at Viva.

A graveside service will be held at Pinecrest Cemetery on Friday, April 22nd at 3 p.m. Those wishing may make memorial donations to the Ottawa Humane Society.