Robert Sheard
1927-2020
SHEARD, Robert Wesley
(Bob)
Died peacefully of natural causes on October 21, 2020 at
Arbour Trails, Guelph, Ontario at the age of 93, with his sons by his
side. Survived by sons Bill Sheard of Calgary, and John
Goerzen Sheard (Mary) of Elmira, granddaughter Katie, grandson Wesley,
and brothers Tom, John, Francis, and Alex, along with numerous nieces
and nephews. Bob is predeceased by his loving wife Gladys
(White) of 62 years, parents Ben and Ida Sheard, and older brother
Bill.
Born in Maryfield, Saskatchewan on January 17, 1927, the
second of six sons on a prairie farm. His post secondary
education began with a BSA from the University of Saskatchewan,
followed by an MSc from the University of Toronto, which he obtained
in Guelph at the Ontario Agricultural College, now the University of
Guelph. While at the OAC, he met Gladys and they started
their life together in a house built close to the Guelph
campus.
He earned a PhD from Cornell University and returned to a
career as a professor of Plant Agronomy and Soils. Research
in nutrient requirements and soil structure led to a specialty in
turfgrass and sports field construction. As a result, he was
instrumental in the founding of the Guelph Turfgrass Institute, and
the development of the association now known as Sports Turf Canada.
He always joked that his aim was to make two blades of grass
grow where one grew before.
Overseas trips to attend the International Turfgrass Congress
gave him the travel bug. A sabbatical year to live and work
in New Zealand allowed the family to travel the world and meet
lifelong friends.
Through these years Bob was an active curler, and a member of
Masonic Lodge and Eastern Star. With Gladys, many miles and
nights were spent travelling the province visiting numerous friends.
Retirement in 1990 brought more time for gardening, travel, occasional
consulting, and especially cherished grandchildren. Bob was unwavering
in his commitment to Gladys and following her stroke Bob fully
supported her advocacy work for Stroke Recovery.
Bob and Gladys moved to Arbour Trails in 2013. Bob
himself experienced a stroke in 2016. To his final days, he
grew plants in his room and enjoyed his flower garden outside
– he was motivated his entire life to help plants and people
grow. The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the
Arbour Trails staff, and to Dr. David Hood for the compassionate care
Bob received.
Due to the current emphasis on health and safety, a graveside
ceremony will take place Wednesday. Oct. 28, 2020 in Shelburne for
family only. A memorial service will follow Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2020 at
GILCHRIST CHAPEL – McIntyre
& Wilkie Funeral Home, One Delhi Street,
Guelph – also restricted to invited family.
Please understand that we will be following social distancing
protocols due to COVID-19. The invited family will be
required to wear masks. We ask the family to not visit if
feeling unwell or have been in contact with someone who has tested
positive for Covid-19. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to
Harcourt Memorial United Church or Stroke Recovery Canada – Guelph
Wellington Chapter would be appreciated. We invite you to
leave your condolences and donations online at:
www.gilchristchapel.com
and they will be forwarded to the family.
What we have done for ourselves alone, dies with
us. What we have done for others and the world remains, and is
immortal (quote by Albert Pike).
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Robert Sheard 19272020..
Death notice for the town of: Guelph, Province: Ontario