Obituary of Bob Byblow
It is with great sadness that I (Arielle) announce the passing of my father, Robert Eric Byblow. He died on May 12th, 2026, while at his home in Springside, Saskatchewan. Born January 23, 1958, in Yorkton, Saskatchewan, he was known lovingly by his family and friends as Bobby.
Bobby loved his home, his garden and his cooking. He was meticulous in all he did, especially his shopkeeping. It seemed like his mantra: how he took care of one thing was how he took care of everything—with endless attention and care. He was a farm equipment specialist, a problem solver extraordinaire and the regional expert on fixing anything and everything. The depth of the knowledge he held will be deeply missed and difficult to match. Those whom he mentored understood they were truly gifted with his guidance. His legacy had been immortalized in his garage on a poster that reads, “If Bob can’t fix it, it's f****d.”
Robert grew up in a Ukrainian farming family, a heritage he appreciated and embodied as his life unfolded. He particularly loved to take the ingredients of his own growing, to experiment to see what he could create. Some notable examples were his carrot cake and his delicious pickles (which got better year over year). While known for being an expert mischief-maker in his youth, he slowed the troublemaking in later years, but kept it up just enough to pass those moments of mischief onto his daughter.
Everyone was welcomed into his home to enjoy a cigarette, a shot or a beer. If he happened to have strong opinions during that time—such as someone being the equivalent of a cat sh*tting in his garden—he would just say so. He didn’t mince words; you knew exactly how he felt and thought about any situation and he was unwaveringly steady in his values. Dad was extremely hardworking, trustworthy, diligent and honest. I loved laughing with him. He taught me self-reliance, to stay curious and that I could do or fix anything if I set my mind to it.
Bobby is survived by his daughter Arielle, the light, joy and reason of his life. He unconditionally and enthusiastically supported my mischief-making and desire to learn and try new things, even when he made his concerns known with colorful language. He is survived by his sister Lenora Spezowka (husband Richard), his many nieces and nephews, and the godchildren whom he was called to be present for. Bobby is predeceased by his loving parents, Mike and Pearl Byblow; his siblings Valerie, Gordie, Rodney, Emily and Eleanor; and his nephew Aaron.
A date for a memorial event in Springside will be announced when details are finalized. Deep appreciation and thanks to all who’ve shared their love, time, and talents to honor him during this difficult time.
