I’m absolutely gutted hearing the news of Mayor Bill Robertson’s passing. My thoughts and condolences to his family and loved ones. Words cannot describe how much he meant to me. He was a mentor, a role model, a teammate, a reference and more importantly, a damn good friend.
Bill never doubted me from the day he met me, he knew I was a good kid and would eventually grow into good guy. He always pushed me to be better, called me out on my shit, and was more helpful than anyone I have ever met. That’s just who Bill was. I will never forget the conversations, the advice, and all the help he gave me throughout the 10 plus years I was lucky enough to know this man. Anytime I was down in the dumps or distraught over something stupid I’d done, he was always right there to provide help and guidance.
I want to share a story about Bill and myself that nobody knows. Back in January 2014, a young and dumb fist year University Student lost his licence in Banff coming back from a night of partying early in the morning the next day. This was me. A real low point in my life. Bill talked me through it, gave me advice, and told me not to be too hard on myself, but instead to learn from the mistake and grow. He even shared a story about his past involving something not to smart that he’d done as well, to show to me that everyone makes mistakes and even the best people can fall. During this period I was actually on a hockey team with Bill, and due to losing my license, I had to move onto campus residence at MRU and wouldn’t be able to play hockey anymore. What did Bill do? When he heard this, he waved my hockey fees, actually physically helped me move into residence at midnight on a Sunday and drove me to hockey every single time for 3 months until I got my license back. That’s the kind of guy Bill was, and the kind of guy I hope to one day be.
The entire town of Okotoks is going to miss you deeply Mayor Robertson, and I am going to miss my friend. RIP Bill you will always be missed, loved dearly, and never forgotten. Thank you for all you’ve done for me Bill. I know I didn’t say it enough, but thank you from the bottom of my heart Bill.
Rest Easy Friend. ❤️