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Robert McKinlay Gauldie passed peacefully in his sleep on the evening of September 27, 2026, at the age of 86. Bob, as he was known to many, was a man of integrity, who valued time with family and friends and was always happiest when he was outdoors.

Son of the late Robert and Euphemia Gauldie and dear brother of Jack Gauldie (Sally). Much loved husband to Lynn Murray. Loving father of Kate (Daniel) and Amy. Cherished grandfather to Sam, Matthew and Hannah and Gordie.

Born in Greenock Scotland in 1940, he moved to Canada when he was 6 years old and grew up in Hamilton Ontario. He went to McMaster University and began his long career teaching chemistry in both Toronto and in Orillia, at ODCVI. He was well known for his Bunsen burner breakfast and his many years of dedicated basketball coaching. Always believing in the power of experiential outdoor learning, he ran the outdoor club (Outward Bound) for many years, introducing countless students to an appreciation of the natural world.

Bob’s love of the outdoors began as a Boy Scout, advancing to a Queen Scout and then blossomed into a passion for further adventures. In 1967 he was part of the Ontario Centennial Voyageur Team and paddled from Alberta to Montreal for Expo ‘67. The bonds created with his team during that journey were very important to him and these friendships continued throughout his life. He spent many summers on staff at Bark Lake Leadership Centre. Bob was forever grateful to his camp family for their enduring kinship through the years and especially for the support during his dementia.

He was never happier than when he was up a creek fishing, paddling in Algonquin park or outside enjoying a rainstorm and he was always passionate about sharing that appreciation of the natural beauty with others.

As one who loved to laugh and share a good joke, Bob faced his dementia with courage and always kept his humour. Time spent with his dogs brought him such joy, even in his final days, as much loved companions.

Thank you to the incredible staff at Finch House- Leacock Long Term Care, who looked after Bob with immense love and supported him like family, through a difficult final 5 years dealing with Lewy Body Dementia.

A Celebration of Life will take place at Mundell Funeral Home, 79 West Street North, Orillia on Sunday, November 1, 2026. Visitation will be from 12:30 to 2:30 PM with the Service starting at 2:30 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Couchiching Conservancy, OSPCA or charity of your choice in Bob’s memory.