Bobby Hykaway Obituary

We are saddened to announce the unexpected passing of Bob M. Hykaway, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend.

Bob married the love of his life and best friend, Betty Hykaway, in September 1973 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. In 1998 they moved to Calgary, Alberta, where they continued building their life and family together.

Bob began his career as a mechanic with Winnipeg Transit in 1974, joining Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1505 in Winnipeg. His dedication to workers and the union led him to serve as a shop steward, and he was later elected Local Vice President in 1987. In 1993 he became Acting President and Business Agent, and in 1994 he was elected President/Business Agent of the Local.

Bob went on to serve as a Western Executive Board member of the Canadian Council of the ATU (now ATU Canada) and participated in the Joint Labour/Management Task Force for TransitCompetitiveness. He also served as a trustee for the City of Winnipeg Employee Benefits Board Pension Plan.

In September 1997, Bob was appointed International Vice President of the Amalgamated Transit Union, a position he was elected to at each convention until his retirement in 2017. Throughout his career, Bob was known for his dedication to workers, his leadership, and his commitment to improving the lives and dignity of union members across Canada.

Bob was a proud father to his two daughters, Tracy Anderson (Wayne Anderson) and Tammy Enns (Jamie Enns). He was a loving grandfather to Ethan and Jaden Enns, Logan, Hallie, Olivia Anderson and great-grandfather to Ryder Enns who all brought him great joy.

He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Sophie Hykaway, and his brother Wayne (Judy) and his mother-in-law Jean Ostash and brother-in-law Gary (Bev) Ostash. He is survived by his brother Alan (Sandy), Paul (Tammy), and brothers-in-law Larry (Janice) and Peter (Val), along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Bob loved escaping Calgary winters and spending time at his winter home in Maricopa, Arizona. He enjoyed playing golf, spending time in the pool, and checking out new restaurants, but most of all he cherished spending time with his family and grandchildren.

He also had a love for fishing, especially in the recent years with Betty and his cousin Mike (Sam) Derkach at Asessippi provincial park.

Bob will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Above all else, Bob was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. His family meant everything to him, and some of his happiest moments were spent laughing, golfing, fishing and making memories with those he loved. He had a big heart, a great sense of humour and a deep love for his family.

Bob leaves behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, and love that will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the kidney foundation of Canada.