Donor Stories

We are grateful to the many donors who support the work of the Lake O’Hara Trails Club. From time to time, our donors request a dedication in memory of a loved one. We are honoured to present these stories.

In Memory of a Fine Man in a Fine Place: Robert (Bob) Leong 1949 - 2021

Bob Leong and his wife, Diane Magyary, first discovered the magic of Lake O’Hara in 2001, when they came to hike its lovely trails and stay at the campground. Having fallen under the spell of the area, a cathedral to renew the soul, they returned every September to continue hiking the whole trail network in all kinds of weather for 19 years. Bob and Diane had a wonderful sense of adventure, and Bob enjoyed fishing in Lake O’Hara.  Naturally, he shared one of his best catches with his friends at Lake O’Hara Lodge in the early 2000’s. Bob was also known for his keen observation and photography of the wildlife in the area, especially wolverines and grizzlies. He was one of the kindest, most humble men his friends had ever met; he had a real dedication to helping others; and was a significant contributor to communities with projects abroad and closer to home. His motto in life was “Better to serve than be served.” For example, he and Diane actively worked with their church to help ensure potable water for many villages in Malawi and for many years, Bob organized Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners for Ronald McDonald House in Seattle. It was only after his death that his friends learned of his phenomenal charitable work through his foundation, providing scholarships to less fortunate students to attend Catholic high schools, starting in Hawaii and expanding to other states. Bob had a unique and somewhat self-deprecating sense of humour and good will. Dining with Bob always guaranteed much hearty laughter at meal times. He was the best and most caring friend one could ever have, and his friends feel blessed and honoured by his dedication and friendship.