The Friends of the Guelph Public Library would like to pay tribute to two firm friends who passed away recently.
Steve Lidkea – March 7, 1955 – January 28, 2026
From Steve’s obituary – “From an early age , Steve’s greatest passion was reading books, in which he would get lost for hours…” Whether it was moving heavy furniture or moving books, Steve was always there to help when asked. He volunteered for years with pre-sale setup, sorting and sale days, where he was very willing, capable, and helpful. The FGPL Book Sale Committee extends its condolences to his wife, Roxana Roshon, and his family.
Read more about Steve – https://www.passagescb.ca/obituaries/stevelidkea
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Robert “Bob” Ireland – September 17, 1940 
– February 17, 2026
Well-known in Guelph business circles as the founder of Guelph Tool and Die, later Guelph Manufacturing, Bob rescued our 2015 Big booksale by donating the building – rent free – at the former Home Hardware site on Speedvale Ave. W. This large space enabled us to raise nearly $120,000 at that year’s sale for our continuing support of the Guelph Public Library. A grateful FGPL Book Sale Committee extends its condolences to his wife, Sharon, and the Ireland family.
Read more about Bob – https://www.dignitymemorial.com/en-ca/obituaries/guelph-on/robert-ireland-12753274