Robert “Bob” Lodge, owner of the 730 Truck Stop on the 401 near the Quebec-Ontario border, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, April 18.

A generous man who cared greatly for his community and customers, Bob started his career as a truck driver who decided in 1987 that what the eastern part of the 401 needed was a good truck stop. So that year he bought a piece of property near exit 730, at Cardinal.
The only building was a three-bay garage with two small diesel pumps. Bob used his connections in the trucking industry to let drivers know that he was open for business and the customers started coming.

In 1988, Bob was approached by Ultramar to become an Ultramar cardlock site and in 1989 the first expansion took place. Growth continued to this day, and now the 730 consists of a sprawling main building filled with convenient products and services. The 730 is a welcome oasis for east and westbound truckers.

For over 20 years, the 730 Truck Stop has played an active role in community service and has supported the local communities through financial contributions, community events, and volunteer efforts of employees.

Bob’s death came as a shock to all. (Todaystrucking.com first learned of Bob’s passing during the Truck World 2012 show at the International Centre in Toronto, and word quickly spread throughout the show.)

Bob’s friends may call at the Royal Canadian Legion on Dundas Street in Cardinal on Sunday from 1:00 p.m to 4:00 p.m. or from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and then on Monday from 10:00 a.m. to noon.

That will be followed by a truck convoy featuring his trucks and any trucks that wish to participate and then a luncheon at 2:00 at the Cardinal Legion.

On Tuesday, friends may call at the Dupuis Funeral Home in Danville, QC, from noon until 2:15.

That will be followed by a celebration of Bob’s life in the Danville-Asbestos Trinity United Church at 2:30 p.m. followed by interment in the Danville Protestant Cemetery.

Bob was the loving husband of France Forest. He was father of Carolyn, Steven, Brian, and stepfather of Sebastien and Charles. He was brother of Barbara, Beverley, Gordon, Jeannie, Mary, Harry, Louise and Alan. He will also be remembered by his grandchildren Erin, Stanley, Bradlee, Trevor, and step-grandchildren Thomas and James.

Donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be gratefully acknowledged by the family and online condolences can be made at marsdenmclaughlin.com