Evan “Laird”, Elcombe - the bedrock of our family, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2024, in the loving embrace of his family. Born in Peterborough, Laird and his devoted wife, Linda, met in Kirkland Lake 60 years ago and raised their family in Cambridge after moving to Southern Ontario in 1977.
Laird’s career as a radio broadcaster spanned 45 years and included jobs at CJKL (Kirkland Lake), CFTJ (Cambridge), CKPC (Brantford), AM96 (Cambridge), and CJOY/Magic FM (Guelph). Among his many roles in radio, Laird (or Bill Cody if you’re from Kirkland Lake!) served as a morning show host, nighttime DJ, program director, news presenter, call-in show host, news director, and hockey play-by-play announcer for the Cambridge Hornets Senior A team.
Beyond broadcasting, Laird spent his life serving the community. In Kirkland Lake he was a member of the Chamber of Commerce, volunteered as a Board Member for the Kirkland Lake Football Team, and – one of his greatest memories – coached a local youth baseball team that progressed to the Ontario Championships. After moving to Cambridge in 1977, Laird continued to volunteer in the community. A true passion, he dedicated nearly 30 years to the Can Amera Games youth sport exchange program with Saginaw Township, Michigan, wearing many hats as a committee member and eventually served as Cambridge’s Chairperson.
Laird’s greatest love was his family. Married to Linda for 58 years, Laird was a caring, selfless, and dedicated father to Trish, Tim (Jill), and Janice (Roy). Dad passionately supported his children in all their endeavours, always present at events and activities. His commitment to family expanded with the birth of his beloved grandsons Haiden (2007) and Jordan (2016). Grandpa loved his boys with all his heart and was a central part of their lives. His commitment to family extended to his many nieces and nephews who knew Uncle Laird as a sweet, playful, and gentle soul.
Laird is survived by his brother Greer and sister-in-law Barbara. He was predeceased by his brother Paul, sisters-in-law Carol, Hilda, and Joanne, and brothers-in-law Keith and Kent.
Laird Elcombe was a truly amazing man: husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, broadcaster, and community volunteer. His passing has shifted his family’s foundations, and he is deeply missed. His life of service to family and the community has, often quietly, made the parts of the world he touched a better place. Laird leaves behind a legacy of dedication, support, honour, and what it truly means to love your family.
Friends will be received on Friday, December 20 between 4 and 8 pm at Corbett Funeral Home (95 Dundas Street North, Cambridge). On Saturday, December 21 friends will also be received from 10-11 am at Avenue Road Baptist Church (465 Avenue Road) with a service and reception to follow at 11 am at the church. The family appreciates all those able to come and share stories and memories of Laird and for those sending well wishes from afar. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Cambridge Food Bank in Laird’s memory.
