Tribute

Bob was born in Lacombe, Alberta, and raised in Calgary.  After attending university in Montana and Calgary, he worked as a Social Worker in the fields of Child Welfare and Corrections.  He married Helen in 1971 and moved to Nanaimo where he eventually started his own business, a pet store called Sage’s Pet Place.  He thoroughly enjoyed helping many customers, young and old, for over 20 years.

In 1989, the family moved to Coquitlam and Bob began his retirement.  He was able to reconnect with his longstanding love of art.  In the ensuing years, he created many gorgeous pieces of art including paintings, pieces of pottery, and sculptures in wood, bronze, and stone.

Bob and Helen moved to Tsawwassen in 2001.  Bob continued to make new friends and earned the nickname “Friendly Bob”.  He also began a new endeavour, “Grandpa’s Day Care” looking after his grandchildren, Sid and Lila, which gave him enormous joy and fulfillment.

Bob’s curiosity and excitement about the world was contagious and inspirational.  Very few science documentaries went unwatched!  Travelling was always a highlight of his life and he loved learning about different cultures.  He passed on this sense of adventure to his entire family and encouraged them to always be open to new experiences and to follow their dreams.  He will be remembered for being fun and jovial but also for taking an interest in serious matters and always ready for a lively conversation or debate.

Bob passed away on June 15, 2018.  He will be missed greatly by his family: wife, Helen, children Laura (Bern), Erin (Andre), Dave (Cheryl), and grandchildren Sid, Lila, Sam, Josie, Ryan and Callum, as well as his extended family and friends, including some that go back as far as elementary school.  He was predeceased by his only brother, Gerry, in 2011.  Gerry’s wife, Ola, who Bob affectionately referred to as “my big sister”, as well as her children, Natalie and Chris and their families, also share our loss.

The family wants to extend our sincere and heartfelt thanks to Dr. H. Hollinger who gave Bob the utmost in care and compassion over the years.  Also, we are most grateful for the care provided by the Delta Hospital staff, the Home Nursing Care team, the Paramed Home Support Workers, and all the staff and volunteers of the Delta Hospice Society.

All of Bob’s family and friends have lost a wonderful, much loved man who was such a pleasure to know.  A celebration of his life will be held at Cammidge House , 498 Boundary Bay Road, Delta, on Saturday July 7, from 2 – 4 pm, with a sharing of stories and remembrances around 3 pm.  Everyone is welcome.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Delta Hospice Society or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.