June 18, 1930 – March 12, 2016
It is with much sadness that the family announces Bob’s passing at the age of 85. Bob was born in Armada, Alberta. In the early 1950s he made his way to B.C. where he met his future wife Delphine, and was a loving husband for 61 years (a great team). And also greatly missed by his children Karen (Jagtar), Jo-Ann, Don, Laurie, and Richard; his grandchildren Shinder (Melvin), Alamjeet; great-grandchildren Summer, Alaniya, and Monroe. He will be sadly missed and remembered by many nieces, extended family members, and friends throughout British Columbia, Alberta, New Brunswick, and the States. Predeceased by his parents – Herbert and Mary – and his siblings and their spouses; Ronnie (Maude), Len (Esther), Vic (Judy); nephew (Wayne); niece (Lynn) and many other relatives. Bob was a long-time employee at Teck Cominco and an avid union member. This union involvement continued in his retirement years through his participation in the Steelworkers Organization of Active Retirees (SOAR).
Growing up as a farmer’s son, his love for the land became a part of him. This resulted – in his adult life – in hobbies such as gardening and beekeeping. The abundance of produce and honey was given away many times, and was in keeping with his generous nature. Giving back to the church, community, and helping wherever possible was a core part of his values. This included being actively involved with the Boy Scouts of Canada for 21 years. Even before it became trendy, he was incorporating the 3Rs of reduce, reuse, and recycle into his daily life. His motto for life was “Everything is impossible until someone does it”. The words “can’t be done” weren’t part of his vocabulary.
The family is extremely grateful to Dr. Phillips (and his staff), Dr. Goel, the various specialists, the nurses, care aides, and support staff at KBR Hospital. Special thank you for the care provided by the 3rd Floor nurses and others during Bob’s palliative stay.
We are comforted by the visits by Pastor Ken Siemens both to Bob and family; and the kind words (spoken and written) plus visits by neighbours, friends, relatives, and church family. Our parents’ neighbours are a special bunch. They always have each other’s backs.
Bob’s faith in the Lord has given us comfort that we will be together again. A service will be held at Trail Alliance Church at 3365 Laburnum Drive on July 16th at 10:30am. In lieu of flowers, please either donate to a charity of your choice or do a random act of kindness.