Dear Mark, Susan, Jeff and family. It has been a privilege to know your mom and dad. Ferns joy spread where ever she went, and she was a selfless servant and friend. Bob was such a wise, fun, loving leader. I have known them for close to 45 years. The impact Bob's ministry had on Lawrence Heights Community was huge. He reached out to  scores of teenagers, and through his ministry, many families joined the church and many lives were changed. He was able to do that as a student minister, and his ministry grew from that point on. The 5 years he was at Lincoln Ave. United impacted many of our lives. He had an amazing way of bringing us all together and leading his "sheep" through Bible studies and fellowship. There were always fun times and times of growth. Their home was always open to everyone, and it felt like our second home. I am sad that I lost contact over the years, and I did not know Bob was ill. 
May God bless each one of you and hold you close as you continue your journey in life. You are loved by so so many.

Sue and Mark- Two friends are with each other today.I find comfort knowing that our fathers passed away just 4 days apart.  The 2 Bob's are  experiencing their journey together with our Lord.  Your Dad brought Tim and I together and we shared so many wonderful times. Your Dad often brought fire crackers for our boys to let off around campfires of Chesley lake.  Bob helped us bring Brendan home from the hospital 12 years ago.  I will miss our talks and games and boating over the years.  Tim and I will miss our good friend and my boys will miss their Uncle Bob. Sue and Mark, we may have lost our Dad's last week but we will never lose the Love in our hearts.  Barb (Bayne) Evers

Dear Mark, Susan, Jeff and family - There are so many good memories I cherish of your dad and your family. Your family has ministered the love of Christ in many ways to me: from baptism (involving your dad) to being introduced to Chesley Lake Camp (your mom & dad), to hair cuts in your basement (Sue), to wrestling with Mark (if one would call it that back then), . Each one of you is a gift. May the Lord's comfort meet your hearts and fill them. Love in Christ,  Mac and Lorraine Parker and family

Susan & Mark--My thoughts and prayers are with you both. Sandra Woolner

Dear Sue, Jeff, Mark and family,
It is with much sympathy that we write this note.  Bob's life greatly inspired us on our faith walk.  He & Fern had a way of making everyone feel like family!  Sue & Jeff, please know that on our many visits with your dad at Chesley Lake he spoke fondly of being a grandfather.  Your children brought much joy into his life. Your father will be missed, but will be remembered eternally by the souls of those he influenced for the Kingdom.  And now may he find comfort in the loving arms of our Father as he welcomes Bob home!  
     May those same loving arms surround you all now in your grief.  Our prayers are with you.

To the Duthie Family,
I just finished typing a long letter via this e-mail website and like all non-computer geniuses hit some key that wasn't meant to be hit and the entire epistle disappeared into cyberspace! Bob would laugh at that! I'll not try to replicate my lengthy reminiscence. Let me offer sincere sympathies to each and every one of you. I know that Bob loved each one dearly and you will miss him. I too. I was a colleague for over 12 years in ministry in Woodstock and we shared "tonnes" together. He was a great friend -- and will be missed terribly. I had written to him in recent years and understood that he was not apt to write in return, but I did want to offer my ongoing encouragement.  He faced many challenges; and always with humour, dignity, and compassion.  I have many stories to share if ever you would like to contact me via e-mail. Long after leaving Woodstock I would get an invite to return for lunch  and a visit/chat with Bob and our mutual friend The Rev. John Furry of Woodstock. We were the three most unlikely mix of ministers: The Three Amigos; and Bob always teased by nicknaming me: Holy Mother. He bowed, called my dubbed title, and then we all laughed. That was Bob!  A good friend, a great colleague, a loyal Servant. We were all richly blessed to have shared a part of his amazing life.  May you be comforted in knowing how much he was loved; and that he was a true vessel of God's ever-present love.  Respectfully and Gratefully, Rev. Dr. Jan McIntyre, London, Ontario (peskypastor@rogers.com)

Susan and Mark, your parents always made us Teens and Twenties feel so welcome at your home--it was a privilege to have them both ministering at Lincoln Avenue while we were growing up.  (The photo gallery is wonderful, especially the vintage one of the young couples.)  Our sympathy and love to all of you, also Uncle Terry and Aunt Elaine and family.

Dear Mark, Susan, Jeff and family- We want to express our sympathy to all of you during this difficult time.  We have such wonderful memories of times we spent with your Dad at Victoria Ave  and at Kenesserie Camp and on Elizabeth St. He and your Mom were always so gracious in opening the house to the rabble of teens that always seemed to be around.  We always knew there would be fun, fellowship and food to be found.  Your father's faith and ministry has had a profound effect on so many and we are so grateful for the part he played in our lives. We know that the last few years have not been easy ones and we pray for God's peace and comfort for all of you.
David and Karen Walker, Wallaceburg,Ontario

Fifty-two years ago as a newly-licenced driver I helped Bob travel to Liberty, Saskatchewan where he served as the United Church minister to three rural communities before beginning his theological education.  I have appreciated reconnecting with him in recent years through a gathering of Lincoln Ave. United Church alumni. I will ,no doubt, miss his presence when I visit the group at Don Gray's in July. My condolences go to his family and those many friends who were blessed by his friendship and service....Gary Batstone, Grand Marais, Manitoba.

Susan, Jeff, Mark, Jeremy and Joel
I was deeply saddened to hear of the death of your dear Dad and Papa.  He will be greatly missed, but the memories of all the good times you shared together will be of comfort to you in the days to come.  He loved you so much and left you with a wonderful legacy that will live on in your lives.  You are being remembered in my prayers during this difficult time.

Susan and Mark, Remembering you in our prayers, Dan and Nancy Parker

Jeremy and Joel
Losing someone so very close to you is the hardest thing we must endure.  Your papa loved you guys so much.  Take comfort in friends and family and know that your papa's spirit will be with you always and that one day you will all be together again.

dear susan, jeff and mark...I have so many fond memories of your father.  His outreach and ministry left their mark on many, including me. blessings on your family in these sad days...

I knew Bob best during the days at Victoria Ave. He walked often from the manse on Elizabeth St. to the church and home again. Frequently I would be out raking or cutting grass and he would cross Victoria Ave. to chat. Always friendly and positive. In those days some ministers in Chatham were envious of the numbers who attended his church, but he never seemed to be too worried. He said to me, "I preach the gospel, and if people come so be it." All glory was to God.
I cannot conceive of the positive influences he had on so many Chatham families.
I always greatly admired the fact that when the United Church of Canada was having its "troubles", Bob stayed the course and did not leave. That said a lot to me about his ability to see beyond the politics and emotions. "That many might be one" the denomination's motto resonated with him.
I recall a funeral service he conducted for a colleague's youngish wife. His compassion and sensitivity and honesty as well as his ernest assurance of God's love and support for that family is something I have never forgotten. Truly a man gifted by God.
All of have lost a pillar on the way. Sincere sympathy to family and friends.

Jim Simpson, London, Ont. formerly Chatham

Jeremy and Joel
I am sorry about the loss of your grandfather. It must be tough to lose someone so close to you. He is probably sitting up there right now smiling down on you guys. You are in my thoughts and prayers. stay strong!
Kevin (Skinny)

To Bob's family, We send our sympathy to you. Your father was a great man and minister; fun, compassionate, enthusiastic, passionate about faith.  We both received so much from him when we were youth who came to the Vic. Ave youth group, at Teen Camp at Kenesserie Camp and later when he was minister at Charing Cross.  He always had a warm smile and something to laugh about.  We were blessed by his spirit.  We like to think of him being united now with his beloved Fern and enjoying the adventures of the life beyond this one, having been drawn into God's deeper presence. Sincerely, Cheryl and Rob Kirk

Susan, Jeff and Mark;
Words cannot describe the sorrow I felt and am still feeling when I heard about Bob.  He was a VERY special man and I will always hold his memories deep in my heart. I am sorry I am not able to make it back to Ontario for the service.  I will be thinking of all of you at that time.

Mark, Susan & family,
We are so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. Although we have not kept in contact over the years he & Fern have always had a place in our hearts. We have many fond memories & probably would not be where we are today if not for his guidance & example. Our prayers are with you.  Nancy & Steve Cox

Our condolences go out to Mark,Susan,Jeff and the kids. Our memories of your Dad are wonderful. God used your dad as the inspiration for many, including myself, to enter the ministry. There are four from the picture of those who went the Zurich United Church that are in ministry. He did our wedding and I was privileged to officiate with him at his last wedding before retirement. (a double wedding with both my sisters). May the peace of God comfort you in your loss.

Dear Susan and Mark and extented family:
The years at Victoria Ave. United will always have wonderful memories of Bob and Fern as a couple that led us deeper into our christian walk. These past years of seeing your father suffer and now to know he is no longer . The  assurance to know He has a Saviour will always bring comfort and peace. God please surround this family with your peace and comfort for now and always.. Bill and Ruth Howe

Susan, Jeff, and Mark
I was saddened to hear about your Dad today.  I have so many wonderful memories of him.  He was such an influence in my life.  He will never be forgotten. May God comfort and keep you during this time.

Susan, Jeff and Mark:

     So sorry to hear of your dad's passing.  He was truly a wonderful man, and having worked with him as a funeral director in Woodstock, I know that he was a sincere man (with a great sense of humour) who  helped many from our community.  I last saw Bob about eight months ago, and was saddened to see that Parkinsons was taking its toll.  We had a great talk while he was down,  and I will remember all the practical jokes we used to play on each other.  He talked about his family with such high regard, he will be missed by all that knew him.  I (and my family) were honoured to have known him since 1991.  Our prayers are with you at this time.

  Sincerely:  John Brock (Longworth Funeral Home)

Dear Mark, Susan, Jeff and Family - Your Dad was a great friend and encourager to certain young pastors who are not so young anymore.  He and Fern modeled ministry for us and they were a wonderful blessing.  Our love and prayers are with you.  Colin and Janice Paterson

Dear Sue, Jeff, Jeremy and Joel.. 

Our condolances to you and your family in this difficult time.  He is now in a much better place, free of any pain and suffering.  He was a wonderful man, and he was always so friendly to us.  He may be gone from earth, but he is forever in your hearts and in your memories, that will never die.

Life is a book in volumes three-
The past, the present, and the yet-to-be.
The past is written and laid away,
The present we're writing every day,
And the last and best of volumes three
Is locked from sight - God keeps the key.

Thinking about all of you lots.  You are in our thoughts and prayers. 
Love: Theresa, Dan, Katie and Kevin

Hi Susan and Mark
I am so sorry to hear about your dad's passing.  It has been a tough struggle for you and the rest of your family these past few years.  But your dad is now in a loving arms of Jesus, and now enjoying time with your mother, who he dearly missed.  Our prayers are with you both and the rest of your family.

Jeremy & Joel:
We wanted to let you know, how much we're thinking of you at this time.  You must be devastated to have lost Papa.  Just know that he'll always be with you.  Love Terry, Bonnie & Katie

Dear Sue, Jeff, Jeremy & Joel:
Sincerest sympathies are with you and all your family at this difficult time.  Cherish the memories you have of your Dad and hold on tight, they'll get you through many trying times.   With all our love.  Terry, Bonnie & Kaitlin Ryan

To the family of Bob Duthie, I would like to express to you the sadness my wife and I feel at the passing of Bob. We met Bob in 1980 when we began attending "Vic Ave". Bob was the one we chose to perform our wedding in 1981. Though we had lost touch in recent years, Bob never left our hearts. He was as personable and giving a man as we have met. Bobs friendly smile and encouraging words have given us continual strngth through the years. Bob was a great person and is now enjoying his eternal rewards. Our thoughts are with you as you celebrate his life.  Sincerely Pastor Joe and Susan Doey

Dear Mark & Susan & family:
It is with very sad hearts this morning that we heard of the death of your Dad.  Years have passed but we always kept in touch with him.  He was the bright light of my days working with him and Eileen in the office at Victoria Avenue and the years attending Lincoln Avenue.  He rests now in peace with God at his side.  Your memories of him will comfort you over these days.  He will be remembered by many.  Ron & Barb Van Norman, Belle River, Ontario.

Dearest Susan, Mark and family
I am so very very sorry about your dad. I just heard now about his passing. I loved him dearly and will never forget his blessing to our family. By God's grace Dan, Sam and I all were given the opportunity to see your dad about 4 months ago. I think we all knew we were saying goodbye. Thank you Susan. 
Today, we the Parker family, all walk with Jesus because of your dad.(and your mother)  My dad, Art Parker, had told my brother Dan when he knew Dan was coming to visit your dad in February to say 'thank you' to your dad from him for what your dad for the influence he had had in our family. Your dad baptized us all by immersion including my mother and my grandmother (at 82!) Thank you for the many times you shared your dad, and the sacrifices you made growing up as he ministered to the lost souls of this world. We will never know until we reach Heaven ourselves the influence he had in the salvation of hundreds of God's children.  We are one family that is eternally grateful for your dad and mother's love. And we the Parkers have a deep and abiding personal relationship with Jesus today because of your parent's influrence in our lives   We honour the memory of your dad, as we have your mother, in our hearts and souls and will never forget.  God's peace and comfort surround and hold you as you walk through this next week. 
with deep gratitude and love
Lynn Parker

Sue, Jeff, Jeremy and Joel,
'The will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you'.
Your Dad's (Papa) Love will be missed by hundreds, but you as a family will carry it forward. My prayers are with you all.

Our prayers and sympathies are with you
Bert & Corrine Zantingh

Susan & Mark - Your Dad's enthusiasm, efforts & ministry were very much appreciated by so many of us at Victoria Ave. United Church. May you feel God's peace & presence during this time.  Ruth & Dick Roe.

Susan, Jeff, and Mark,
  We're so sorry to hear of Bob's death. He as touched so many lives, and we have such happy memories of when he was at Victoria Ave. and here at Charing Cross. We know how much he will be missed. For health reasons, we won't be able to attend his memorial service, but our thoughts and prayers will be with all of you.  I'm sure you are comforted knowing he is now at peace.               Ross and Ruth Button.

Dear Mark, Susan, Jeff and family-  I was sorry to hear that your father passed away early Saturday morning.  Although I have not kept in touch with him over the years, I have many fond memories of years at Victoria Avenue, many of them funny as he managed to find the humour in what could have been stuffy situations.  My prayers are with you that God's Holy Spirit might come alongside to comfort you and give you courage and peace for the future without his near presence.  In Christ's love, Pastor Marg Moriyama, Chatham, ON

OBITUARY

Rev. Robert James Duthie

8 March, 1939 – 8 May, 2010

T. Little Funeral Home & Cremation Centre

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