Bob was predeceased by his parents Andrew and Grace (nee Mackenzie).
He will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his wife Sandra of 54 years; his children, Todd and Drew (Janis); and grandchildren Jessica, Vanessa and Kaase; and special cousin Wilma MacArthur.
Bob was born in Brandon, Manitoba and first met his dad when he was two years old when he returned from overseas. He had a happy childhood, including annual train vacations over North America. Upon graduation from the University of Manitoba (Brandon College) in 1964, Bob joined General Motors of Canada in customer service. In 1967, he accepted a position at the University of Manitoba as Assistant to the Head of the Department of Chemistry. In 1972, Bob moved to the “Big House” (Administration Building) as Secretary of the Board of Governors and Director of Public Affairs.
Upon early retirement in 1998, he had served the Board of Governors for over 25 years and was also the Executive Director of the University Relations Division, responsible for public affairs, alumni relations and development. After a break, during which he volunteered as the Co-mayor of Athletes Village at the University for the 1999 Pan American games, Bob returned to the University in 2001 as the Executive Assistant to the President until 2008.
Throughout his many years at the University, he felt blessed to have associated with so many dedicated colleagues, Board Chairs, Chancellors and in particular the five Presidents he reported to. In addition to serving on many professional boards and committees, his volunteer activities included: President of Children's Hospital Research Foundation, a member of the Boards of Directors of the Health Sciences Centre and the Winnipeg Rh Institute Foundation Inc.
Bobs long term association with the University was made possible by the loving support and dedication of Sandra, particularly when the boys were young. Family always came first and Bob enjoyed a wonderful life with a close family unit. When the boys were young, there was always a memorable family vacation including the road trip from Winnipeg to Newfoundland. This caused the comment, “Dad, what is wrong with you? ...the airplane has been invented!” Family summers at Clear Lake was a favorite place where amazing memories were created.
Bob was a proud grandfather (Papa) and loved his grandchildren. On weekends, you could always find Papa enjoying his grandchildren’s sports at the hockey rink, basketball court, a soccer field, and ringette games or just spending quality time together watching football games and enjoying family suppers.
Travel and times with good friends were a highlight of his life including European trips with the Smiths and trips with the “Crazy 8’s.”
Bob was blessed with excellent care and compassion from his health care professionals, in particular our family doctor, Dr. Brian Sharkey.
In Bob’s memory, contributions may be made to the University of Manitoba’s Naimark or Szathmary Funds or a charity of choice.
In keeping with Bob’s wishes a private family service will be held.
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