Robert (Bob) Charles Bennett

He was born to Stan and Mabel Bennett in Nanaimo, BC, but soon after the family moved to Duncan, and the Cowichan Valley became his forever home.

During his younger years Dad worked in various logging shows, eventually moving from the woods to his job at the Youbou Sawmill where he was employed until his retirement in 1992. He was a strong union advocate, holding many executive positions over the years, supporting all who needed representation.

Dad married Mom on Oct. 4, 1958 and together they built a life full of love, laughter and family. He was always concerned for our well-being, engaged, and interested in all our lives. He loved being a Papa and took great delight in good-natured teasing of all his grandchildren.

Upon retirement, they began travelling all over North America with many longtime friends. What began as a trial to see what a southern winter looked like, started a 14-year tradition of wintering in Yuma, Arizona, where they enjoyed spending time with old friends and new.

His love for fishing began as a young boy in local waters with his dad and continued well into his late seventies. He fished from Cow bay to the head of the island, including Port Renfrew, Port McNeil, Nitnat, and a couple of memorable trips to Haida Gwaii. Golfing was another pastime he enjoyed at which he spent many hours, both at local fairways and while travelling.

Dad had many good friends throughout his life, and in his final years, several close friends kept him social and happy through visits and chats on the phone. Thank you for being such an integral part of his life; we appreciate how much you meant to him. To all his family and friends, thank you for being part of his journey.

Dad was predeceased by his parents, wife Ann, siblings Marlene, Harvey, Malcolm, and great grandson Hugo. He is survived by his sister, Daveda, children Kelly (Steve), Stan (Becky), and Darcy (Mike), grandchildren Kevin (Graham), Mathew (James), Katie, Erin (Brian), Amanda (BJ), Jocie (Felix), and Marcus (Beckie), as well as 5 great grandchildren, Xavier, Grace, Miles, Falyn, and Rhys.

Dad you will be missed beyond words and loved forever.

Please join our family for a casual tea, to be held to celebrate Dad’s life, on Sunday, September 15, 2024 between 1:30 and 3:30, at First Memorial Reception Hall, 375 Brae Road, Duncan.

Dad supported many charities, in particular, the Canadian Cancer Society and the BC Alzheimer’s Society. In lieu of flowers, please donated to a charity of your choice.