It is with great sadness that we announce that Bob, born on November 16th, 1931 in Regina, Saskatchewan, passed away peacefully at home in Abbotsford, B.C. on October 22nd, 2021 at the age of 89. Bob is survived by his wife Lillian, son Bradley, daughter Linda (George), grandsons Matthew (Marnie) and Kevin (Tamara). He is also survived by many relatives and friends.
Bob was predeceased by his parents Albert and Mary and brother Ed.
Bob worked for Finning Tractor for 35 years and retired in 1991. He was involved with the Finning Retirees Association since its inception and volunteered in many different capacities.
Always interest in aeronautics, in the 1970’s Bob trained for and received his private pilots license. He often took as passengers many family members and friends for air-tours of southwest B.C., much to their delight, and his.
In his retirement he enjoyed travelling, golfing, RVing, getting together with friends and relatives and his volunteer work.
Bob was one of the best of us. His intellect and quiet dignity were always balanced with his wit and humour. Bob could recognize and laugh at the absurdities that life often provides, and also laugh at himself (then tell you about it). His heart, like his home, was open and warm and welcoming. Bob was unfailingly kind and would help anyone who needed it, in any way he could. Anyone who knew him could attest to this.
Yet, what many don’t know (simply because it wasn’t Bob’s way to “advertise”), is that his generosity extended far beyond his loved ones. In addition to his own personal charitable donations throughout his life, he has also devoted decades of his time, energy, and resources to charitable works through his church and the Knights of Columbus. With Bob’s help (and often under his direction), they have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to aid countless people in need, in Canada and abroad.
These same people will never know him. They will therefore never feel the loss of this truly great man as acutely as we do. However, they will also never know our gift: we have been blessed by the presence of Bob Kish in our lives.
The world is indeed diminished by his passing. We are not.
Funeral Mass to be held at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church 16079 – 88 Avenue, Surrey, B.C. on Saturday, November 6th at 11:00 a.m. Reception to follow in the Jubilee Hall at the church after Mass.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or any charity of your choice, in his memory, would be appreciated.
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