Robert Barr Cliffe

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Robert (Bob) Barr Cliffe, on July 1, 2023 at Kamloops, BC, in The Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Memorial Hospice. His loved ones were by his side. With bravery and stoicism, Bob fought a short battle with pancreatic cancer; in his typical fashion, he complained not once.

Born in Kelowna BC, on October 22, 1952, Bob was known by most as ‘Friendly Bob,’ and ‘Recycling Bob’ to many of the neighbours. He could talk easily with anyone, and never seemed to be in a hurry.

Bob had been a Certified Management Accountant. He had a 34 year career with the Provincial Government Ministry of Small Business and Revenue - Consumer Tax Audit Branch, retiring as a Senior Auditor fifteen years ago.

Bob enjoyed walking, hiking, camping (especially near water), traveling the globe, and spending time with his friends and loved ones. He was a gentleman - and a gentle man, known to be kind, helpful and possessing a soft, but sly humour. Bob always said his proudest accomplishment was his three beautiful daughters; he was forever showing off the latest photos.

By his side when he passed was Bob’s wife Karin, whom he’d met ten years ago. Theirs was truly a match made in heaven; they’d just celebrated their seventh anniversary, in Maui, on May 21, 2023. Somewhere along the way Bob and Karin dubbed themselves “Hank and Bubbles” and it just stuck. They enjoyed wonderful travels together, particularly in this past year, once Karin had retired. Bob liked to say she was the “best travel buddy.”

Bob had been a long-term member and “king” of the spin class at the local YMCA and could put a fit 30-year-old to shame. He often said he was the token male AND the token senior in most of those classes. He loved to play crib, and cards and was keenly, but quietly competitive. If he lost two rounds of crib in a row to Karin, the board would simply disappear.

The simplest pleasures in life brought great joy to Bob: A good glass of dark or amber ale; enjoying good conversation; reading a great Ian Rankin novel. He could spend hours puttering around the garden, keeping it looking green, tidy, weed free, and full of blooms. Bob was one of those guys that knew the names of all the dogs in the entire, extended neighbourhood, and was especially close to his favourite “borrow dog” Brae. He was devoted to his community, often volunteering his time to Rotary projects and various fundraising ventures, and was a constant supporter of multiple charities and causes dear to him. He was a dedicated and loving husband, an incredibly proud father, and a kind and patient grandfather.

Bob is survived by his loving spouse Karin Sykes, his three cherished daughters Erin, Shannon, and Alanna Cliffe, and his five vibrant grandchildren Maia, Cohen, Aubrey, Fionn, and Esme. Additionally, by his dear stepchildren Chris and Tina Sykes, and his two beloved nephews Steven Hyde, Brian Hyde and his son Kale. Bob was preceded in death by his father Arthur, mother Christena and sister Margaret.

Bob made a lasting impact on many lives; his absence will be deeply felt. He will be forever missed by all that knew him and loved him.

A Celebration of Life for Bob will be held from 1:00 - 4:00 on Saturday August 26, 2023 at the Kamloops Sports Council Clubhouse on MacArthur Island.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a kind donation to either:

-Pancreatic Cancer Canada: https://pancreaticcancercanada.ca/

-Kamloops Hospice Association: https://www.kamloopshospice.com