1951 – 2012
After a seven month battle with Cancer, Bob was released from his illness on September 8, 2012. Born and raised in Peterborough, Ontario, Bob moved to the West Coast to work as a Merchant Mariner on log ships and tug boats. He worked for MacMillan-Bloedell, Kingcome and Seaspan until his retirement in 2004. Upon retirement, Bob turned his considerable energy to travel and visited more than 33 countries. He researched the culture, history and geography of each. He carried medical supplies and small tools to third world environments. Bob brought back treasures from each place and was indeed a “soft touch” for any child selling souvenirs. We will miss his wit, his intelligence, his generosity and his irrepressible ability to make us laugh. Bob is predeceased by his partner, Ann Ratel in 2002; parents, Daniel and Marie; sister, Kathryn; brother, Wayne and in-laws, Peter and Peggy Ratel. Bob is mourned by his partner, Jannelle Rethus of Port Macquarie, Australia, who accompanied him home to Victoria and lovingly cared for him during the months of his illness. Bob is mourned by his family, sisters, Joanne (Brian Seabrook) of Ontario and Elaine (Sam Peters) of Florida; brothers, Daniel (Susan, deceased 2009) and Richard (Jan) both of Ontario and by the Ratel family. Bob is mourned as well by his friends in Australia.
A Celebration of Life will be held at McCall’s Downtown, Johnson & Vancouver Streets, at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, September 13, 2012 with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s memory would be appreciated to Victoria Hospice at www.victoriahospice.org
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
-
Heather MacDougall
-
Laurie MacDougall Dittrich Janelle, Joanne and family,
I am so sorry for your loss.
Bob was one of my best friends for over thirty years. I was constantly amazed by his brilliant mind, quick wit and easy smile. He was a true friend and my world has become a little darker without him in it …. I will miss him all the days of my life.
I was heartbroken to hear the news of Bob’s passing. He was such a gifted person with his sharp mind and endless wit. Bob was also a real gentleman. One only needs to take a look around to notice that there are very few true gentlemen among us. Sadly there is one less now. My thoughts are with his partner Janelle, his family and all of his friends. Bob will be sadly missed.