November 18, 1925 - November 26, 2008
It is with great sadness that we announce Bob’s passing at Chemainus, BC after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
Predeceased by his parents, Patrick and Kathleen MacMillen, his loving wife of 42 years, Velma Ann in1995, his youngest daughter Maureen Hohner in 2008 and his grandson William Gavin Peters in 1984. Survived by his loving wife Christine, sisters Jean Gallimore and Barbara Hankinson. Daughters Terry Peters (Bill), Coleen Bush and son Patrick. Stepdaughter Pam Dickinson (Ben Hamm), stepsons Tim Dickinson (Holly) and Dave Dickinson. Also survived by 7 grandchildren, 1 great grandson and many nieces, nephews, cousins and close dear friends.
Bob was born and raised in Barons, Alberta. He served in the Canadian Army for 3 years before attending the University of British Columbia where he earned his degree in Forestry Engineering (1953).
While at UBC, Bob fell in love with Velma Robson a pretty city girl from Vancouver, BC. They married and eventually moved to Vancouver Island with their infant daughter Terry. Daughters Coleen, Maureen and son Patrick were born in the ensuing years.
Bob’s early working career was spent timber cruising and in later years he served as manager to BCFP‘s Port Renfrew and Caycuse Logging Divisions. The family moved all over the southern island, living in places such as Bear Creek, Port Renfrew, Tofino, Caycuse, Cowichan Bay and Duncan.
After his first wife Velma passed away, Bob met his present wife Christine and fell in love again. Christine and Bob had 11 enjoyable years together in their retirement.
Bob was an artist (woodturning), scuba diver, hunter, fisherman and outdoorsman he also loved raising his Highland cattle and taking on jobs with his backhoe.
He was a talented swimmer while attending university. He competed in the intramural program and set records in freestyle (the 1500, his favorite). Later in life he received many gold and silver medals, setting records in masters competition until the age of 80 years.
If you were to ask him what his greatest achievement in life was, he would tell you it was his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.
Bob was a majestic man, both in physical stature and in character, commanding respect through his work ethic, fairness, honesty and kindness. The countless number of people whose lives he touched will sorely miss him.
You are welcome to attend a gathering in celebration of Bob’s life on Thursday, December 4th at 2 PM at the Quw’utsun’ Cultural Centre. 200 Cowichan Way, Duncan BC.