Obituary of ROBERT STANLEY FORBES

ROBERT STANLEY FORBES

August 28, 1934 to September 24, 2024

Robert Stanley Forbes’ life was one that was well-lived and on September 24, 2024, at 90 years of age, he passed from this life peacefully and surround by his family.

Bob was born to Walter and Mathilda Forbes in Winnipeg, Manitoba on August 28, 1934. He was the middle child with an older sister, Joan, and younger sister, Lorraine. Bob grew up on the west side of the city and one of his favourite stories to tell was how he would help the milkman make his deliveries via horse and cart when he was a child. One day the milkman allowed him to take the reins, and Bob accidentally tipped the cart, spilling milk all over Portage Avenue.

At the age of 17, Bob joined the military. He served with The Princess Patricia Canadian Light Infantry during the Korean War. Upon his return home after the war, Bob married Eleanor Billedeau. Together they had sons Robert and Glenn. Eleanor passed suddenly when Bobby and Glenn were young.

In 1965, Bob met Carol Brooker and in 1967 they were married. Bob and Carol spent 50 years together, building a life of love, contentment and companionship. He was heartbroken when she passed suddenly in 2021. During their years together they had three sons Darrell (deceased in 1967), Darren and Brad. Their home was a full and busy one. Their sons were involved in a variety of activities and Bob was a hands-on dad, often taking the boys fishing, camping and out to the ball diamond. These early years of family life were also filled with road trips, hosting gatherings in their home and participating in events hosted by Bob’s employer, Centra Gas.

Bob was also a sports enthusiast, and he enjoyed sharing his love of sport with his sons. They would often go golfing and cross-country skiing together. He also played softball, joined curling leagues and took up jogging to spend time with his boys. Later in life, he enjoyed nothing more than popping some popcorn and watching a game of whatever was on TV with his sons.

After working for Centra Gas for 40 years, Bob retired and enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. He continued in his curling league and on his soft ball team until he was nearly 80 years old. In retirement, Bob pursued a new interest in woodworking, specifically in intarsia. He created many beautiful pieces which he sold at The Forks and gifted to his family.

Bob was a wonderful grandfather. He was always interested in the lives and activities of his grandchildren. He attended concerts and sporting events proudly. And when the grandchildren came to visit, he loved catching up on their lives and hearing about all the things that interested them. Grandpa Bob also had an undeniable sweet tooth that would often lead him to snacking on his ever-ready stash of jube-jubes – and of course, sharing them with the grandkids.

Bob was a beautiful soul with a gentle and loving heart. He had a great sense of humor and a deep love for his family. He was faithfully devoted to the well-being of those he loved and was always aware of the needs and comfort of others. He fulfilled his responsibilities as a son, brother, husband and father earnestly and was loved for the devotion he showed to those in his care. He will be deeply missed by his sons Bob (Linda), Glenn (Gayle), Darren and Brad (Nichole) and his many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchild.

The family would like to thank the staff of Concordia Hospital and Park Manor for the care they provided to Bob over the last years. Your kindness made all the difference.

Funeral service will be held on Monday, October 7 at 11:00 a.m. at Park City Gospel Church, 751 Kildare Avenue East with interment to follow at Brookside Cemetery, 3001 Notre Dame Ave.