Robert Baier

      Robert Baier was known as many things to many people. He was a loved one, a friend, and someone special. To family and friends who knew him best, Robert will be remembered as an outstanding individual.

       He was the son of Edward and Emma Baier. Robert grew up in Ukraine and Germany and emigrated to Canada in 1950.

      Robert was raised with six siblings. He had four older sisters Maita, Zelma and the late Frieda and Alma and two younger brothers Martin and Arthur. Robert was usually involved in all sorts of activities with his siblings. He and his siblings experienced rivalries typical of a growing family, but they shared many life experiences over the years.

      On December 12, 1953 Robert exchanged wedding vows with Margaret Kotowski at Grace Lutheran Church of Oshawa, Ontario. Empathic and loyal, Robert was committed to making his new family happy.

      Robert worked hard to be a good father to his children and he did his best to fulfill their needs. Robert was blessed with three daughters, Susan, Linda and Judy. Another blessing for Robert was the gift of nine grandchildren, Jocelyn, Michelle, Matthew, Michael, Rachel, Brendon, Vanessa, Nicole and the late Robbie and great grandchildren Benjamin and Calleigh.

      Fortunately, Robert enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Robert worked diligently and did his best to succeed in his career. His primary occupation was in Shipping and Receiving. He was employed for 43 years at Johnsmanville in Scarborough, Ontario. Robert always sought to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done.

      Robert enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were gardening, playing accordian, singing in ghe choir, playing cards and casino slots. He was content to enjoy his favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share his interests with others.

      Robert found pleasure in sports. Recreational sports included bowling and walking. Robert was also something of a sports fan and enjoyed following his favorite events whenever he had the chance to do so. Tops on his list were Toronto Maple Leaf Hockey and Toronto Blue Jays Baseball.

      Robert’s faith was important to him. He was a member of Grace Lutheran Church for many years. During that time, he was an Elder.

      Though he never set out to gain individual recognition, Robert was given accolades for his many and varied accomplishments throughout his life. Some of his most prestigious awards included the Award of Excellence for his flower beds form Communities in Bloom Whitby.

      Robert enjoyed traveling and time away on vacations. It was a chance for him to renew and relax, to visit new places and experience new things. Favorite vacations included Hawaii, Florida, Argentina, South America, Germany and many U. S. Bus trips.

      Robert was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. His family was rounded out by his two cats Cleo and Mitzi.

      When Robert’s retirement finally arrived in 1995, he was well prepared. In retirement, he found new pleasure in gardening at home and enjoyed his most recent home at The Colonial Residence in Whitby. Even in retirement, Robert continued to stay in touch with his old friends while making plenty of new acquaintances. Robert was active in his new community and felt fulfilled with the opportunities retirement offered him.

      Robert passed away on March 26, 2009 at Lakeridge Health in Oshawa, Ontario. He is survived by his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Services were held at Grace Lutheran Church. Robert was laid to rest in Thornton Cemetery in Oshawa, Ontario.

      Simply stated, Robert was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Robert leaves behind him a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Robert Baier.