Robert Gordon Finch

If anyone ever cared, really cared for someone else it would have to be Robert Gordon Finch. He was a warm hearted and well liked individual, and these wonderful traits came easily to him because he was such a sociable and amiable person, someone who was always making certain that those around him had whatever they needed. Robert was a talkative person who was tactful at all times but typically said what he meant.

      Robert was born on at home in Toronto, Ontario. He was the son of Archie and Irene Finch. Robert was raised in the Danforth Road area in Toronto, Ontario. During his childhood he learned to be reliable and respectful. Robert was an obedient child who wanted to win the favour of others. He found it easy to show sympathy and to perform kind acts for others. These admirable qualities would become a part of Robert's personality throughout his life.

      Though Robert was frequently the one to initiate games and activities with his family, he was also quite often the family member who took the role of referee. Robert was a peace-maker with an ability to resolve all sorts of family conflicts. In fact, Robert worked conscientiously to keep those typical family spats at bay. Robert was raised with two brothers and one sister. He had one older brother Albert (deceased), younger brother Thomas (deceased) and one sister Sheila. Robert and his siblings had the typical rivalries while growing up, but they cared deeply for one another.

      As someone who reveled in the sheer joy of his experiences, Robert was always enthusiastic about new adventures. Although he had an exacting nature, Robert was always tactful. One thing Robert will certainly be remembered for is that, when he got up in the mornings, he was ready and raring to go. As a young boy, Robert had a number of interests and was an active child. Robert played baseball with his friends. In his spare time he also enjoyed playing cards with his friends. One of Robert's memorable achievements was taking care of his mother, brother and sister after his father and older brother passed away.

      There was one thing that all of Robert's friends knew and will still remember, and that is that he was a talker. He could pretty much talk to anybody about anything. This quality is one of the primary reasons that Robert was such a popular person throughout his life. But Robert was also dependable, loyal and trustworthy. Robert was the kind of person who simply radiated good fellowship. While he maintained personal standards and his own personal values, Robert was very accepting of others. With a distinct skill for working things out, Robert was often the person who would organize events. In fact, Robert was fairly comfortable playing the role of “host” for just about any occasion. When Robert made friends, he made true and lasting friendships. While growing up, some of his best friends were Don Littlejohn, Billy and Max. Later in life, he became friends with, Ken and Fern Flowers while maintaining his friendship with Don Littlejohn.

      Robert was a faithful and loving person. Some would even call him sentimental and a romantic at heart. His kindness and consideration radiated an aura of warmth to those around him. Robert cared for what others thought and carried that into his marriage. On July 31, 1970 Robert married Florence Elizabeth Littlejohn at Salvation Army Church on Broadview Avenue of Toronto, Ontario. Compassionate and devoted, Robert worked hard to make his new life partner happy.

      Harmony was important to Robert and he made every effort to maintain it with his family. Robert was blessed with two boys, Robert Finch Jr. and John Puddicombe (Stepson) he raised John from two years old. They were also blessed with four grandchildren, Cole, Kylie, Sara and Steven. Robert was always conscious of the feelings others had. He was reasonable and understanding. As a result, Robert was quick to solve disputes and did so without much fuss. His secret of success in this area was simple: Robert would listen before he would act.

      Taking his work seriously came naturally to Robert, and he expected the same from those around him. Robert was a good team player, someone who was born to cooperate with others. He was what some would call a “people person” and it was demonstrated in his good communication skills. Robert was a steady worker, one who was realistic about schedules. The kind of details that would give family members and work colleagues fits were situations that Robert handled well. He could understand the details without getting lost in the broad “big picture.” His primary occupation was a Tin Smith, Furnace Installations. He was employed for 58 years working as a Tin Smith. He brought harmony to his work environment, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done, while always maintaining respect for his colleagues.

      A methodical man, Robert enjoyed spending time working on his various hobbies. He had no problem following all of the steps and instructions on a given project and was proud of the fact that he could have something to show for his efforts. His favourite pursuits were golfing, watching sports on TV or going to games.

      Robert was one of those people who took pride in constantly putting forth his best effort. Nowhere was that more visible than in sports. Robert was always enthusiastic and a great team player. Recreational sports included bowling, golfing and playing cards. Robert also liked being a sports fan and enjoyed following his favourite teams whenever he got the opportunity. Tops on his list to watch were football, baseball and golf.

      Robert was the kind of person who would readily move into action in order to help others. He was appreciated and respected. He could find value in the opinions of others and was passionate about his own values and beliefs. So it’s little wonder that he was active and highly valued by those in his community, serving on committees for the Royal Canadian Legion as Legion Member.

      Not only did Robert enjoy traveling, but he also seemed to enjoy planning all of those trips and vacations. He was a facilitator who could easily make up a near perfect schedule of all of the things to do and see. He rarely tired of going back and revisiting his favourite places. Favourite vacations included may trips to the East Coast, Cuba and Dominican Republic.

      Robert was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of his favourites was Spade a poodle, who was his best friend for five years.

      Since it was easy for Robert to meet and get to know new people, he quickly made friends, even in retirement. Once he met those new friends, he loved sharing stories and talking about the good old days. Since he was practical and cost effective, Robert was ready when that day to retire finally came in 2010. His new life involved relocating to Oshawa, Ontario. In retirement, he found new pleasure in lawn darts, cards and bocci ball. Even in retirement, Robert stayed in touch with his old friends and made plenty of new acquaintances. He was active in the community and felt fulfilled with the opportunities that retirement offered him.

      Robert passed away on October 1, 2014 at home. After a long battle with medical issues. He is survived by his wife Florence and sons Robert and John, sister Sheila and grandchildren. Services were held at Oshawa Funeral Home. Robert was laid to rest in Pine Hills Cemetery in Scarborough.

      Robert was a fantastic conversationalist who could engage just about anyone in a discussion. And whenever he said something, he meant it. Robert was a down to earth person, outgoing and gregarious. He was without question the type of person who enjoyed experiencing things first hand. He was practical and sensible, but what friends and family will remember him for most is the fact that he was so understanding and kind. Everyone whose life he touched will miss Robert Gordon Finch.

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FINCH, Robert Gordon

Peacefully at his residence, with his family by his side on Wednesday, October 1st, 2014, just shy of his 76th birthday. Beloved husband of Florence (nee Littlejohn). Loving father of Robert (Terry) Finch and John (Jodi) Puddicombe. Cherished Poppy of Cole and Kylie, and Sara and Steven. Dear brother of Sheila Watson and the late Albert and Thomas Finch. He will be fondly remembered by his family and friends. Visitation will be held at OSHAWA FUNERAL HOME, 847 King Street West (905-721-1234) on Tuesday, October 7th from 2 – 4 and 7 – 9 p.m. Funeral Service will be held in the Chapel on Wednesday, October 8th at 11:00 a.m. Interment Pine Hills Cemetery. Memorial donations to the Ontario Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated.