William (Bob) Robert David Holt

Bob was the beloved husband of Aster, loving father to Donna (Tom), Jeff (Rhonda), the late Robert (Sue), Elena (Sue) and David (Martha). Proud grandfather of Philip (Liberty), Robbie (Ashley), Victoria, Sarah (Devon), Stephanie (Mike), Kimberly (Devyn), Sam (Robin), Sage (Reid), Jonathan and Madilyn and great-grandfather of 8. Bob was a devoted member of St. Mary of the People Parish, and he was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, attaining the honour of the Fourth Degree. He was on his way to mass when he had a fall.

Bob was born in Toronto, the youngest of eight, to Harry and Isabella. Growing up in Toronto’s east end, he was particularly close to his sister Ann, next in age to him, though he revered all his siblings. He married Theresa, the mother of his older children Donna, Jeff and Robert there. Bob eventually moved to Oshawa and later Whitby where he raised his younger children, Elena and David with his devoted wife of almost 60 years, Aster.

Bob had a long, fulfilling career as a heavy vehicle mechanic eventually retiring from Atlantic Packaging 20 years ago. Early in his retirement Bob joined a gym and bought a banjo though he quickly realized that his love for the instrument did not transfer to his ability to play it. Bob persevered with swimming and water aerobics making many friends in the process. He also enjoyed bowling, golf, cottage life, long stays in Hawaii, trips to the East Coast and travelling the world with Aster. He was an accomplished handyman building additions to his cottages and homes and could fix almost anything. His children benefited from his skills learning by his side as they were growing up and as they bought their own homes. Bob was interested in the lives of his children and grandchildren and marvelled in their accomplishments. The last few years had been difficult for Bob, as his strength and health deteriorated, but he continued to be happy and enjoyed his time with Aster, watching countless hours of America’s Got Talent, eating shrimp linguine and even venturing to his weekly swim at the Whitby Civic Centre just days before his fall. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Visitors will be received at the Oshawa Funeral Home 847 King St W, Oshawa on Friday, August 14, 2026, from 4-8pm. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary of the People Parish 570 Marion Ave, Oshawa at Stevenson Rd N on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 11:00am with interment to follow.