Mr. Robert William Bartlett

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert (Bob) Bartlett at the age of 76. Bob was born on Bell Island, Newfoundland, on October 1, 1942. He was the second child and eldest son of William J. Bartlett and Rose Bartlett. After a short stint in St John’s where Bob attended high school and university, he returned to Bell Island to teach Math and Latin. Bob then moved to Labrador City to work in the mines before heading to Toronto in the spring of 1966, where he and his brother Kyran got off the train in their parkas and gators on a balmy May 24 weekend, ready to take on the world. Bob loved sports and passed on his lifelong appreciation of hockey, in particular the Maple Leafs and the Jets, to his daughters. Bob participated in everything from soccer in his younger years to golf in his twilight years and often regaled those around him with tales of his athleticism (some of which were even true). Bob was most fiercely dedicated to playing and coaching racquetball. He was a member of Manitoba’s Racquetball community for more than 30 years; he played in many national and international tournaments, where he displayed his skills for the game on the court and his sense of humour and jocularity off the court. Bob was a great dad who never failed to give support or provide guidance and was always quick to express how proud he was of his daughters; Kerry (Garett) and Erin (Jason). Precious to Bob were his grandchildren; Riley, Morgan and Kiera, whom he adored. Never did his eyes light up so brightly as when he got to spend time with his “main man” or his “two lovely young ladies,” and he was always certain to have a Kit Kat or three on hand for their visits together. Family was of great importance to Bob and he loved to spend time with his brothers and sisters. Whether golfing in Myrtle Beach, or playing cards at Grandmum’s house, every minute with his siblings brought a smile to his face. “Uncle Bob” also loved sharing special moments with his nieces and nephews; cheering them on at baseball games or showing them how to cut a rug at family weddings. Throughout his lifetime Bob shared his warmth, humour and generosity of spirit with everyone he met. As per his request, cremation has taken place, and a private celebration will be held on Bell Island, Newfoundland at a later date. As Bob aged his social conscience, awareness and acceptance of all grew in a way that surprised even him. Bob was committed to giving a leg up and helping those in need, as such, in lieu of flowers donations to Siloam Mission in memory of Bob would be gratefully accepted.