Robert Frederick Thatcher

(Col. Ret'd.) Despite his overcoming numerous medical challenges over the last several years, we didn't get the miracle we were hoping for this time. Our Dad passed away, peacefully, in the early morning of October 21, 2009 at Sunnybrook Hospital, with Mom, his one true love, by his side. His almost 73 years were full. From humble beginnings on a farm in Southern Ontario, at age 17, he joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in order to finance the Honours Chemistry degree he received from the University of Western Ontario. During those 4 years of university, he trained as a flight navigator in the summers. In 1962 he was accepted at UWO Medical school, from which he graduated in 1966. He also received his Diploma in Public Health from U of T in 1972. From there, the family moved to San Antonio, Texas where he earned a certification in Aerospace Medicine at Brooks Air Force Base. Over the course of his career, Dad saw much of the world and performed a number of unique and challenging roles including navigating CF-100 and CF-101 "Voodoo" fighter jets and being a Senior Medical Officer at Comox where he performed crash-site investigations and medical air evacuations. He finished his military career as Command Surgeon of Air Command at Winnipeg. After retiring from the military, he worked as a medical consultant for various private companies. The most important aspect of his life was his family, which all began in 1962, when he married Mom. A three-week courtship was all Dad needed to know he had met his soulmate. Through 47 years of marriage Mom and Dad remained inseparable. Along the way, they have been blessed with 5 children and 12 grandchildren, who will all miss his kind and generous nature. After family and work, Dad's third love was golf, which he was able to enjoy so much with his family and friends over the last several years. His crafty short game around the greens was unbeatable. Husband, father, grandfather, doctor, navigator, world traveler, cottager, golfer and sports fan-he led a rich and meaningful life. We sincerely appreciate the doctors and staff at Sunnybrook for their efforts and care.

Go Greenbank Dad.

Friends may call on Sunday, October 25, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. at the R.S. Kane Funeral Home (6150 Yonge Street, at Goulding, south of Steeles). A Funeral Service will be held on Sunday, October 25, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel. Cremation. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the Sunnybrook Hospital, Kidney Foundation or Charity of Your Choice.