It is with shock,disbelief, completely shattered hearts and extreme sadness that we, the family, of Cst. Robert James Davies (Poppy Robert) announce his sudden and tragic passing on Wednesday September 20th, just two days after his 65th birthday.
Poppy Robert was born in Donkin, N.S on September 18th 1957 to Bobby and the late Dorothy Davies. He attended school there and graduated from Donkin Morien High in 1978. Following high school, Poppy Robert worked in the maintenance department at the Glace Bay General Hospital as well as driving an ambulance with Curry’s Ambulance where he met his wife Wendy. In 1982, Poppy Robert began his career as police officer with the CBRPS where he spent 41 years doing what he loved. He was committed to his work and proved himself as a devoted police officer within the police service. He excelled in his career and each section he worked in. Major crime and traffic investigation were two of his favourite. Robert enjoyed taking courses to advance his knowledge. Some of his favourites were Advanced Collision Analyst, Forensic Interviewing and Statement Analysis and Interview & Interrogation. He loved what he did and he did it well. We will forever be so proud of him for his service to our community. Being the committed and diligent police officer he was, he always gave friendly reminders to the owners of cars in his driveway that their plates or stickers were (about to) expire. His reminders usually fell on deaf ears with his daughters and their friends.
From a young age, Poppy Robert had a love for music. His favourite instrument was the guitar, which he played with passion .He played in many bands over the years, in particular, the Donkin Brass Band, Marlena and most recently with Brian Degaust and Ricky Macleod. He also enjoyed attending concerts and listening to music in his garage.
Poppy didn’t enjoy sitting still; he was a man on the move. He spent numerous hours in his garage woodworking and planning his next project which usually included a “great find” from market place. Poppy was also the master of dad jokes. He kept us all entertained with his humour. He and his daughter Lisa would often debate who was funnier, he usually won the debates with a famous “one-liner”.
Poppy was the jack of all trades. In our eyes, he could do anything and everything. He could fix or build anything he put his mind to. He was also the new proud co-owner of Papa Eli’s food truck. He was so excited helping start this new business adventure with our family. He took pride in every moment spent there.
Poppy Robert was a true family man. His pride and joy was his two girls and six grandchildren whom his world revolved around. He rarely missed a basketball game or sporting event. He drove kids to school and daycare and always made sure the pool was in great shape for a swim. He never missed a birthday or holiday and cherished every moment he spent with them. Poppy spent his whole life surrounded by his girls until 2022 when his first grandson, Walker James, was born. He had a path worn to Halifax for frequent visits to his daughter Melissa’s so he could soak up every moment with them.
Robert is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Wendy (Moores) Davies. Two daughters who he was so proud of, Lisa (Shane Harte) and Melissa (Daniel Howie). Father Bob Davies. Sister Charlene (Richie Green). Brothers-in-law John Moores (Donna), Peter Moores (Dorothy) and Keith Moores (Julie). Sister-in-law Jean (Bill Macdonald). Uncle Jimmy Davies (Martha), Arthur Legrow and Aunt Myrna Davies.
Grandchildren Gracie, Allie Kate, Harper, Emmie, Walker and Austyn. Many nieces, nephews and cousins. Poppy Robert will also be deeply missed by neighbour and friend Mary Skinner who thought of him as a son.
He will also be missed by long time friend Allister Edwards and his walking/ breakfast buddies Ross Carabin and Blair Gentile.
Poppy Robert was predeceased by Mother Dorothy Davies. Mother-in-law and father-in-law Pam and John Moores. Grandparents Jim and Daisy (Parsons) Legrow and Liz and Charlie Davies. Uncle Freddy Davies, Aunt Lillian LeGrow and long time friend Clarence Matheson.
The family would like to express a sincere thank you to the staff at the CBRH ED and ICU. You all went above and beyond to give dad the best care possible. Your kindness to our family will never be forgotten. Also thank you to members of the CBRPS for their support during this difficult time. Special thank you to Dr Holmes, Dr. Power, Dr. MacKay and Dr. K. Thana for their exceptional care. We also cannot put into words how grateful we are for Angela Ford, Glenn Ford and Neha Chaturvedi. We can never repay you for standing by our side during this tragic time.
Visitations will be held at Pattens funeral home in Glace Bay on Monday, September 25th from 4-8pm. Funeral service will be held Tuesday, September 26th at 1pm in the community room at the Glace Bay Miners Forum. online condolences can be sent to the family www.pattenfuneral.com
