Obituaries

Robert Denis Lovatt

January 15, 1949 - July 3, 2019

ROBERT DENIS (BOB) LOVATT
1949 – 2019

 

With his family by his side, Bob passed away on July 3. Born in Montreal, Bob grew up on RCAF bases in Quebec, Ontario and Manitoba. After graduating from the University of Manitoba, he settled in Winnipeg – where he married the love of his life Valoree and started a family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend who will be lovingly remembered for his strength, courage, honesty, kindness and generous spirit – his children and grandchild were his life’s pride and joy.

A lifelong educator and Governor General’s Academic Medal recipient, Bob enjoyed his years as a teacher and then administrator at Stonewall Centennial School, where the Robert Lovatt Gymnasium is a testament to his passion for sport. He was an accomplished athlete who competed in the Halifax Canada Summer Games and was invited to Olympic trials. His provincial triple jump record went unbroken for 38 years, and his stature made him a natural at basketball. He was also a passionate fan of professional sports and his sons’ activities, coaching soccer and hockey. His enthusiasm was over the top (and occasionally over the glass). He was an avid golfer and long-time member of Breezy Bend Country Club, where many lasting friendships began.

Left to cherish Bob’s memory are his wife of 44 years Valoree, sons Chris (Meagan) and Andrew (Debbie), granddaughter Marcella and her mother Miriam, sister Karen (Bob), sister-in-law Lyla (Les) and nieces Jessica, Laura, Kristen and Elizabeth. He was predeceased by his parents Denis and Lyn, and brother Brian.

We wish to thank the countless staff, especially doctors and nurses, of Grace Hospital 4S, CancerCare and Riverview Health Centre 3E for their amazing compassion and care.

A family celebration of life will be held at a later date. All are encouraged to share memories at Winnipeg Free Press Passages.

“Forever Missed”