Obituaries

WILLIAM ROBERT (BOB) IRELAND

With deep sorrow we announce the passing of Bob Ireland on Wednesday, December 25, 2019 at the age of 92 years.

Left to cherish Bob’s memory are his two sisters June Horan and Ev Adams and his loving children Sandra (Jack), Valerie (Lorne), Ron, Colleen; six grandchildren; and six great grandchildren.

Bob grew up on the University of Manitoba campus; he attended school in Fort Garry, United College as well as the University of Manitoba.

Starting as a baggage handler and then working as a fireman, brakeman and conductor on CN and VIA trains powered by steam to diesel locomotives, Bob was very grateful for his lengthy career with the CNR.  Much more so for the colleagues and his many friends made there, which he would happily advocate for when needed; Bob served as President of the Brotherhood of Railway Trainmen; then the United Transportation Union Local 1874 for 21 years.

Bob was an active member of the Shriners Oriental Band for a great many years and could be counted upon for his love of humour. Bob was fortunate to enjoy the excitement and diversity of different countries through travel. Whether it was enjoying Mexico, the beaches of Hawaii, or one of the many other destinations travelled, he could always be counted on to offer a rum and coke to all those who engaged in and appreciated his many stories.

A dedicated and strong-willed man, Bob and his late wife Eileen lovingly built a cottage on Nora Lake, where they spent their summers appreciating nature’s gifts and the great friends they made there. When not summering at the cottage, Bob and Eileen spent a number of years wintering in Phoenix where they made even more friends, all of which they have always been grateful for. His love and passion for his children and grandchildren, and life in general was undeniable and unconditional.

A spirited fighter, Bob passed late Christmas Day, with loving family members by his side.

A Celebration of Bob’s Life will be held on Thursday, April 16, 2020 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Canad Inns – Fort Garry, 1824 Pembina Highway, Winnipeg.

The family extends the kindest thanks to the staff and residents at Riverwood Square while Bob resided there, and the staff at the St. Boniface Hospital cardiac unit.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children; 1155 Wilkes Avenue, Winnipeg, MB  R3P 1B9

Condolences may be sent to www.wojciksfuneralchapel.com