Robert left his earthly nest to soar with eagles on January 19, 2016. A native west coaster, born an only child to parents, Walter and Dorothy on July 8, 1937 in Vancouver, BC. Robert moved to Victoria at the age of 20 for his dream job at Defense Research Establishment Pacific (DREP) until he retired 36 years later. He went on to design and build the Hornby Island Eagle Cam which allowed up close and personal internet viewing in real time of an eagle’s nest. Many of his custom wildlife cameras led to recording previously undocumented behaviors aiding Provincial Biologist in their conservation research. His passionate approach, interests and talents wove themselves into a beautiful tapestry that was his life; photographer, videographer, birder, naturalist, outdoorsman. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, kid entertainer, gadget creator.
Robert is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Elma; son, Jeff (Betty); daughter, Katrina; grandson, Philip; the Bewdley gang and many relatives and friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Habitat Acquisition Trust, Alzheimer’s Society or BC Search and Rescue Assoc. (BCSARA) are appreciated.
Thank you to the many helping angels encountered by our family during the past few years of Robert’s journey with Alzheimer’s. We had many adventures with him and received many gifts of healing and spirit along the way. His presence is deeply missed.
Celebration of life at a near future date.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall’s Funeral Home
www.mccallbros.com
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Gordon and Lynda Ebbeson
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Linda Pakos (Hurrell) Elma and family,
My brother Martin and myself would like to offer our condolences to you and your family at this very difficult time.
I watched the web cam on a number of occasions and can’t tell you how much I enjoyed it.
We still have fond memories of our visits to Bewdley Avenue.
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Mike Muirhead Dear Elma and family,
Bob was a prince of a man! I am sorry to hear of his passing.
Sincerely,
Mike Muirhead
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Wilma de Vries Dear Elma, Jeff, Betty, Katrina and Philip,
I am sad for the impact of the loss of his passing you are each experiencing in many different ways; as he was a very much loved partner, dad, father-in-law and Grand-pa. Each of you will hold on to different stories of meaningful interactions with him and they will bring you his warmth and comfort when reflected upon. I wish you gentle strength in the moments and ways your are each needing, in the movements of a day, a week, month and year ahead.
For me he was always so welcoming and friendly, engaged in some interesting project, very brilliant in numerous ways and his love for nature was on-going and evident. I have a beautiful photo he took of a vibrant blue birds eggs in a snug nest of woven twigs, absolutely admired his eye and celebration of nature! With warmth, Wilma de Vries
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Sharon mauger (Hussey) Elma,Katrina and Jeff,
So sorry to hear of your loss.
My thoughts are with you at this time.
Hold on to the great memories. I
Know their are many.Sharon Mauger (Hussey)
To Elma and family. Please accept my deepest sympathy. Bob taught me many things during our time together at DREP. A little bit about electronics, and a whole lot about having a positive outlook and how to work in harmony with others. It came in very handy during the years that followed. Gordon Ebbeson.