March 29th, 1950, age 72 of Callander, Ontario
It is with profound sadness the family announces the unexpected passing of Bob at home on July 16th. Predeceased by his parents Joseph and Yolande Barnes (Payette) from Thunder Bay, Ontario. Bob was loving father to Birch Dale Barnes (Jessica Lowther), and Terra Lynne Barnes (Rolland Shawn Degagne). Most importantly, Bob was Grampa to Hunter and Ryland Barnes, and Baye and Mac Degagne. Bob was also survived by siblings Donald Barnes (Barbara Zale), Suzanne Lee (Steve Lee), Paulette Tyl (late Peter Tyl), and Mitch Barnes. He was known as ‘Fun Uncle Bob’ to his many nieces and nephews. Bob is lovingly remembered by his ex-wife, Donna Shankowsky-Day.
From an early age, Bob was a determined dreamer, an entrepreneur and a naturalist, often being compared to Grey Owl. He began his career as a birch bark canoe builder at Old Fort William in Thunder Bay. He was a skilled home designer and builder. Bob was a logger, owning his own forestry company. He then followed his love of trapping and moved his family to the North Bay area to become the Executive Director for the Ontario Trappers Association. Above all, Bob’s greatest love was time spent on his trapline with his family where he felt most at peace. Over the years his entrepreneurial spirit and outdoor experiences led to the creation of other eco-based businesses. Most recently Bob was planning another birch bark canoe build. His final years were spent with his family enjoying Lake Nipissing. Life was an adventure. He walked to the beat of his own drum. Bob enjoyed each day to its fullest! He will rest in his most treasured place on earth, his trapline in Northwestern Ontario.
If desired, donations to the Diabetes Foundations Canada would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.
Arrangements entrusted to Martyn Funeral Home