MCMILLAN, Robert (Bob)

January 1, 1970 — January 1, 1970

Passed away unexpectedly on August 7th, 2017. He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years Joyce, his daughter Sydney, granddaughter Tyra, great granddaughter Evie, sister Judy, and many loving nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his son Robert, his brother Raymond, and sister Patricia.
Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba in 1930, the oldest child in his family, Bob grew up during the depression in Winnipeg’s north end. At 13 he lied about his age and joined the Winnipeg Light Infantry where he served as a gunner until 1949. He then joined the Royal Canadian Air Force as an aircraft technician and in 1959 registered as air crew and trained to be a navigator. During his 29 years of service, Bob was promoted to rank of Major and worked in Air Navigation in support of UN and NATO operations. He had postings in Winnipeg, MB; Toronto, ON; Greenwood and Halifax, NS; Summerside, PEI; Comox, BC; and Ramstein, Germany as well as shorter assignments worldwide.
In addition to his military service Bob had venerable construction skills, was a talented painter, a skillful jeweler, and had a keen eye for design. As well, he was a generous friend, helping to build houses and cabins, lending cars and tools, and offering inventive solutions to any problem. He spent much of his spare time during his career renovating the houses he bought during his postings and turned the mundane into the spectacular, adding sun-rooms, skylights, saunas, bay windows, and water features. He also wrote a number of essays on design and innovations that he sent to various government officials and corporate leaders. Many of his ideas were well received and he earned several recognitions and an award or two for his efforts.

Bob retired at the age of 48 to spend time with his family and do the things he loved to do. In 1979 he moved into his dream house by the lake in Kelowna, BC where he continued to work on home maintenance projects until his recent death. He was curious, adventurous, and hardworking to the end. He traveled the world and explored new places, ideas, and activities including boating, tennis, skiing, and at 78 he even gave rock climbing a try. His family and friends will miss his warm laugh, his quick wit, and his big heart.
A sincere thank you to Bob’s friends and family, so many of whom have offered thoughtful and incredible support. There is no memorial planned at this time. In lieu of flowers, if you wish to offer something in his memory, please make a donation to one of his favourite animal charities, such as the BC SPCA or the World Wildlife Fund. If you wish to send a condolence, post photos or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Share Your Condolences.”

Service Details

The service for MCMILLAN, Robert (Bob) is scheduled for No service by request. Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.

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