Robert Bourchier

Robert (Bob) James Bourchier

Passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 21, 2014, in the presence of family members after a long struggle with PSP (atypical Parkinson's Disease). Demonstrating courage and without complaint he was an example of grace under enormous pressure and teaching by example was his way throughout his life. He is survived by his wife and partner of 61 years , Anne, who with him raised Jim (Deb), Jane Murray (Peter) and Rob (Danica). He was a wonderful Grandpa to James and Erin Murray, Stephanie and Jillian Bourchier and Genna and Tessa Bourchier. Bob was born in London Ontario on December 28, 1927. He attended the University of Toronto and graduated with a forestry degree in 1951. He joined the Canadian Forest Service and went on to complete his Masters and Doctorate in forest pathology. This lead to a successful career, first in research and then in management, culminating with his appointment as Director General of the Canadian Forest Service. Throughout his career in the Public Service Bob was a gentleman and a gentle man. He listened as well as he spoke and he understood and demonstrated the importance of consensus building. Beyond his career Bob was an accomplished woodworker and handyman. There was nothing that he could not fix - as long as it did not have a spring. He loved to be outdoors, sailing in the summer on Black Lake and downhill skiing in the winter which he did into his late 70's. These activities were most enjoyed with his family - children and grandchildren. In addition to physical pursuits, Bob was an avid reader and student of history and passed his love of music, ideas and words on to his children and grandchildren. He loved to travel and was one of the first Canadian travellers to communist China and the Soviet Union. He may have had a lifetime membership in Where to Eat in Canada and he could always be counted on to find a very good restaurant. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend and he will be missed by all of us who loved him very much. Friends may visit at the Garden Chapel of Tubman Funeral Homes, 3440 Richmond Road (between Baseline Rd. and Bayshore Dr.) on Thursday, September 25, 2014 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Memorial Service will be held in the chapel on Friday, September 26, at 1p.m, followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Parkinson Research Consortium, c/o University of Ottawa, Roger Guindon Hall, Faculty of Medicine, 351 OD-451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5.