Robert Syrnyk

(Julian) Robert Syrnyk, age 84, went to his heavenly home on December 9, 2021 after a brief illness, with his family by his side.  He was a beloved husband, father and grandfather; a respected teacher and a devoted Christian.

Born March 1937 in Porcupine Plains, Saskatchewan, Bob grew up in Gilbert Plains, Manitoba. After graduating with a BSc from the University of Saskatchewan, he became a teacher and found his way to Kenora, Ontario where he became one of the original teachers at Beaver Brae Secondary School. It was there that he dedicated 33 years to cultivating in his students a desire to learn and love Math. During his early days in Kenora, Bob met another young teacher, Patricia Gaudet who had moved to Kenora from PEI with her sisters.  Patricia became the love of his life and they were married for 54 years.

Bob had many interests and talents.  A skilled carpenter, he built his own house and cottage. Remarkable attention to detail was demonstrated in all of his projects through exceptional quality of workmanship and details like custom built-ins and handmade components. He was also recognized within the family to be able to fix practically anything and rarely met a challenge that he couldn’t conquer by some method.  Music was also an important part of his life and the trumpet was his favourite instrument. He enjoyed many years playing in the church.  A love of calligraphy, drawing and art led him to create many logos for events and organizations.  His penmanship was so beautiful that fellow staff members would comment that it was hard to erase his assignments off the blackboard.

Bob had a strong faith in God and enjoyed sharing it with others. An active member of Calvary Church in Kenora and The Gideons, he developed many strong friendships with those in his faith community over the years.

Dedication to family was evident throughout Bob’s life.   After retirement, he and Pat moved to Ottawa to be near their children. Many hours were spent with his grandchildren, being involved in their lives and watching them grow up.  Numerous family gatherings over the years will now be precious memories to hold dear.

Bob was a cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews. Whether it be a quick phone call or longer visit he appreciated keeping in touch. A true gentleman, with a kind heart, Bob was generous and helpful.  He was a fountain of knowledge, loved to talk and was genuinely interested in others.

Bob will be dearly missed by his wife Patricia and his children Roberta Barrette (Joël), Cindy Sass (Jason), and Patrick Sirnik (Kathryn) as well as his grandchildren Shea, Isabelle, Kiley, Samuel and Audrey, all of Stittsville, Ontario. Bob also leaves to mourn his sister Sylvia Nykolaishen of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan and was predeceased by his sisters Diane McInnes, Adeline Dudar and his brother Sylvester Syrnick.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, March 24, 2022 at the Garden Chapel of Tubman Funeral Homes in Ottawa at 11:30 a.m.   In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to ShareWord Global or Global Impact Venture Experience.

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