With deep sadness we announce the passing of Robert 'Bob' Harvey Collins, who died peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at the age of 77. Born in London, Ontario on February 17, 1947, Bob was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
Bob is survived by his wife, Rita Bell Valiquette Collins who loved him for close to four decades. He will be dearly missed by his children: Renee (Murray St. Ange) Valiquette, Daniel (Danielle) Valiquette, Yvonne (Don Harrison) Valiquette, and Tammy (Dave) Nankivell. He was a loving grandfather to Dominique and Matthew Hunt; Celine and Patrice Langelier; Martin and Ashley Valiquette; Braden, Kieran, and Dylan Harrison; Cory Turcotte; Moses and Cristina Peruzza; Adam and Kira Nankivell; Jordan Lyn (Ty); and Devon (Bree) Bringleson. Bob also loved his great-grandchildren: Skyler, Charlie, Wesley, Annie, Valerie, Emilie, Felix, Karina, Lorenzo, Eleanor, Cadence and Callahan. He is also survived by his sister Joan Bunko and is predeceased by his brother Jim Collins.
Bob spent his early career with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. He was also a dedicated member of the St. Mary's River Bi-National Public Advisory Committee. In this role, he was instrumental in developing a remedial action plan to restore the River's health. A true entrepreneur, Bob founded and operated Sault and District Personnel Services until his retirement. His true passion was the outdoors and Bob's love for the outdoors was a gift he shared with us all. He created lasting memories through family cross-country ski trips, ATV and snowmobile rides, and canoeing adventures. Many of his grandchildren experienced their first driving lessons – whether on an ATV, snowmobile, or pickup truck – thanks to Grandpa Bob. The family gatherings at Desbarats Lake, in both winter and summer, enriched the lives of so many. Grandchildren spent weeks of their summers there, discovering the pleasures of hiking, rock climbing, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Most importantly, they learned the meaning of love through his example.
Over the years Bob pursued many passions, and he could entertain you for hours, telling you stories of his adventures. A pigeon racer he sent his homing pigeons across the country as far away as James Bay, amazing us when they returned to their coop. He bred and raised field trial and show dogs. His pride and joy was his Golden Retriever, Champion Skylon Dakota CDX, WDX, who was the number 4 top show dog in Canada in 1983. As president of The Friends of The St. Mary River, an organization created to reconnect the community with the revitalized St. Mary’s River, he hosted a 22 km canoe race and poker run from Bellevue Park to Echo Bay. Bob was also the chairman of the Algoma ATV Tourist Association, organizing trail rides through the backcountry of Algoma.. Most recently, he could be found down at the barn raising orphaned cattle - fed by bottle, and breeding pigs, sheep, ducks, and chickens. Bob touched so many people's lives and he will be greatly missed.
A private service will be held by the close family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Diabetes Canada (payable online or by cheque) or the charity of your choice.
Visit www.osullivanfuneralhome.com to leave condolences for the family. Arrangements entrusted to O’Sullivan Funeral Home (215 St. James St., Sault Ste. Marie, ON, P6A 1P7, 705-759-8456).