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A Royal Canadian Navy Historical Project
In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
HESSON, Robert Edward(Bob) - 85, passed away peacefully Sunday, August 28, 2016 in Halifax, NS with his loving daughter Heather by his side after a brief illness. Robert (Bob) was born in Stratford Ontario 1930. He was the eldest in a family of four. Predeceased by mother Gertrude (Henderson), father Robert and brother Donald. Survived by wife (60 years November 2016) Audrey (nee Dear), sisters Thelma ( Port Huron , Michigan), Margaret Sambell, London, ON (Bernie Sambell). Three daughters: Heather (friend Brenda Laing), Vancouver BC, Clara (Vancouver, BC) Katherine (Hesson-Bolton, Dundas, ON): granddaughter Cassandra Bagnell (BC) and grandson Leo Hesson Bolton (ON ), sister-in-law Suzanne (Gatineau, QC) niece Cendrine (Chris Crossman, children Caleb and Cedric ) and nephew Dimitri (Ottawa, ON). Bob was well known in sport circles in Ontario and Halifax especially his earlier career in boxing. He left Stratford to join the Royal Canadian Navy and during his naval career pursued professional boxing while stationed in Halifax. Numerous championships are on his record; Canadian Light Heavyweight and Maritime Heavyweight. Bob and Audrey made Dartmouth their home. He was always active in community activities Junior Chamber of Commerce, Big Brothers, Dartmouth Dolphins, YMCA and the Royal Canadian Legion. In his retirement years he enjoyed the fellowship of other Black Service Veterans. A Life member of the Royal Canadian Legion he held the highest awards: Meritorious Service Medal and Palm Leaf to the MSM. After many years of service in various offices he became President of Centennial Branch 160. Bob was a long standing member of the Chiefs & Pos Assoc. and the Naval Divers Assoc. (Atlantic). After his retirement from his military career of over 30 years Bob pursued a second career as a social worker. He retired as Counsellor Supervisor of DASC Industries where he focused on programs for adults with mental/physical challenges. Bob was always known for his willingness to help others and will be remembered fondly as “a gentleman”. The family would like to thank the staff of the Abbie J Lane Memorial, Geriatric Unit for their devoted care during his illness. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the hospital or one of Bob's charities; Heart & Stroke or the Cancer Society. The cremation service has taken place at the Atlantic Funeral Homes by Arbor Memorial. The family will announce a memorial service to be conducted at the Royal Canadian Legion Centennial Branch 160 at a later date.
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For Posterity's Sake 
