HAMLYN, Robert John Hamlyn

A man who loved and was loved by many, Bob (or Buzz to his friends) lived life with passion for every part of it. Bob taught English for 30+ years, toured with bands across North America, played hockey practically every week, and cared deeply for his family and friends along the way. He was someone who could quote Shakespeare one moment, play you a Jimi Hendrix song the next, and find time for a quick 9 at the golf course in between.

Bob is survived by his wife, Jayne, and their daughters, Taylor (Sal), and Rachel (Ryan), and their grandchildren; his sister, Vicky (Farhad), his brother, Mark (Maureen), his nephews, Alexander and Tyler, his niece, Jennifer; and his former partner, Carol. They all miss Bob dearly and really hope that anyone who knew him will remember him well, and take inspiration from the wit, verve, and vitality with which he lived every single day.

The first son of John and Stella, Bob was born in England then travelled with them across the ocean to Canada. A music lover from an early age, he took up the guitar as a teenager, showed a natural ability to excel in it, and played all his life, performing countless shows over five decades as a gifted musician. Eventually, he found a path balancing artistic pursuits and a career as a secondary school teacher—where he became a favourite of many students. When his siblings started their families, Bob became a devoted and very loving uncle to his niece and nephews.

For over 25 years, Bob and Mark enjoyed every minute at their beloved Haliburton cottage. It was a great escape for Bob to get up to nature to relax and enjoy the seasons, the lake, the boat, and bonfires—sharing it all with family and friends.

Later in life, Bob found a new role as a loving husband to Jayne, and father to her daughters, Taylor and Rachel. They formed a close bond with him over the last quarter century and Bob was thrilled to become a grandfather. His last years were spent showering them with care and affection, playing his guitar for the kids while he watched them grow.

“He was a man, take him for all in all, I shall not look upon his like again.”
– Hamlet, William Shakespeare