Robert Joseph Stan Freeland of Havelock, ON passed away peacefully in his 58th year of life at The Bridge Hospice with his family by his side. Robert had been diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma cancer in late July 2021 and began immunotherapy in early September. Robert remained extraordinarily positive throughout his treatment with the singular goal of having as much time as possible with his family.
The immunotherapy was successful in slowing the progression however, there were cancerous lesions in the brain which necessitated neurosurgery on two occasions. After each operation, Robert was left with the task of re-learning how to walk and speak. With his family by his side, Robert felt any obstacle could be overcome. Robert had a list of goals he wished to achieve with his remaining time and he steadily worked toward them all despite his disease. With his family, he was able to go camping in backcountry Algonquin and on a skating trip to Huntsville. He attended his long-awaited graduation ceremony from IT Carlow earning his Bachelor of Art (Honours) in Youth and Community Work on March 26th and held his first granddaughter on March 29th. Robert celebrated his 35th wedding anniversary with many friends and family in attendance on June 18th. A few days later, Robert suffered a debilitating stroke and was moved into hospice care for his remaining time.
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Robert is loved and greatly missed by his wife Corlea of Havelock and children Cassnae (Cory) of Port Hope , Mary of Havelock, Jaidonn (Rachel) of Ottawa, Gaerrisen of Kitchener, Alex of Brighton and Addisiane (Hannah) of Halifax. He is beloved by his extended family of many foster and adopted children, nieces, nephews, and children-in-law.
Cherished “Bub-bub” to James and Aaron, and “Poppy” to Phaidra.
Robert is survived by his siblings Yvonne Grillo (Joe) of Georgetown, and Jim Freeland of Toronto. Predeceased by his parents Bob and Elizabeth Freeland.
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Robert was a kind-hearted, loving, and devoted father who could always be found with a smile on his face. He was a God-fearing man and cultivated a deep faith in Christ.
Robert poured himself into the lives of his large extended family and community. He worked as a dedicated social worker for over 40 years and foster parent for 35+ years. Robert was a professor at Trillium College in the Developmental Service Worker program. He donated his time and skills as a local youth soccer and hockey coach for many years. His other volunteer endeavours included Scouts, Brownies, and Special Olympics in Ontario and Ireland.
Robert will be remembered fondly by the many whose lives have been touched by his warmth, generosity, and fun-loving spirit.
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Aquamation has taken place and burial will follow.
A celebration of Robert’s life will be held on Friday, July 8th from 6:30- 9:30 p.m. at the Havelock Lion’s Club.
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Wednesday June 29th 2022
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Robert Freeland Wednesday June 29th 2022..
Décès pour la Ville:Peterborough, Province: Ontario