Robert (Bob) was born in 1944 in Lacombe Alberta to Jake and Annie Bos. Bob was the oldest of 9 children. As a little boy he always had an interest in machinery and how things worked. At the age of three his inquisitiveness resulted in the loss of his pinky on his right hand as he played with the gears in his dad’s shop. This did not deter him though as by the age of 12 he had already taken apart a car motor and put it back together. This began a lifelong love for fixing things. As a teen Bob worked for Abe Konrad at Modern Building Supplies driving delivery truck which began a lifelong friendship with Abe.
In 1965 Bob met his sweetheart Diane at Fraser Way Drive In. She said she thought he was either very interested or really thirsty. He came back 3 times the same day and each time with a different brother for approval! Thus, began their loving relationship. They were married on April 25 of 1967 and had three children, Renee, Steven and Kevin.
Bob also worked as a mechanic at Hub Motors for Jake and Marilyn Siemens for 15 years and loved it! Then, went on into construction for the last 36 years with a focus on commercial and built many Esso gas stations. Very appropriate for him, considering his passion for mechanics and cars.
He was very happy to be involved with Bob King in organizing the Abbotsford Car Show and looked forward to it every year!
He was the President of the Abbotsford Downtown Business Association from 1999 til 2010. He was awarded the Order of Abbotsford, for his involvement in and passion for revitalizing the downtown. He inspired many as he began the revitalization when Abbotsford downtown was at its lowest and by others was told it was hopeless. Together with his son Steven and his wife Karen they designed and built beautiful buildings on Montrose Avenue that have even been featured in Hallmark Christmas movies.
Bob has been a faithful member of Bakerview church for 52 years. He served on the Board of Maintenance, the Board of Finance and was an usher for the 52 years he attended. Whenever things needed repair at the church, he would handle it and get it done.
Bob had a heart for serving and was a gifted helper, whether in church or his community. He always had time for people and was never in a hurry. He would do anything for you and had a special place in his heart for the underdog.
He enjoyed the simple things in life. Whether it was just tinkering on his car or enjoying a warm day on the deck with a newspaper or a good book. Or even better a trip with the trailer to Osoyoos with who he called his (little wifey). He always loved road trips.
He absolutely adored his children and grandchildren and would do anything for them. From repairing-or building small things to helping rebuild his grandson’s Jeep he was always available and there with a helping hand. One of his favorite sayings mostly heard by the family was ‘it’s got to be done’ He never thought anything was too difficult or impossible and you would never hear him complain.
He was a devoted man of strong faith who believed in the power and strength of Jesus Christ’s love and had hope in the joy that awaited him after his passing.
Hubby, Dad and Grandpa, you are adored and precious to us. You are loved and will be so dearly missed and there is a hole that won’t be filled until we meet again.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Robert Bob Bos December 6th 2018..
Source: myalternatives_abbotsford
Death notice for the town of: Aldergrove, Province: Colombie britanique
The comment about Bob “helping the underdog” resonated with me as he helped a friend of mine who was very down on his luck. He helped him get his life back on track and I know that my friend held him in the highest regard. My sympathies to the family for your sad parting. However, you will meet again and in the meantime I am sure that Bob will watch over you all.
Dianne and Family
We are so very sorry to hear about Bob’s passing………he fought a valiant fight!
It is never easy to lose someone we love, but his memory will live on, in your minds and hearts. His kindness, generosity, and love for all will always be remembered by all who knew him. Now he is painless and whole again in the arms of Jesus. Praise the Lord.
With our deepest sympathy, love and hugs,
Bill & Lorie and family
Our Love and thoughts remain with you Diane and family… and we continue to uphold you in prayer!
We know that God’s peace and comfort shall enfold you!
Love you dearly
Paul and Mikki Engelman
Knew Bob through many years within the Construction industry within the Abbotsford area. Pleasure working with Bob and he will be dearly missed by all of those that knew him. Prayers to brothers Chuck and Sid as I have worked with them the most.