Bob and I first met over 50 years ago when we all lived in Dorval. I suppose it was our wives who were responsible for our getting together and we are indebted to them. We stayed in regular contact until I departed for the US in 1974, but I have to say that over the years Bob has always made the effort to stay in touch on a regular basis. Jane and I travel to Montreal most years for a quick visit and hope to come later this year, circumstances permitting. He is after all our oldest Canadian friend.
I am somewhat hesitant to pen my thoughts since there are so many others who know him much better than me, but here goes.
Bob as you all know is deeply involved in personal relationships to an extraordinary degree and we have had many stimulating conversations over the years as we have both negotiated the rapids of our lives (nuff said!). He is a sympathetic confidante always willing to talk through problems.
His unfailing sense of humour and general disposition is inspirational and even as we discussed some of the stressful situations in his business there was always a creative spark at work. I do remember being on the phone with him years ago and in the background, there was the rustling of paper which he finally explained by saying he was trolling for prospective clients in the newspaper while talking to me. Definitely a multi-tasker.
Jane and I visited a local arena once to see Bob play hockey but as we arrived, he was being assisted off the ice having had a puck hit him in the mouth, I think. So, we never saw his prowess on the ice, but we are told it was pretty good.
Of course, Bob is the photographer of record par excellence so it would be presumptuous for me to add any others that I might have.
I do recall back in 1986 being treated by Bob to a vacation in the Caymans at his condo. It was a wonderful trip and particularly remember lounging in the hammocks supping drinks and watching the sun go down – quite magical.
Bob is always generous with his time and is interested in family news and concerned to help if needed. He really does take the long view in relationships and I have immense respect for how he cared for employees during the changes in his business and also towards his sisters as they aged.
So, in conclusion, and as an old codger,
I would say to Bob “Welcome to the 80’s – it’s not so bad”
Bruce