Obituary of Robert Cleveland

CLEVELAND, Robert “Bob” Ivan; It is with heart-felt sadness that we announce the passing of Bob Cleveland of Cedar Springs, born June 1st, 1932, son of Carl and Erie (Story) Cleveland. Bob passed away peacefully on April 17th, 2011, at Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, surrounded by his loving family. Beloved husband and best friend of Ruth (Morris) Cleveland; cherished father and father-in-law of Wendy (Cleveland) and Paul Van Torre of Cedar Springs, Gary Cleveland and wife Maheen Saeed of Ottawa, and Blair Cleveland of Guelph; doting grandpa of Amy Van Torre of Ottawa, and Kevin Van Torre of Windsor; much loved brother and brother-in-law of Louise (Cleveland) Weekes, Marie (Cleveland) and Ray Goodwin all of London, Sherman Cleveland (predeceased 1949), William and Lynn Morris of Comber; fun loving Uncle Bob to many nieces, nephews, and special cousins. Bob and Ruth shared a long and happy life together, working side-by-side on their Cedar Springs farm and, later, together in their gravel business. Bob was an innovative farmer and businessman, known for his good stewardship of the land, having, for example, planted thousands of trees in his lifetime. Many years of hard work were rewarded with world-wide travels and adventures in over 100 countries, where many happy memories and new friends were made. After fifty-six years of marriage, Bob and Ruth’s love for each other deepened with each passing season; they still affectionately held hands, they laughed and lovingly teased each other; they marvelled at their luck to be together. Their children feel blessed at having had such a generous, fair, and loving father, whose greatest joy was his family. In the latter part of his life, he overcame many health struggles with optimism and determination. This decent, charming, and passionate man will be greatly missed by all who loved him. Visitation will be held at the McKinlay Funeral Home, 141 Park Street, Blenheim, on Friday from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 7:00-9:00 p.m. A celebration of Bob’s life will take place at the Funeral Home on Saturday, April 23, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. Inurnment to follow at Craford Cemetery, Craford Road, west of Cedar Springs. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association, the Salvation Army or the Cedar Springs United Church. The family invites you to share your memories at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com. McKinlay Funeral Home, 141 Park Street, Blenheim, Ontario 519-676-3451