With great sadness we share the news that our ‘darling Bobby’ passed away peacefully August 17, 2023 after a long illness. He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, MaryAnn. Brothers: Eric(Sue), Richard(Kandas) and Andrew(Debbie), as well as sister-in-law Debbie Wesley. Plus many nieces and nephews.
Born in Langford on June 12, 1951, Bob was the second oldest son of Geoff and Jans Bullen. At 18 years old Bob joined the RCN and trained as a Hull Technician. A few years in, Bob was introduced to MaryAnn and soon they became lifelong partners, marrying and setting up house in Saanich before purchasing their forever home in Colwood.
Bob spent several years shipboard on a number of vessels including, the MacKenzie, the Protector and the Provider before becoming an instructor at CFB Esquimalt and reaching the rank of Chief Petty Officer. After 35 years of service, Bob retired from the Navy and took a civilian job at Dockyard working on the submarine program.
Bob enjoyed fishing with family and friends. He and MaryAnn shared a love for travel and camping, which included cruises through the Caribbean and RV’ing in their 5th wheel to places such as Banff and Jasper. Bob was an active church member. He was well respected by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Bob had a great sense of humour and an unforgettable, infectious laugh.
Bob will be missed dearly, but never forgotten. The special bond he and MaryAnn shared was incredible and was so evident, as MaryAnn remained by his side during his passing.
The family wishes to thank all of their friends for their support and are forever grateful to the doctors, nurses and staff of the Victoria General Hospital for the love and care they provided to Bob.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Colwood Pentecostal Church on Saturday, September 23, 2023 at 1:00 pm.
Colwood Pentecostal Church
2250 Sooke Rd
Victoria, B.C.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Sande Dhillon
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Hans and Jopie Euwe Dear MaryAnn,
Our condolences with the decease of your dear Bob, our cousin. We are happy that we once met him (after years of stories about the Bullen Boys) and we are sorry that this did not happen more often, because of this big ocean between us. We remember Bob as a very kind and modest person and you both as a happy couple. We wish you all the best, MaryAnn, and we hope that the memories of the beautiful years together give you strength. Love, Hans, Jopie and Quirien Euwe.
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Judy hodges MayAnn, so sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. He was such a gentle soul. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. Judy and Bill
MaryAnn~
We are so sorry to hear about Bob’s passing
Such a happy person and loving husband.
He had a beautiful smile and infectious laugh
Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time
Sande and Dale Dhillon