In Loving Memory of Bob (Butts) McPherson
With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Bob McPherson, who passed away surrounded by his family. Bob lived a life of love, dedication, and service to both his family and his profession, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, and cherished memories.
Bob is survived by his devoted wife of over 58 years, Lynne, who was his lifelong companion and steadfast partner. Together, they raised three wonderful children: his son Jamie (Linda), and daughters Shauna Huffman and Laurie (Graham) Seto. His nine treasured grandchildren—Bridget and Robbie McPherson; Courtney, TJ, and Caitlyn Huffman; and Elias, Jalen, Rylan, and Aricin Seto—were a constant source of pride and joy in his life.
Bob was predeceased by his brothers Jay and Larry, and his sister-in-law Bonnie McPherson. He is lovingly remembered by his brother David McPherson of Duncan, his sister-in-law Marie McPherson of Chilliwack, and his brothers-in-law Rodney Fields and Brent (Kathy) Fields of Victoria, as well as his many nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Born in Fairfield, Victoria, Bob was the youngest of four boys and developed a passion for sports, especially baseball. His love for the game carried through into his later years as he coached not only his children but also his grandchildren. Cheering them on in their many activities brought Bob immense joy throughout his life. Bob’s passion and commitment to baseball spanned many years, during which he volunteered countless hours as a coach and took on various roles to support the sport’s growth and development. He coached at Beacon Hill Little League, Carnarvon Park Pony Colt Leagues, Henderson Park Senior Babe Ruth League, and later, for one season, at National Little League, where he co-coached with his daughter Shauna. Additionally, Bob served as a director for many years with Victoria District Baseball. Beyond baseball, Bob had a love for curling, which began in his school days and continued into adulthood as a long-time member of the Victoria Curling Club. Throughout his life, Bob formed many friendships, which he cherished.
A proud 58-year member of UA Local 324, Bob worked on countless projects over the years, contributing his expertise to a variety of job sites. His career took him from the “Uptown” commercial and institutional sectors, to the shipyards and even the oil fields of Northern Alberta. Bob also spent time instructing future tradespeople at Camosun College. He worked for 23 years at the Royal Jubilee Hospital, where he first retired on May 29, 2003, but his love for teaching brought him back to the classroom multiple times, including a special co-teaching experience with his son Jamie where they taught an entire double level 2 Plumbing class —a moment that was deeply meaningful for them both.
During his long and dedicated membership with UA Local 324, Bob held numerous leadership roles. He served as Vice President, Treasurer, Pension Health & Wellness and a member of the Joint Training Committee, as well as an instructor and a valued participant on multiple other committees. His commitment to his trade and his union reflected his character—steadfast, generous, and always willing to lend a hand.
Bob’s warmth, sense of humor, and devotion to his family and community will be profoundly missed. His legacy lives on through his children, grandchildren, and the many people whose lives he touched throughout his long career.
Rest in peace. Your love, guidance, and contributions will forever be remembered.
A celebration of life will be held to honor Bob’s life Friday, September 27, 2024, at 2:00 pm, in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice in his memory.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
-
Ivan Crossett
I had the very good fortune of working with Bob starting in 1969 and considered him a very good friend even though we only met a few times over the last twenty years. Before that he was my right-hand man in managing local 324 affairs. Lynne and Bob were always there organizing the social events put on by the union. He will be missed by many.