RAAPPANA, Robert (Bob) John passed peacefully on March 20th, 2008 after a lengthy and courageous battle with cancer. Born September 11, 1954 in Ladysmith, BC he celebrated a 32 year career with the Victoria City Police. Predeceased by parents Paavo & Phyllis, Bob leaves behind and will be deeply missed by his loving partner Laura Hayton, daughters Jennifer (Guy) and Sarah; his Japanese daughter Momoko (Tony) and their son Ryuku; Laura’s children Kirk and Sharlene Bittman (Alex) and twin grandbabies Liam & Simone. Bob is also survived by his brother Bill, sisters Pirkko-Liisa Rogers (Ron), Kristina, Liisa Wilder (Graham), Miriam; nephew and nieces Matthew Davis, Deneige Davis, Cathy Roberts & Nicole Hilborn, together with many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and colleagues scattered across the country. Bob will be remembered for his great sense of humor, positive outlook and well known dignified style in his courageous struggle as he battled his illness. May he be surrounded by love and light on his new journey.
Bob has dedicated time not only to his family but was an active member and treasured his 13 years with Cops for Cancer Tour de Rock; was Vice-President of Ladysmith Kinsmen, as well he served tirelessly on committees for Ladysmith Celebration Days; Ladysmith Parks & Recreation; Langford Parks & Recreation; CRD Advisory Group; Triangle Little League, and the Victoria City Police Revolver Club (VCPRC). Bob also gave many years to the Historical Society Police Museum in Victoria and especially the “Car 21” paddy wagon restoration project, and was recently honoured with the very first 150th anniversary medal for policing.
On behalf of Bob, the family gratefully thanks Dr. Steve Keeler & Dr. Brian Weinerman for their friendship and care over the years together with the doctors and nursing staff at the Richmond Pavilion of Royal Jubilee, BC Cancer Agency, as well as the BC Cancer Lodge.
A Celebration of Bob’s Life will be held on Thursday, April 3rd, 2008 @ 2:00 pm at the Bethel Tabernacle Pentecostal Church, 1149 – 4th Avenue, Ladysmith, BC. Rev. Robert L. Bedard officiating.
In lieu of flowers donations in memory of Bob gratefully accepted to Cops for Cancer Society Tour de Rock (Ladysmith) @ www.cancer.ca/copsforcancerbc
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