ROBERT LABOSSIERE

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ROBERT LABOSSIERE Born in St. Boniface, MB on November 19, 1951, Bob immigrated to Vancouver in 1970 where he met his forever soulmate Michelle. Married in 1973, they moved to Armstrong, BC where they welcomed their daughter Vanessa into the world. Bob and family returned to his Winnipeg roots in 1985, then returning to the West Coast in 1995 they eventually settled on Vancouver Island. Bob earned his Red Seal Automotive and HVAC tickets. He owned an HVAC service business in Winnipeg, but hung up his tools for several years working for HVAC supply companies on the West Coast before picking the tool belt once again in 2004. He liked to solve technical problems and enjoyed working for P H Plumbing and their customers in Qualicum Beach. He was diagnosed with liver cancer on September 19, 2007 and died January 19, 2008 with family by his side. He is survived by his wife Michelle, daughter Vanessa (Chris), father Andre, sisters, Collette (Mike), Norma (David), Lynne (Paul), Joanne (Mario), Yvette; brothers, Dan (Georgette), Marc, Pierre (Christine). In-laws Joanne (Sveinn), Bill (Jeannie), as well as many nieces and nephews and their children. Predeceased by his mother Gail, parents-in-law Hec and Kay LaCoste and special friend/mom Kay Luty. Bob had many interests in his life: camping, photography, archery, music, motorcycles, renovating and salmon fishing, but being with his family was the most important. He will be remembered as a talented tradesman who was always willing to lend a hand. LYNYRD SKYNYRD - FREEBIRD If I leave here tomorrow Would you still remember me? For I must be travelling on, now, 'Cause there's too many places I've got to see. But, if I stayed here with you, girl, Things just could't be the same. 'Cause I'm as free as a bird now, And this bird you can not change. Lord knows, I can't change. Bye, bye, it's been a sweet love. Though this feeling I can't change. But please don't take it badly, 'Cause Lord knows I'm to blame. But, if I stayed here with you girl, Things just could't be the same. 'Cause I'm as free as a bird now, And this bird you'll never change. And this bird you can not change. Lord knows, I can't change. Lord help me, I can't change. A family gathering was held on January 21, 2008 in Qualicum Beach. At Bob's request we played the song Freebird as we raised our glasses in a toast to him. By special arrangement, his ashes will be carried aboard a Naval ship for a sea burial, the location to be announced. His ashes will also be scattered this summer in the Pacific Ocean off northern Vancouver Island near his favorite fishing spot. Wishing you a good ride as you tour Valhalla on your motorcycle. Donations can be made to St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation, 2137 Comox Avenue, Comox, BC V9M 1P2 Attn: Palliative Unit.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 26, 2008