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ROB PETTIT
He will be lovingly remembered by his wife Linda; son James (Miriam McNamara) and Autumn and Stevie; daughter Roberta (Sean Moore) and Jane and Archie; sister Margaret Newman (Ken) and sister-in-law Leslie Wilson, and their families; and dog Becky. He was predeceased by his brother-in-law Don Wilson.
Rob was born in 1942 in London, England to parents, Bill and Betty, and sister Margaret. They immigrated to Canada when he was five, settling in Burlington, Ontario. He came to Winnipeg to attend university and met Linda. When Rob smiled his whole face lit up, and she couldn't resist. They married in 1968.
Living first in Stonewall then Winnipeg and Edmonton, he and Linda had an active life, riding their tandem bicycle, canoeing, skiing and playing squash. After Jamie and Roberta were born the family settled back in Winnipeg, where Rob began a satisfying 25-year career with MTS in Information Technology. Most days he went for a run either to work or around Westwood. He was active in coaching and organizing youth soccer, hockey and lacrosse. Each Spring break the family piled into the station wagon for a ski trip to Banff.
Rob and Linda continued to make wonderful memories travelling the world, often with the kids, Leslie or friends. Yet paradise for Rob was still the Lake of the Woods, paddling his canoe or relaxing on the cottage deck.
Whenever "Pa" was with the grandchildren - especially for pool fun - it was a great day. With friends, he was always up for a stimulating conversation or political debate. He loved his weekly coffee group and the Dinner Club, although he never did any of the cooking! He enjoyed and supported theatre, music, and sports at all levels.
Rob was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2016. For someone who was hardly sick a day in his life and had a healthy lifestyle, the changes were a huge blow. Nevertheless, he kept his sunny smile.
Rob's life was happy and full. He drank plenty of cappuccino and ate his share of apple pie. Bucket list destinations were all visited. He cherished his family ... even when they groaned at the dad jokes that he thought were hilarious.
The family thanks the staff at Golden West Centennial Lodge for their gentle care. Special thanks to nurse Wendy Southall for her professionalism and compassion.
A Celebration of Life has been held for close family.
If desired, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 06, 2021
Condolences & Memories (6 entries)
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We are so saddened to hear of Rob’s death. Our enduring remembrances of him are being full of life in every respect – physically active, with just as lively a sense of humour and interest in public affairs. What fond memories we have of our time in Wildwood in the ‘70’s – before kids! You guys were always an inspiration to us. We so admire your strength and the support of your family through the journey with Rob. Janet and Grant Gibson, Saskatoon “And when the work of grieving is done, The wound of loss will heal And you will have learned To wean your eyes From that gap in the air And be able to enter the hearth In your soul where your loved one Has awaited your return All the time.” ― John O'Donohue, To Bless the Space Between Us: A Book of Blessings - Posted by: Janet and Grant Gibson, Saskatoon (Friends) on: Feb 12, 2021
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My sincerely condolences to the entire Pettit family. I was fortunate enough to have worked directly for Rob in my early years at MTS. Rob epitomized class. He was intelligent, gracious, welcoming, understanding and devoted to his role and more importantly to the people around him. He was truly a gentle man, friend and a great mentor. A wonderful man and he will be deeply missed by those who knew him. Rest in peace my friend. - Posted by: Neil Thomson (Friend and co-worker) on: Feb 08, 2021
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My sincere condolences to Linda and the rest of the Pettit family. I worked for Rob in the Information Centre at MTS. He was a great person and great boss. His smile was infectious around the workplace. - Posted by: Dennis Yanchycki (Co-worker) on: Feb 06, 2021
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So sorry to hear of Rob’s passing, my deepest condolences to his family. Rob was one of my managers at MTS, and in my long career there, I can definitely say he was my best manager. We had many laughs on many, many days sitting in our offices. He was always very supportive and encouraging in my career advancements. With Rob, I always knew he had my back and I greatly respected him for that. I will always remember his smile and great laugh!! Rest In Peace Rob. ❤️ - Posted by: Kim Middlestead (Friend/Co-Worker) on: Feb 06, 2021
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My sincere condolences to the Pettit family. I worked with Rob for many years at MTS and had a great respect for him. Hi sense of humour and mentorship will always be remembered. - Posted by: Linda Sinclair (Friend) on: Feb 06, 2021
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I knew Rob at MTS through several projects over the years. Such a lovely man. When my dad was in Victoria Hospital, before he passed, I had the opportunity to have a few conversations with Rob as they were in the same floor. He would drop my dad’s room every few days and sit down and tell us a story. My condolences to his family and friends. - Posted by: Marie Gregorashuk (Former coworker ) on: Feb 06, 2021