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THE REVEREND ROBERT WILLIAM ENGLISH (BOB)
Born: Oct 23, 1932
Date of Passing: May 04, 2021
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THE REVEREND ROBERT WILLIAM
ENGLISH
Bob was born on the family farm near Bradwardine, MB to Fred and Bessie English on October 23, 1932. His only sibling, Clair, was born several years later. After high school, Bob went to St. John's College, Winnipeg to study Theology. In 1956, he married his longtime sweetheart, Victoria Wiens. In 1959, he was ordained an Anglican deacon and in 1960, a priest in Brandon, MB. His first parish was a rural four-point assignment encompassing Holland, Cypress River, Glenboro and Stockton, MB. Following that he served at the Winnipeg parishes of St. Aidan's, St. Thomas', Church of the Good Shepherd, and St. Barnabas'. He retired from active ministry April 2001 and became honorary assistant at St. Mary Magdalene. He was affectionately known to many of his parishioners as "Father Bob".
Bob valued education. He received a Master of Divinity 1985 and a Master of Sacred Theology 1994. He followed his passion for counselling and trained as a certified family counsellor while shepherding his parish and raising his family. He continued counselling into his retirement.
Bob will be forever cherished and missed by his wife Victoria; daughters, Sandra, Teresa and Barbara and son-in-law Kevin; grandchildren, Erin Rose, Luke, Katie (Dan), Tyler (Katherine), Robby (Jenn), Molly (Oliver), and Hayley; and great-grandchildren, Levi, Ronan and Clayton; his brother Clair and sister-in-law Beth; extended family and friends.
Bob was a kind and gentle soul with a wonderful sense of humour, a hearty laugh, a love for horses, visiting and fresh coffee.
He deeply touched the lives of so many people who will never forget him.
Bob was laid to rest on May 10, 2021 with a family funeral Eucharist at St. Matthew's Cathedral, Brandon and interment in Ancrum Cemetery, Bradwardine, MB. A celebration to honour Bob's life will be held at a future date.
In Bob's memory, donations may be made to St. John's College, University of Manitoba, 92 Dysart Road, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2M5.
NEIL BARDAL
FUNERAL CENTRE
204-949-2200
neilbardalinc.com
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 15, 2021
Condolences & Memories (8 entries)
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My thoughts and prayers are with you Vickie and family during this trying time. May God Bless you all. - Posted by: Peggy Berriault (former co-worker) on: May 20, 2021
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Vicki, I am so sorry to hear of this loss for you and your family. My memories of Bob always made me smile. He had such a beautiful tone to his voice. His readings often made you think deeper into the words, even if you'd seen them a hundred times. All the best to you and your wonderful family, who I met when we were fighting the flood of '97. You're in good hands with them. Stay safe. - Posted by: Rick Yackel (Friend) on: May 16, 2021
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Vicky & FamilY: Our deepest sympathies to YOU All at this very sad a time. The obit Says it well. He is especially remembered to us as Father Bob married us. But, besides that, He Became a Special Friend to us. We visited from time to time, even when we moved to Alberta......we returned with a call or visit. He celebrated Don’s 80th Birthday with us 5 years ago. (Five years ago tomorrow) He will be truly missed. We have Many Fond / Fun Memories of our time at St. Barnabas. And will definitely cherish those memories Forever! As I am sure that speaks to all who attended that Parish. God’s Blessings to You all!!!! He is now with The Father and at rest. Our Condolences Ethel & Don - Posted by: Ethel & Don McCully (Friend) on: May 16, 2021
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My sincere condolences to Vicky and family on the loss of your husband, father and grandfather. I remember Bob for his sense of humour, his genuine interest in people and his attentiveness when talking with you. - Posted by: Eleanore Verplaetse (Former co-worker of Vicky) on: May 16, 2021
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My deepest sympathy to Vickie and family. Joe and I enjoyed our occasional visits with Father English and Vickie along with mutual friends, the Sigurdsons. - Posted by: pat psooy (friend) on: May 15, 2021
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We are so sorry to see the passing of Bob. He was a very nice and gentle man. Although we haven't seen him for some time, we often think of him when we drive past Silverstone where the Good Shepherd was located. - Posted by: Terry and Valerie Robert (Former parishoners) on: May 15, 2021
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Condolences to Victoria and your family. We often thought of Father English over the years. He did such a great job at our Wedding and reception. We missed him when he left the Church of the Good Shepherd. There were plans to contact Father English to Renew our vows once Covid was over. - Posted by: Donna & Vic Mondor (Church of the Good Shepherd Parishner ) on: May 15, 2021
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Vicki: It was only a few weeks ago that I chatted with you in the hallway at LWT and you told me of Bob's recent health struggles. I was sorry to read of his passing this morning. I always enjoyed my brief visits with him. Our sincere condolences to you and your family. - Posted by: Lloyd & James Jensen (Neighbor) on: May 15, 2021
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