Bob Burnside

Bob died peacefully with his loved ones by his side Sunday, March 9, 2014 around 3 am.  He leaves behind his mother Nancy Dorothy Vizzutti, wife Michelle Bertand and his precious daughter Matilda.  He also leave behind five adult children whom he led through life with fatherly direction: Jessika Parson, Dominick Landry (and his son Savier), Amy Rosborough (her husband Josh and Bob's munchkins Maya and Lola), Raphael Bertrand (his partner Jamie Storm) and Cedric Bertrand (his wife Suk Yi Kim and her daughter Leah).  Also left to mourn are Bob's sister Sandy Cyr (her husband Gary and their children Kerry and James), sister Milda Leggett (her husband Wayne), his extended family and too many friends to name.

Bob cared a lot about people his whole life, especially children, whom he taught for many years in Powell River.  He was a unique character who gave so much to others expecting nothing in return.  We will miss him deeply.

He was a loving husband, father, brother and teacher but more than anything a true dear friend to those who took the time to know him.  We will miss his humour, kindness and unique way of connecting with others.  For many, he was a living legend; there will never be another like him.  Anywhere you go in Powell River, many have a story to tell about Bob as he had touched a lot of people in a lot of different ways.  Wherever he is now, hopefully there is lots of fishing, a good kitchen, a good bottle of Cuban rum, good company and lots of laughter.

Bob's request was that there be no funeral or memorial service held in his hounour, however anybody who wants to remember him in their own way are more than welcome to do so as Bob would have preferred it that way.  In his memory please feel free to donate to a foundation for underprivileged children or shelters for battered women as they were both causes close to Bob's heart.  Special thanks to Dr. Paula Osoa, the home care nurses and all the people who were there to help him through his final battle with cancer.

Rest in peace, Big Guy, you deserve that break after all you've done for all of us.  We love you with all our hearts and you will always live on through our memories, our thoughts and our hearts.  See you when we get there!

Bob Burnside age 66 born in Vancouver BC on January 4, 1948 has passed away peacefully on Sunday March 9, 2014 in Powell River BC. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Published in Vancouver Sun and/or The Province from Mar. 14 to Mar. 14

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