John Robert (Bob) Barks

John Robert (Bob) Barks

Peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, Bob Barks passed away on November 16, 2022 at the Ottawa Civic Hospital.  Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Gayle, loving children, Shannon, Tricia and Trevor, step children Travis and Tara, grandchildren Jared, Austin, Emma, Justin, Kirk and Cody, step-grandchildren, Caelan, Jack and Brodie, and great granddaughter, Georgia as well as his sister Jan, brothers Tom and Ted and many nieces and nephews.  Bob was pre-deceased by his parents John and Marjorie Barks.

Bob’s career as a millwright took him from Deep River to the Rockies in northern BC and Pinawa, MB.  In 1978, he moved to Winnipeg where he ran a successful septic business for many years while raising his family.  Bob returned to his career as a millwright with AECL (now CNL) in Chalk River until he eventually retired in 1998 to spend more time with his loving wife and family.

Bob loved the outdoors, and whether it was snowmobiling , motorcycling, hunting or fishing he had many adventures up and down the Ottawa River.  From trips to Oiseau Rock or Swisha, his pontoon boat was his happy place.  When he wasn’t cruising up and down the river, Bob was often seen cheerfully shuttling other boaters between the parking lot and boat launch at the Deep River Marina.

Bob’s travels took him to Manitoba, BC, PEI, Gaspe Peninsula, Mexico and his bucket list cruise in Alaska with Gayle.  Over the years, he created lifelong memories with friends and family on camping trips in tents, camper vans as well as school busses he had converted to campers.

Bob had a lifelong love of music; he played the violin and harmonica, loved to hum and sing, and could also play the spoons when the mood struck him.  He was an amazing story teller, poet and even on occasion song-writer.

Bob was so kind and generous throughout his life, with a great sense of humour.  A true mentor and role model who loved spending time with his family, whether it was building go-carts and boats, or passing on his knowledge like woodworking, mechanics or just general life skills.  Even as he found some mobility challenges later in life, he was always willing and able to offer advice and guidance.   Bob will be forever missed by all whose lives he has touched.

The family sends its great appreciation for the care and compassion shown to Bob by the medical team at the Deep River and Pembroke Hospitals as well as the staff at the Ottawa Civic Hospital.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Deep River District Hospital Foundation, Heart and Stroke Foundation, or Diabetes Canada.

 A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 8, 2023 from 12 noon until 4:00 pm at the Deep River Yacht and Tennis Club.