Obituary of Robert William Volkmann

In his seventy-second year, we say goodbye to the kind, patient and caring man whom most of us knew as Bob. Robert William Volkmann passed as he lived, with peace and dignity, at Parkwood Hospital on November 3, 2011. Predeceased by his parents Kathleen and Fred Volkmann, he is survived by his loving wife Rene, devoted sons Nathan (Natalie) and Aaron, and his grandchildren Ben and Leah. He will be sorely missed by his siblings, Helen (Bill) Friesen, Carolyn Secret and Sharon Volkmann. Born in Calgary, Alberta, Bob grew up in British Columbia where he graduated from UBC with a BESc. in Mechanical Engineering. Shortly thereafter, Bob decided to pursue his love of travel by living and working in different countries around the globe. Bob’s love of skydiving allowed him to participate in over 300 recorded jumps, judge international competitions and experience the world in ways that many of us can only imagine. Bob and Rene met in Switzerland in 1969 and married in 1971. A job opportunity prompted a move to London where Bob began his career at 3M; one which lasted 31 years. As a husband and father, Bob’s life centered around family, work, friends and squash. His fondest memories were of trips taken with Rene (& family), supporting his sons in their endeavors and creating lasting friendships both at work and on the squash court. Family will receive friends from 5:00-8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 8th at the WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, where a Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 9th. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Bob are asked to consider the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada or the Palliative Care Unit at Parkwood Hospital.