Obituary of Bob Carey

To Watch Recorded Version of the Service, click on this link:  https://video.ibm.com/embed/recorded/133533177

Robert (Bob) Michael Carey

June 24, 1938 – April 8, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of husband, father, uncle, and grandfather, Robert (Bob) Carey.  Bob passed away peacefully the morning of April 8, 2024 at the age of 85 years with his family by his side. Over the past few years, he struggled with a muscle wasting disease (body inclusion myositis) which stole his independence and ability to walk. True to his character, he maintained his sense of humour, gentleness, and kindness throughout.

Bob is survived by: his loving wife of 62 years, Phyllis (nee Lappi) his sons: Dean (Jill), grandchildren Robert, Benjamin (Yasamin), Janna, Paige; and Patrick, grandchildren Bren and Kael; his brother-in-law Vern Lappi (Marilyn) and several nieces and nephews. Bob was predeceased by his parents Michael and Edna, twin brother Bill, sister-in-law Darlene, father-in-law Jack, mother-in-law Hilma, brother-in-law Leonard and nephew Glenn.

Bob was born in Humboldt, Sask. and along with his identical twin brother, Bill (William), was adopted in 1941 by his parents Michael and Edna Carey. Michael was still serving overseas in WWII at the time, and once he returned home, the family lived on a farm near Oxbow, Sask. Subsequently, they lived in a variety of small towns in southern Saskatchewan operating different small businesses and restaurants. Bob then spent his teenage years in Indian Head, Sask., going to school, playing baseball and hockey, and working in the family restaurant before joining the military just before his 18^th birthday.

Bob served in Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI) in Edmonton for 3 years and was honourably discharged in 1959. He was proud to serve his country and follow in his father’s military service, which Bob credited with teaching him self-discipline and providing opportunities for new experiences. Initially, he was a paratrooper in the PPCLI until he was in a horrible accident during military parachute exercises outside of Calgary. He broke most of the bones on the right side of his body, and after recovering in hospital, he finished his duty as an MP with the military police.

 After his military service, Bob moved to Yorkton, Sask. to work, and met Phyllis Lappi. They married in 1961 and then lived and worked in Regina, Sask.; Bob in the wire rope business at Greening Donald Company Ltd, and Phyllis at the Royal Bank. They welcomed their first son Dean in 1965, and then Patrick in 1968. The family moved to Saskatoon in 1973 for a promotional opportunity with Wire Rope Industries. Bob then spent his career serving the mining and forestry industry, retiring as the Branch Manager in Saskatoon in 2000.

Bob always had a strong work ethic during his career, and was also actively involved with his family and sports in the community. He coached his sons and later managed different hockey teams they played on. He loved hockey and was a huge Detroit Red Wings fan.

Once retired, Bob and Phyllis spent many winters in Yuma, Arizona, enjoyed going on cruises, and spending time with their grandchildren. Bob loved his family and grandchildren dearly, spending time visiting, and celebrating all their accomplishments.

In his final years, Bob struggled with mobility and spent the last few months at Stensrud Lodge. The family would like to thank Dr. Kozakavich for his medical care throughout his life, as well as Dr. Woloschuk and the staff at Stensrud Lodge for their care and kindness. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Diabetes Association or Salvation Army would be appreciated. 

Bob’s Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, April 18, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. from Saskatoon Funeral Home.