I first met Bob Bignell, a long-time WCA member, on a canoe trip to the Arctic some 8 or 9 years ago & we subsequently became good friends. I was asked to speak briefly at his Celebration of Life on 'Paddling Memories/Stories'. First a short bio of Bob's life.....
Biography
Bob grew up in Bristol spending his time fishing and caving, which was the foundation of a lifelong love and appreciation of all things outdoors. His love of caving and the outdoors combined with his qualifications in photography brought him from Bristol University, England, to McMaster University, Hamilton, in January 1970. Bob immediately recognized that life in Canada was full of opportunity and would fulfill his dream of adventure. So he quickly returned to Bristol England, married Jan and together they set off on a new life in Canada. Bob thoroughly enjoyed some 10 years in North America exploring caves in West Virginia, The Rockies (both summer and winter) and in Mexico. He assisted with field trips involving students and faculty and Bob formed lifelong friendships with many from McMaster. In the 80’s he worked part-time on a History degree and earned a Ba. In the 90’s Bob’s interest turned to wilderness canoeing especially in the Arctic and after a couple of solo trips Jan persuaded him to find a group to go with, which he did. He enjoyed the fellowship of the Wilderness Canoe Club members. Over the years, he and Jan spent many annual visits in the UK with family and friends. Bob and Jan took early retirement from McMaster in 2003 and made trips abroad to Peru to hike the Inca Trail; to Africa on safari and to Egypt. Bob’s health began to cause problems after the latter trip in 2010. 3 years of treatments proved ineffective for the lymphoma disease. Bob was able to make one last trip to the UK in 2011 and was fairly fit driving to many parts of the UK visiting family and friends, which he really enjoyed. Jan and Bob’s cottage near Dorset, ON is a relaxing place to rest and on many occasions Bob enjoyed paddling around the lake chatting with other cottagers. They have good friends in the area, as well as also having a favourite place in Algonquin Park at Brule Lake. Bob’s sense of humour, love for life and the outdoors, and helpful, caring nature will be missed by all of us
My own thoughts about Bob at his Celebration of Life Service.....
Paddling With Bob