DUNBAR, Robert John

(August 26, 1948 – March 15, 2017) - It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a great dad, papa, brother and friend.
Robert passed away suddenly on March 15, 2017 at his home in Blind River. Robert loved many things, hunting, fishing, 2 Camp and his office “The Riverside”, but nothing compared to the love he had for his children and grandchildren.  Life will be forever changed for his daughter, Lori and son-in-law, Dave, who cherished every moment spent with him.  His time was cut short with his son, Robbie and he missed him every day,  never missing an opportunity to tell a story about adventures they shared.  As greatly as he will be missed here, Robbie now has his fishing partner and Dad by his side.  Robert could not have been more proud to be Papa to his “favourite” grandson, Joshua and  his “favourite”  granddaughter, Ava.  His eyes would light up every time he spoke of them.  He taught them to play cribbage and to fish, and they knew never to share his fishing secrets and special fishing holes.  Joshua will always remember shooting his first partridge standing beside his Papa.  Ava will never forget being the first one to catch a fish through the ice at 2 Camp with her Papa.  The highlight of Joshua and Ava’s trips to Blind River was in anticipation of going to 2 Camp or their morning trips to Tim Horton’s with their Papa.  These are memories that will be everlasting!  Robert was born in Blind River to the late Roy and Edith Dunbar.  He was a big brother to Patricia Lawlor (Jim), Bill (Betty Ann), Cheryl Anthony (late John), Karen Deschatelets (Gaetan), Marilyn Hunt (Lynn), Allan (Holly). Even though many of his sisters left Blind River, they remained close and he cherished their visits and time they spent together.  Robert was married to Lucienne Johnson (Bilton) for many years, and even though their marriage ended, they remained great friends.  Family gathering always included both of them which was a blessing for his daughter and grandchildren.  He will be missed by his extended family.  Mother-in-law Colette Bilton (late John), Ron Bilton (Judy), late Larry Bilton (Marcelle), Donna Lediett (late Dave), Ann Thomas (John), Joyce Maitland (Terry) and Linda Makela (Raymond).  He also has numerous nieces and nephews who will miss his big laugh and endless jokes.  Robert and his best friend, Donny Tulloch spent endless days fishing and hunting together.  Robert cherished their friendship, and was grateful to always have Donny by his side.  His circle of friends is as great as his many hunting and fishing stories, and so long as these stories continue to be told, he will always be with us.  A celebration of Robert’s life will be held at the Riverside Tavern, Sunday March 19, 2017 from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m.  Please join us and share your stories and memories of Robert.