It is with much love and sadness that we share the passing of Robert (Bob) Thomas McEwen on September 28, 2024, at the age of 94.
A proud Northerner, Bob was born and raised in Sault Ste. Marie to the late Robert and Valda McEwen. Brother to Valda Baskcomb (Art, both deceased), Rolly (Dorothy, deceased), Philip (Lorraine both deceased), Alan, deceased (Brenda). Bob was brother in law to Peggy Dool (Lloyd, both deceased). Colleen McDougall (Keith, both deceased), Billie Ake, deceased (Gene), Dawn Grant (Galen).
Loving and kind husband to Jackie for 71 years, an exceptional father to Karen McCleave (Chris) and Tom (Tamara), a fun loving grandpa to Ben (Robyn), Robert (Renata) and Elizabeth and a joyful great grandfather to Arthur and Oliver.
Bob put his family above all else. He loved them fiercely and was loved back unconditionally. His uncanny wisdom, keen intelligence, wicked sense of humour, street smarts and ability and desire to treat all equally made Bob a unique man who lit up any room he entered.
He was a reluctant student, who excelled in the workplace. From a constable, Bob rose quickly through the ranks to become the Chief of Police in 1978. As an officer, Bob demonstrated a remarkable ability to solve difficult crimes. As Chief, he was a pioneer in the advancement of women in policing, an early proponent of community policing and other important initiatives. In addition, he proudly served as president of the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police and was a lifetime member of the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police. Upon retirement in 1987 he was hired with the Ontario Police Commission (Policing Services Division) and travelled extensively across Ontario in an advisory capacity to other police services. And when duty called, he returned as Chief in the Soo from 1995-96.
Bob was deeply involved in the Sault Ste Marie community. His service included membership on several Boards, including Sault College and Alcoholics Anonymous. In 1996, for his lifetime contributions, he was awarded the City’s Medal of Merit.
Although Bob was dedicated to law enforcement and the people he served, he was truly happiest at home on his farm Ebony Acres, with Jackie, and with his standardbred race horses at Black Dirt Stables. At Ebony Acres they transformed the farm, adding magnificent gardens, renovating outbuildings, and rebuilding the barn they filled with horses and hereford cattle. He always had one of his beloved dogs by his side. On Black Road, he and the other owners built the barns and racetrack, where he spent many hours with his friends, training horses and chatting in the club room. His horses achieved great success throughout Ontario and Michigan. Perhaps Bob’s best days included a cut and baled hayfield and a perfectly dragged racetrack.
Bob was one of a kind- funny, smart, tough, compassionate, and filled with strength, inside and out. Bob led a full life and he knew it. He was the bedrock upon which his family has grown.
Special thanks go to Bev Nott, Bob’s devoted PSW, the PSW’s from CBI, Dr. Dawson and the palliative care team at the Sault Area Hospital.
Family and friends are welcome to the Arthur Funeral Home - Barton and Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. E, 705-759-2522) on Wednesday October 2, 2024, from 5 pm - 8 pm for a time of visitation. A service will be held on Thursday October 3, 2024, at 1 pm, at the Westminster Presbyterian Church (134 Brock Street, Sault Ste. Marie), Officiated by Rev. John Wilson and Rev. Paul Baskcomb. In lieu of flowers a memorial donation to Westminster Presbyterian Church (by Cheque) or the Sault Area Hospital Foundation (by Cheque or Online) can be made in Bob's honour. Online condolences and tributes can be made and found at www.arthurfuneralhome.com.