Herbert "Robert" Ryan Burns

Herbert Ryan Robert (Bob) Burns

October 15, 1928 - October 20, 2019

It is with sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Bob, who passed away on October 20, 2019 after a brief hospitalization. 

Born on October 15, 1928 in the Town of Banbridge in County Down, Northern Ireland, into a family of five. Bob is predeceased by his wife, Betty Burns, who passed away on May 23, 2015, and by his parents, Herbert and Mary Burns (nee Reid). He is survived by his brother, Hugh, and his sister-in-law, Margaret. 

At a very young age, Bob joined the Army Cadets, and at age 17 joined the British Army Royal Artillery, in which he rose to the rank of Sergeant Instructor. Bob completed his army service with an honourable discharge as Instructor of Gunnery after serving in Germany, and into Reserve Status. 

While stationed in Hammersmith, near London and close to Commonwealth Postgraduate School of Medicine, nurses would come to the Sergeant's mess for a dance. Betty, one of those nurses, became the love of Bob's life, a match made in heaven that lasted 62 years. 

After the war, Bob started his career working for a Phillips dealership in Cornwall, and after moving to Canada, for one in Richmond. 

In retirement, Bob and Betty came to Qualicum Beach and eventually bought a lot from Hank Bennett on Balsam, where they built their dream home and gardens. Through an Irish friend, Bob and Betty joined St. Columba Church, where Bob served as an Elder. 

Bob and Betty also served the community by volunteering with Citizens on Patrol and by canvassing for the Canadian Cancer Society. Private cremation has been arranged and a celebration of Bob's life will be held at St. Columba on November 2, 2019 at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. 

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