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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
GIBBONS, Robert Daniel - It is with profound sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved father, Bobby, in his 87th year. Born in Florence to the late Elvira (MacKinnon) and Robert Gibbons, Dad was the eldest of three children. The family later moved to Sydney Mines, where he resided for most of his life.
Dad was an intelligent, dedicated, and loyal family man. He was an electrician by trade but truly a jack of all trades - skilled in carpentry, plumbing, fixing small and large appliances, and, of course, always working on vehicles. He freely shared his talents to help anyone in need. Dad had an unmatched work ethic from a young age, milking cows for pocket money, right through to his retirement at 71.
Dad’s first love was the water, which led him to an early career in the Navy. He then returned home to the coal mines in his beloved Cape Breton, and finally back to the water. He finished his career as an electrician on the Marine Atlantic Ferries, where he made many lifelong friends.
Dad also had a passion for the outdoors. Everyone knew how much he loved hunting, fishing, and camping trips over the years. Many heartwarming - and sometimes exaggerated - stories were shared throughout his life. Besides the outdoors, Dad and Mom enjoyed their bowling and card games with their best friends, James and Esther. The time spent with them and their wonderful children made them family as well.
In his last few years, Dad loved playing dice, especially when winning against Terry, who was like another daughter to him. Dad was a fantastic dancer from a very young age. He shared his love of music and dancing with his beautiful sister Kay (whom he lovingly called "Chicken"), and we are grateful to her for making his final years of dancing so memorable and joyful.
Dad is survived by his loving daughters, Irene (Billy), Linda (Cyril), and Roberta (John), and by his cherished granddaughters, Meagan, Casey, and Kyha. He is also survived by his loving sister, Kay Meers, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
Besides his parents, Dad was predeceased by the love of his life, Joan; his brother and best friend, Johnny (Gibby), and his wife, Sandra; and his brothers-in-law, Earl Rose and John Meers.
We would like to thank the paramedics, doctors, nurses, and staff of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital for their kindness and compassion during Dad’s brief time there.
A very special thank you to the VON and to the County Homemakers, especially Clayton, Nathan, Cory, Park, and Dave. Also, a big thank you to Darryl, Natalie, and Tammy. Each of you made Dad’s final years meaningful and rewarding - you are truly earth angels.
Dad always said he lived a long and full life with no regrets, and we are very blessed to have had him for as long as we did.
In keeping with Dad’s wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral service. A private family service will be held at a later date. (J. M. Jobes Funeral Home)
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