Obituary of Robert Thomas Sterling

Robert “Bob” Thomas Sterling 1922-2013 Bob passed away peacefully in the Victoria Hospital December 12, 2009, with his daughters at his side. Bob will be forever remembered and forever cherished by his wife of 62 years, Betty (Hyndman) Sterling; his daughters Dwana (Tony) Atkins, Bobbi Sterling, and Joanne (Brian) Jewitt; his sons Sheldon (June) Sterling, Ward (Michelle) Sterling; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his brother Gordon Sterling and sister Joycelyne Horsley as well as his nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Bob was born in the Holy Family Hospital in Prince Albert, July 22, 1922 to Eveline and Ned Sterling. He grew up on the farm in Pleasantville where he attended school until grade three. The remainder of his schooling was in Shellbrook. Bob joined the Navy Reserves in 1943, until he received a medical discharge. He then took a Millwright course which took him to Montreal and Edmonton where he and Betty were married in 1947. They moved back to Shellbrook and began farming with his dad. Tough farming times offered many opportunities to work other jobs. One of these was driving the school bus as a spare. He eventually got his own run and drove for 26 years. Bob loved the kids (and their parents) and shared many laughs and stories over the years. When he began making grave covers, he employed many young people over the years, including his own children. Everyone enjoyed working with him. Not only was he entertaining, but he gave many history lessons on those who had gone before. Bob and Betty bought an old cabin at Memorial Lake in 1974 where many family outings were held. The grandchildren have many wonderful memories of fishing with grandpa and granny. The Sterling’s travelled many places and enjoyed wonderful holidays with the Coopers over the last 35 years. Their home was always open to their children’s friends and Bob continued to enjoy many of these friendships throughout his life. Bob was loving, entertaining, funny and possessed a wonderful sense of humor. There was never a dull moment where he was around. He especially enjoyed visiting and chatting with his many friends and relatives on a daily basis. The Memorial Service for Bob was held December 9, 2009 in the Shellbrook Seniors Hall. David Moe was the Officiant, eulogists were granddaughters Jill Atkins and Erin Matthew and organist was Pat Sonntag. Pat also sang the musical selection “What a wonderful world”. The Parkland Four and Sharon Merek rendered two beautiful gospel selections. Niece June Moe graciously said a special prayer for Bob and gave the blessing. Special Honor Guard was Sargent Michael Sharron. Memorial donations may be made in memory of Bob to the Shellbrook and Districts Health Services Project. Condolences sent to www.beaulacfuneralhome.com will be forwarded to the family. Arrangements were entrusted to the care of Beau “Lac” Funeral Home, Tammy Smart Director, 306-747-2828. terment will take place at a later date.