Robert Michels
Robert (Bob) Michels, 76, passed away peacefully May 22, 2016 at St. Joseph’s Hospice in Thunder Bay, Ontario with his family by his side.
Bob was born on September 5, 1939 in Fort William to parents Frances and Christian Michels.
He spent his childhood on McGregor Avenue traveling the city bus to listen to the music of the city bands which sparked the continuous enjoyment of music. Bob loved to share his tales and vast experiences as a young man working at the Great Lakes Bush Camp and the Mill, as a gate man at the city dump, summers at Sandy Beach, and his career with Clare Mapledoram Agencies. Beginning in the 1970s Bob’s desire for continuous knowledge, new challenges, and experiences started with the opportunity he had to participate in a Rotary Fellowship in England. Then, with a young family Bob and Peggy embarked on a new life moving from Thunder Bay to Quetico Centre, where he managed the heavy equipment operators’ course and established himself as leader, catalyst, and mentor for innovative leadership with numerous local, regional and national groups.
Bob sought further challenges and growth when he moved on to become head of the Atikokan Economic Development Corp. in 1986, and following that, during his many years running his own business as a management consultant. During his time in Atikokan, Bob joined the Atikokan Lions Club (1986) and went on to become a life member of Lions International.
His most rewarding career was his appointment on June 18, 2003 to the Ontario Courts as a Justice of the Peace. His approachable nature combined with his genuine interest and unique perspective garnered the respect and attention of his family, friends, and peers seeking guidance or an ear to bend. From behind the bench of the Courthouse, the office in the Voyageur Mall in Atikokan, or catching a minute alone during a special event, Bob was there to offer guidance, wisdom, perspective, and support to friends, family and colleagues alike.
Bob is lovingly remembered by his wife of 52 years Peggy, and three children, Chris (Eileen) Michels, Robert (Shannon) Michels, and Katie (Malcolm) Clarke. He is survived by his sister Margaret McKay, sister Anne Bailey and brother-in-law Jack Bailey. He was thrilled with his seven grandchildren, who provided more ears to hear his stories, Caelan, Gillian, Daniel, Ryan, Rachel, Isabelle and Adam.
He was preceded in death by his mother Frances, father Christian, brother Jack, sister Frances Morin, nephews John and Jim Michels, niece Patricia Bailey and great niece Meghan McQuiggan.
A funeral service was held May 28 at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, with the Venerable Deborah Kraft officiating. A celebration of Bob’s life followed at the Valhalla Inn. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Thunder Bay Regional Hospital Foundation directed to the Lions Vision Care Center, St. Paul’s Church Memorial Fund, or the John Howard Society. Condolences can be entered online to http://jenkensfuneral.ca.
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