To those who met him, Bob’s kindness was unwavering. He had a quiet generosity that spoke louder than words. Month after month—often more—he would stop by the Brockville & District Hospital Foundation, offering donations to support areas of greatest need. He also gave to the Your Health, Your Hospital campaign, always with thoughtfulness and sincerity. In his final act of giving, Bob left a gift to the Foundation in his estate—a lasting testament to the compassion and selflessness that defined his life.
Bob was a quiet, humble man, who was never taken with the trappings of money and possessions. He was a gentle soul who loved his cat, Kitten, befriended porch chipmunks, and loved 70s rock. He inspired kindness and the spirit of giving and we were inspired by his generous and thoughtful heart.
Known to many as Sensei Bob, he was more than a teacher of karate and self-defense—he was a mentor, a guide, and a steady presence in the lives of countless children and youth over the years. He inspired respect through patience, integrity, and a deep sense of care.
Bob’s faith community at Brockville Wesleyan Church was a cornerstone of his life. He gave his time generously, volunteering with kids and youth programs and lending his quiet strength to Silver Lake Wesleyan Camp. A lifelong learner, Bob read extensively, listened with intention, and was always up for a spontaneous game of parking lot hockey.
In his final years, as he faced his cancer diagnosis, Bob remained gracious and strong. His family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Brockville General and Kingston General Hospitals for their dedicated care, and to the neighbours, CHPC drivers, and friends who stood by him in his time of need.
Bob’s spirit of giving, his gentleness, and his steady heart have left a mark on all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched—and in the Foundation he so deeply believed in.
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“I think we are a loyal, closely-knit group who usually work well under pressure… we are not “Clock watchers.” Many of us have had OR, OBS or ICU experience and feel we can cope with anything that comes in the back door.” – Laura Noonan
Bob’s mother, Laura, passed on her deep sense of compassion and generosity to her son, shaping his love for caring for others. Laura was widely admired for her fiery spirit, infectious laugh, and nurturing nature. She had a zest for life and adventure—she especially loved walks along the river trails and once even soared in a hot air balloon. A caregiver at heart, Laura graduated from Brockville General Hospital’s nursing program in 1949. She began her career at Brockville General, Brockville Psychiatric, and Welland General Hospitals. In 1950, she joined St. Vincent De Paul Hospital, where she worked part- and full-time until her retirement in 1983. She spent most of her years in the Emergency Department, having transitioned there in 1966 after initially working in the Operating Room.
Laura passed away at Brockville General Hospital on July 3, 2019, at the age of 92. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of kindness, care, and generosity to her sons and granddaughters.