Robert (Bob) Goldie passed away March 25, 2016 at 83 years of age, at home cared for by his family with help from Dr Tanya Daws, VIHA and OMNI Care.
He was predeceased by his parents in Merritt, Addie and Jim Goldie and his brother Frank.
He is survived by his wife if 61 years Joyce (Joy), sons Bob and Ted and daughter Lauren Smith (Lorne), eight grandchildren; Griffen, Caitlin, Carmen, Wyatt, Dayna, Sara, Rob and Trevor. His sister Eileen (Jim) and many nieces & nephews and cousin, lifelong friend Fred (Marg) Goldie.
Bob served in the RCAF for 27 years as a pilot in Air Defence Command, Transport Command & Brigade Headquarters in Europe. He served with three SAR units, the last being 442 in Comox.
While in Comox he worked and travelled over the province with a team promoting flying safety to civilian clubs. He was awarded the Chief of Defence Staff commendation for the difficult rescue of people off a sailboat in a storm at sea, and received his MMM during his last year.
After his release he worked as a corporate helicopter pilot for a lumber company in Prince George for seven years.
He was involved with the air wing of P.E.P. and when diabetes ended his commercial license he moved back to Comox where he continued as volunteer provincial air chief with P.E.P.. He was the founding president of C.A.S.A.R.A. and served for several years. He spend seven summers at HMCS Quadra- the last six as operation officer.
After his third and final retirement he travelled and camped from Alaska to Newfoundland, and spent 14 years as a California snowbird. The last eight years they travelled with organized tours and cruises.
Bob lived his life with enjoyment, integrity and humor. Farewell and well done.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 888 Wing April 23, from 2-4pm.