Robert (Bob) Michels, aged 76, passed away peacefully at St. Joseph’s Hospice on May 22nd, 2016 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.
Bob is lovingly remembered by his wife of 52 years Peggy, and 3 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 7 grandchildren, who provided more ears to hear his stories, Caelan, Gillian, Daniel, Ryan, Rachel, Isabelle and Adam. He is 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.
Bob 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 1970’s 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 to manage the Heavy Equipment Operators’ Course and establish 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 Corporation 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 in 1986 and went on to become a life member of Lions International. His most rewarding career was his appointment on June 18th, 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.
A funeral service is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 28th at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, located at 808 East Ridgeway Street, Thunder Bay. The Venerable Deborah Kraft will officiate the ceremony. A Celebration of Bob’s life reception will follow at The Valhalla Inn, Scandia Room at 12:30 pm. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Bob’s life. 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.
The family would like to thank Dr. Scali, Dr. Zaib, Nurses of 2A, and Nurses of St. Joseph’s Hospice for their devotion towards the comfort and care of Bob.
