It is with heavy hearts that the family of Mr. Robert James "Bob" Darcis, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, announce his peaceful passing on Monday, July 22, 2024, at St. Joseph's Hospice with family by his side. Born on October 9, 1935, in Port Arthur, ON, to parents James and Tynne, Bob's life was marked by his adventurous spirit, intelligence, and passion for everything he did; especially when it came to hockey.
Bob's early years were spent on the waters of Lake Superior, working alongside his father, a commercial fisherman, where he developed a strong work ethic and a love for the great outdoors. He loved spending time on the boat and exploring the Welcome Islands. As a boy, he attended Queen Street Public School and Port Arthur Collegiate Institute for High School. Bob's athletic prowess earned him a hockey scholarship to the University of North Dakota, where he majored in Business, setting the stage for a successful career.
After graduation, Bob began working in the Lab at the Dryden Mill, soon transitioning to Great West Life. His career flourished, leading him to positions with Crown Life and eventually to the role of corporate manager, which relocated him to Toronto. From here, his portfolio frequently brought him to Nassau, Bahamas for a number of years. Bob's leadership and expertise were recognized when he was called back to Thunder Bay by Crown Life to manage operations for Northern Ontario, and he concluded his professional journey as a respected broker with Great West Life until his retirement in 2000.
Sports were Bob's lifelong passion. He played junior hockey with the Port Arthur North Stars (1954-1955) and the Dryden Rockets (1957-1959), and later played senior hockey with the Port Arthur Bearcats (1969). His talent on the ice was evident when he was invited to play in the British League in 1960. He gracefully declined this opportunity and remained a casual player for the Kenora Thistles. Bob also excelled in football with the P.A.C.I. Redmen, baseball with the Port Arthur and Dryden Red Sox, and senior fastball with Peterson's Circle. Even later in life, he continued to play recreational baseball with the Mr. Transmission team and was a proud member of the Thunder Bay Country Club, where he achieved a memorable hole-in-one at the Canadian Tire Tournament. A true sports enthusiast, he was a dedicated fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto Blue Jays, who held a special place in his heart.
Bob's sense of adventure extended beyond sports. He was a world traveller, with Finland being a favourite destination. His travels took him from the heights of Switzerland, where he discovered a fear of heights, to the excitement of Las Vegas and the sunny shores of Florida. He enjoyed summers spent salmon fishing in British Columbia and from 1993 to 2005, relaxing in Grand Marais; these were some of his most cherished moments.
Bob was a man of integrity, warmth, and humour, who enriched the lives of those around him. He is survived by his devoted wife, Wendy; his loving sons, Phil, David (Michelle), and Paul; his “girls”, Tracy Morrisseau (Bill) and Melissa Kuoppa-Aho (Jason); and his adored grandchildren, Katie, Brennan, Samantha, Richard, Brandon, Kaleigh, Zoe, and Noah. His memory will also be treasured by his mother-in-law Marie Hope, siblings-in-law, Sharon (James) Dewolfe, Robert Hope, David Hope, and Pam Jensen (Edwin); his life long friend, John (Sue) Harpell of Green Bay, WI; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Bob was predeceased by his parents, James and Tynne; his grandson, Cody; his sister and brother-in-law, Eleanor and James Field; his sister-in-law, Shirley Hope; and his lifelong friends, Ab Slivinski, Jim Harnett, and Hugh Norman, along with many others.
Bob lived a full life, marked by the love of his family, the camaraderie of friends, and the joy of his many adventures. His legacy of passion and perseverance will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered as a man who embraced life with enthusiasm and grace.
The family would like to extend their sincerest thanks to all of those who were part of Bob’s care team. A special thanks to Dr. Stewart Kennedy for the exceptional care, compassion, and kindness provided to Bob over many years and to Dr. Amir Faghih at the TBRHSC Cancer Centre. We would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Kristen Bodnar from Ontario Health at Home, the nursing and PSW teams at Paramed, the staff at Partners in Rehab, and the staff at Medigas, who enabled him to remain at home for as long as possible. To Dr. Felipe Teixeira, the team at St. Joe’s Hospice, and far too many others to name; your kindness, compassion, and support will never be forgotten.
Wendy would like to take this time to thank their children for being by her side through Bob’s final journey. “I could not have gotten through this without the tremendous amount of love and support they showed me. They are my rock! I love you. Also a huge thank you to my sister, Pam, who was there for me every step of the way, no matter what time. To my brothers, Dave and Bob, who helped me in so many ways. I am forever grateful. I love you. And to my friends, no words can express how thankful I am to have all of you in my life. Thank you for your support, you are the best.”
As per his wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family gathering will be held at a later date. The family graciously declines flowers at this time. Should friends so desire, donations in memory of Bob may be made to St. Andrew’s Dew Drop Inn.
An Eternal Memory... Until We Meet Again
Those special memories of you
will always bring a smile,
if only I could have you back
for just a little while,
then we could sit and talk again,
just like we used to do.
You always meant so very much
and always will do too.
The fact that you’re no longer here
will always cause me pain,
but you’re forever in my heart
until we meet again.
R.I.P, my love.
Online condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
