Robert John Day

1931 - 2016

Robert John Day passed away in St. Joseph's hospital on May 25th, 2016 at 5:45 am in Thunder Bay, Ontario with his family by his side.

Bob was born on September 9, 1931 in Oxford, England. He was the youngest of three children and the only son. At 19 he was conscripted into the British Army achieving rank of second lieutenant. In 1952 Robert enrolled at Oxford University where he studied Forestry. After graduating with honours, he was awarded a Forestry Fellowship and completed his masters at the University of New Brunswick. There he met his wife of 33 years Susan Laverty. He taught at the University of Toronto, Lakehead University, Lae University of Technology (PNG). Robert was a world renowned leader and researcher in Silviculture. He loved carpentry, created magnificent flower and vegetable gardens, enjoyed Nordic skiing, was a master marionette puppeteer, produced puppet shows with children in the community, adored painting, and liked riding his e-bike and most of all spending time with his family. He was a spiritual man involved in the Brotherhood of St Andrew men's church group with his son Ralph. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family, and all who knew him.

Robert is survived by his children; Rebecca Winnett-Day, Bill Day [Helene], Ralph Day [Wendy] and Rachel Day; his grandchildren Barbara Vukmanich, Andrew Vukmanich, Paul Vukmanich, Jonathan Day, Matthieu Day, Jessica Day, and Adam Day: his sisters Ann Norman and Barbara Richards and their children. He is predeceased by his parents William and Ida Day, and his dear friend Mary Duchnicki.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 4, 2016 at St. Thomas Anglican Church at 9:00am, 1400 Edward St. South celebrated by Pastor Doug McClure, the internment will follow at Riverside Cemetery then a funeral reception. Expressions of sympathy memorials to St. Joseph's Hospital.