Robert Edward BETHUNE

1935 - 2022

ROBERT EDWARD BETHUNE March 10, 1935 - August 6, 2022 It is with great sadness that we announce the loss of Robert Bethune (Bob to friends and Robbie to family), deeply loved husband of Marion Leslie and Betty Laugher (predeceased 2000), who died peacefully in Palliative Care at Sunnybrook Hospital. He was the loving father of Carol (Scott Roberts and granddaughter, Laura Noelle Roberts) and son, Doug; and beloved brother of Kenneth (predeceased 2016) and Dr. Richard Bethune (Judith). Uncle Robbie was dearly loved by his nieces and nephews: Wendy, Cheri, Brian, Leslie, Kathy, Paul (predeceased), David and Judy. While we are heart broken, the memory of his distinctive laugh and the strength of his love for us will buoy our spirits in the days to come. Robbie followed in the footsteps of his older brothers through Westdale Collegiate in Hamilton, striving to excel in his grades and in sports as they had. While he was so proud to see Richie enter the Sports Hall of Fame at Westdale and the University of Toronto, he was happy to ace every golf course he played with them. After high school Robbie followed Richie to Williams College, Williamstown, MA, completing his BA (History). One of his greatest thrills in life was to play hockey on the same line with his older brother at Williams. The Prudential Insurance Co. of America was his first work experience; however, it was not long before Bob enrolled at the University of Toronto and completed his MBA (1962). As luck would have it, he found his way to the United Cooperatives of Ontario where he enjoyed a rewarding and successful career, retiring as the Chief Executive Officer in 1992. It is said that Bob had a unique way of injecting humour into a serious situation which helped to find the path forward. Throughout his studies and work life, Bob made lifelong friends who he cherished and respected and with whom he shared travels, cottage life at Lake Muldrew and countless golf games over the years. Bob was a member of St. Andrew's Humber Heights Presbyterian Church for 60 years, serving in many leadership roles locally, (elder, clerk of session, trustee) and at the national level with the Presbyterian Church of Canada. The funeral service will be held and livestreamed at Glen Oaks Funeral Home and Cemetery, 3164 Ninth Line, Oakville, ON, on Sunday, August 14, 2022; visitation 2:00 - 3:00 p.m., service 3:00 p.m. followed by a reception. If you wish to make a donation in memory of Bob, please consider St. Andrew's Humber Heights, Presbyterian Church, 1579 Royal York Rd., Etobicoke, ON, M4P 3C5 or a Charity of Your Choice. Online condolences may be made through glenoaks.ca.