Robert D. CARMAN

1932 - 2024

ROBERT D. CARMAN July 13, 1932 - January 7, 2024 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert D. Carman on January 7, 2024. Bob was born in Chatham, Ontario in July of 1932, only child to Ralph S. and Minnie G. Carman. Bob is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Beverley Carman; and children, Doug Carman, Barb Wagner, Don Carman (Eva); and grandchildren, Tamara Wagner (Mike), Karl Wagner (Cassandra), Robert Carman and Daniel Carman. Following in his father's footsteps, Bob graduated from the University of Toronto, Bachelor of Science, Forestry in 1954. Bob's distinguished public service career with the Government of Ontario commenced as a Forester for the Department of Lands and Forests in 1954. He worked for 35 years in the Ontario Public Service with progressively responsible positions in Department of Lands and Forests before moving to Management Board of Cabinet from 1972 to 1977. Bob served as Deputy Minister for Community and Social Services from 1978 to 1981, returning as Secretary of Management Board until 1985. Bob was appointed Secretary to the Cabinet and Clerk of the Executive Council from 1985 to 1989 and as Special Advisor to the Premier of Ontario from 1989 to 1990. Bob's private sector career included a 4 year term as Chief Silviculturist at Northwestern Pulp and Power in Hinton, Alberta in the mid 1960's as well as work with Weston Foods from 1990-1993 and Government Policy Consultants from 1995 to 2003. Bob served as board member and board chair of MMM Group from 2003 to 2011, board member for Bridgepoint Hospital from 2001 to 2010, director and executive committee member for the Niagara Institute from 1984 to 1994 and board member for the Cobourg Hospital from 2012/2013 to 2021. Bob was recognized for his exemplary public service receiving the Vanier Medal in 1988, became a Member of the Order of Canada in 1995, and was saluted by the Public Policy Forum in 1989 for outstanding contributions to public policy and public sector management in Canada. Bob received the Queen's Silver Jubilee Medal in 1977 and the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002. Bob's greatest passion was his family and his many friends. Bob loved their 100 acre tree farm in Colborne, Ontario, downhill skiing throughout North America and Europe, travel, hiking and the natural world. Bob remained close with his graduating class 5T4 and planned and attended reunions every few years until recently. Bob will be missed. A former colleague noted that Bob was a gentleman and public servant of the highest calibre and integrity. He served all Ontarians with a rare dedication and determination. He will be remembered for his high ethical standards, principled leadership, his passion for accountability and always doing the right thing. The family wishes to thank the staff at Grand River Hospital and Freeport Hospital in Kitchener, Ontario for their amazing and compassionate care and the staff at Home and Community Care Support Services Waterloo Wellington for their support. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the charity of your choosing, the Northumberland Hills Hospital Foundation or the Grand River Hospital Foundation. Friends and colleagues are invited for a Celebration of Life on February 10, 2024 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at MacCoubrey Funeral Home in Cobourg, Ontario.