Robert "Bob" VERNON

The Theatre World has lost a friend and ally. Robert Arthur Vernon, age 68, passed away peacefully March 25, 2021 with family by his side. Bob will long be remembered for his many contributions to the arts community in both Ontario and Alberta as a Scenic Carpenter, Teacher, Mentor, Advocate and Friend. Long-time member of The Canadian Institute for Theatre Technology (CITT), Bob served as Chair and Interim President of the Ontario Section. He was a very proud member of IATSE Local 461, serving as Chapter Secretary. Bob was a kind and gentle soul, dedicated to his craft and to the education of others. He taught Technical Theatre courses at Humber College, Ryerson and York University, helping shape many young minds and careers along the way. Even years later, he always had time to chat or provide advice to his former students and colleagues. Bob especially enjoyed his days supporting live productions at the Banff, Blythe and most recently, Shaw Festival Theatres, where his co-workers became his family. Never one to turn down a call, Bob also enjoyed working the occasional concert or convention hall any time opportunity knocked. Bob took great comfort in his faith and enjoyed his duties as Church Warden over the years, most recently at The Church of the Transfiguration. He was grateful for his time and friendships made at St George's Anglican. Special thanks to Reverends Cathie, Scott and Martha for their ministry, counsel and prayers. Even through the trials and tribulations of his second bout with Cancer, Bob remained upbeat and confident he would beat his illness and return to doing what he loved most—woodworking, travels to the UK and long chats with family and friends over a pint or two of craft beer. Bob was the beloved younger brother of Larry (Kate) and Beth of Nova Scotia. Predeceased by his parents, Foster and Doris Vernon, step-mother Elsie Wiens-Vernon and brother and sister in law, Murray and Mary Vernon. Stories of Bob will live on through his nieces and nephews: Doug (Sherry), Leah (Mark), Sarah (Chris), Cathy, Sean Palmer, Sarah Palmer Lucas, and Bob's many grand nieces and nephews. Bob was a proud 'honorary Grandad' to Colin. Visitation will be held at Hulse & English Funeral Home and Chapel, 75 Church Street, St. Catharines on Friday, April 2, 2021 from 2pm to 4pm. To keep within current Covid 19 regulations, appointments must be made to visit with the family. Please call the funeral home at 905-684-6346 during business hours to reserve your time. All guests are required to wear a mask upon entry to the funeral home, register at the door and maintain social distancing while visiting. Please remain in your cars until a member of the staff instructs you to enter the funeral home. A small private family service will take place Saturday, April 3, 2021 at 10 am at St. George's Church, St. Catharines. This service will be live-streamed for those who wish to attend remotely. Livestream information can be found on the funeral home website. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Shaw Festival Theatre in Bob's memory would be greatly appreciated. Online tributes and condolences may be made at www.hulseandenglish.com. Bob was a kind and generous man who made the world a better place, and we were the lucky ones to have known and loved him.