Robert BURTWELL

BURTWELL, Robert Thomas "Bob"
March 4, 1927 - November 22, 2012
Bob died peacefully in his sleep, after a couragous battle with diabetes at the German Canadian Care home in Vancouver. He will be remembered and missed by his wife Virginia, sons Brian (Freda), Jeff (Donna) and Marty, grandchildren Sara and Kyle, stepchildren Ron, Kelly, Karen, Kristen and their families. Bob was a true Vancouverite. He was born at St. Pauls Hospital, grew up in the West End and attended King George High. Bob would spend his summers playing sports and lifeguarding at English Bay and Ambleside beach. He played all sports growing up and excelled at basketball. Bob was the captain of the 1956 Canadian Olympic Basketball team in Melbourne, he represented Canada at two World championships and won an unprecedented five Canadian championships with the Vancouver Clover Leafs. As a member of the 1947-48 Clover Leafs he was inducted into the B.C. Sports Hall of Fame in 1993. A dedicated athlete you could still find Bob playing pick-up basketball and racquetball at the Downtown YMCA well into his 60's. Bob and Virginia enjoyed travelling the world and enjoyed many good times with close friends. The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff at Richmond Community Dialysis Centre for their care over the many years, and most recently the compassionte and caring nurses at German Canadian Care Home. In lieu of flowers, a contribution to either The Canadian Diabetes Association or The Candian Kidney Association would be appreciated. The family will recognize Bob's passing with a private rememberance at English Bay. Condolences may be made at rememberingbobburtwell@gmail.com.