BOB MACHACEK

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BOB MACHACEK

October 25, 1941 - January 14, 2025

With great respect for his enduring optimism, we announce the peaceful passing of Robert "Bob" Machacek, of Ottawa, Ontario, in his 83rd year, on January 14, 2025.

He was the loving husband of nearly 58 years to Josephine, cherished father to Dan (Matilda) and Graham (Vicki), and a devoted grandfather to his beloved grandchildren Oskar, Klara, Axel, Reese, and Ella. Bob is survived by his nieces, Diane and Janet, and was predeceased by his sisters, Pat and Betty, as well as his parents, John and Alice.

Born in Winnipeg, Bob earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Education from the University of Manitoba in 1964. Known affectionately as "Mr. Mac" throughout his 33-year teaching career, he inspired thousands of students in high schools across Ottawa, Canada, and Africa. He specialized in science, biology, math, and computer science, holding teaching positions in Ghana, West Africa (1964 - 1966), Nepean High School (1966 - 1970), Jinja, Uganda (1970 - 1972), Laurentian High School (1972 - 1977), Sir Robert Borden High School (1977 - 1978), Colonel By High School (1978 - 1982), and Sir Wilfrid Laurier High School (1982 - 1997).

A devout Catholic and proud member of the Knights of Columbus, Bob was known for his exceptional patience, unwavering faith, and genuine interest in the lives of those around him. He had a remarkable ability to connect with others, always asking how they were doing with a sincere desire to listen and learn. Well-read and endlessly curious, Bob could engage in conversations on virtually any topic and was a dominant force in the family’s Trivial Pursuit games.

Bob loved to travel and built meaningful relationships worldwide, including through his years with the Ottawa Friendship Force. His journeys spanned Eastern and Western Canada, numerous parts of the United States, and many other countries. Each summer, at the helm of the family station wagon, he led countless cross-continent adventures, even weathering a tornado along the way! A lifelong music enthusiast, Bob played the saxophone with bands during his youth in Winnipeg and later enjoyed performing violin with Ottawa’s A’Chord East orchestra. He also had a deep appreciation for vintage cars and, as a young man, built his own hot rod.

A celebration of Bob's life will take place on Friday, January 24, 2025, at Annunciation of the Lord Parish, located at 2414 Ogilvie Rd., Gloucester, ON. Mass, in the presence of his ashes, will be held at 11:00 a.m., with a reception to follow.

In Bob's memory, donations may be made to Annunciation of the Lord Parish or a cause close to your heart, such as education or music initiatives.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 18, 2025