ROBERT ALLAN FORBES

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ROBERT ALLAN FORBES

With incredible sadness, the family announces the passing of Robert Allan Forbes (Bob) at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Science Centre on September 5, 2026 at the age of 73.

Bob was born on January 29, 1953 in Pilot Mound, Manitoba to loving parents, Reg and Clara Forbes. He was raised in Brandon, Manitoba.

At a young age, he excelled at many sports as well as developing a love for hunting and fishing and the outdoors.

He attended Lakehead University where he received a Degree in Forestry in 1977.

While in university, Bob met the love of his life, Sue (nee Fregeau) and they married in 1976.

Following graduation, Bob and Sue moved to Longlac, Ontario where they raised their sons, Trevor and Curtis. Bob began his career with Kimberly Clark as a production foreman at Camp 55, and rose through many positions to become Director of Forest Management.

His dedication to forestry was a reflection of the passion and respect he had for nature as a whole and this was instilled in his sons.

Later, he held a consulting advisor role in which he was able to continue his passion of ensuring the long-term sustainability of the boreal forest.

During his 43 years in Longlac, Bob volunteered for several organizations and committees highlighted by his several years of coaching his sons in minor hockey, his contributions to the Kenogamisis Golf Course, the Longest Day of Golf, and Ducks Unlimited, among several others.

After retirement, Bob and Sue followed their sons to Thunder Bay in the summer of 2020, where they could enjoy time with their grandchildren.

They annually wintered in Crystal River, Florida, where they enjoyed time with old friends and new ones.

Bob made friends wherever he went, and was unique in his ability to stay in touch with them. Annually, he enjoyed goose hunting trips with buddies including some from elementary school. His annual golf trips included close friends, and his annual deer hunt with family on Lake of the Woods was another treasured time.

Bob was an incredible gardener, and gave much of the produce to friends and neighbours.

Despite many health challenges, Bob was consistent in strength.

Bob and Sue were fortunate to have recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, in their back yard enjoyed with their children and grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his parents, Reg and Clara, and is survived by wife Sue, his sons, Trevor and Curtis, his five grandchildren: Keely, Brady, Brynlee, Preston, Peyton, and his sister Faye.

Fondly remembered by Sue’s siblings: Jim, Neil, Paul, Sheila, Tom, John, Joe, and by Marnie, Charmaine, Kim, Rick D, Moe, Carly, Rick A, Katie, and his many nieces and nephews. Those who will also feel Bob’s loss are his Aunts Jean and Joan as well as his many cousins in Manitoba.

He will be missed by so many. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Thunder Bay Regional Hospital, Urology Dept. or the Dew Drop Inn.

Consistent with Bob’s wishes, there will be no funeral, but there will be a Celebration of Life in the spring, where we will "raise a glass" together.

As published in Brandon Sun on Sep 12, 2026