September 12, 1935 – November 21, 2022
Passed away in the early morning hours of November 21, 2022 at St. Peter’s Hospital at the age of 87. Loving father to Terry DeCola and Patricia Parkinson (Adrian). Dearest grandfather (Papa) to Andy DeCola (Leanne Chalecki) and Cindy DeCola (Sean Fallon) and very proud great-grandfather to Ben, Chloe, Max and Charlotte. Predeceased by his parents John and Margaret Griffin, his wife Emma, son-in-law Joe, and siblings David, Jack and Shirley. Bob was a machinist by trade and obtained his apprenticeship at Bertrams in Dundas and then went to work at Stelco in Hamilton and retired after 40 years of service. Anyone who knew Dad was well aware that he loved to talk ‘shop’ and said he was lucky to have a job that he enjoyed. He kept active in his retirement meeting up for coffee with his fellow retirees and continued to attend Union meetings. He always kept himself busy and was given the nickname “Beaver” early in his working career which suited him well. Despite many health issues over the years, he remained positive until the end. Dad spent the last year at Bertram Retirement Home and was very happy there especially having all his meals prepared for him! Thank you to Cyndi Maracle and all the staff for doing such a wonderful job in caring for our Dad. A special thank you to Dr. L. Coren for her care and compassion over the years. Thanks to Dr. Hira Mian at the Juravinski Cancer Centre for your care. Lastly, thanks to the staff in the Palliative Care Unit, 3East at St. Peter’s hospital. The staff in this unit are special people that show patience and kindness with each and every patient. We thank you for caring for our father during his last days. Friends will be received by the family on Friday, November 25, 2022 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm at the Turner Family Funeral Home, 53 Main St., Dundas. The family requests that masks be worn to the visitation. Cremation has taken place. If you so wish, donations to Hamilton Health Sciences (St. Peter’s Hospital Foundation) would be appreciated by the family.
I remember clearly as I did at the time at Stelco that to this man all his co-workers mattered in the way he listened And that smile !
Deepest condolences to his caretaking daughters, grandson and granddaughter and their spouses and great grandkids. Caring for someone on their final journey is a mark of deep love and caring…while your grief is great, may your memories be a blessing.
So sorry to hear about Bob’s passing. He was a very kind and gentle man. Bob was a true trade unionist and rarely missed a SOAR meeting before COVID, a demonstration, picket line or an union meeting. He was a true believer in social justice. Our sincere sympathy on Bob’s passing. May be rest in peace.