John Robert "Bob" MacDonald

Bob MacDonald passed away on January 17, 2021 at the age of 92 years in Trail, BC.

Bob was born and raised in Nelson, BC and as a young man he was referred to as “the busiest man of the Nelson Maple Leafs hockey team.” He acted as trainer, doctor, equipment manager and mother to the Leafs players. The team made championships in 1946-47.

Bob moved and settled in Trail where he was an optometrist at Trail Optical for many years. He quickly developed many close friendships and joined local clubs and organizations as well as team sports. In the summer you could often find him and his pals on the golf course. In the winter he enjoyed curling and skiing. He met his soulmate, Mimi and remained by her side until her passing in June, 2009. The two of them enjoyed many trips across the border and the summers at Christina Lake. It didn’t take long before he showed up at home with a boat. Then all of us kids wanted to go to the North end of the lake even though there was no electricity there!

Bob was gracious and patient with the kids, Gordie, Debbie, Darcy and Renae. He made sure to introduce us to the outdoors, whether it was in the garden or camping in the summer, hiking Mount Roberts in the fall or cross-country skiing in the winter.

Once the kids grew up and Bob became a Grampa to Sasha, Christopher, Mellisa, Kayla, Correy and Alex, he gave his time readily.

Shortly after Mimi’s passing Bob moved into Chateau Manor where he lived until he became unable to live independently. He had a brief stay at the Kaslo Victorian Centre until his return to Trail at Poplar Ridge.

Bob was a warm and outgoing man that gave so much to so many. With his witty personality, he would say, “He’s gone golfing.”

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Wilson, Dr. Knox and the nursing staff in Kaslo and Trail as well as to Bob’s long-time special friend, Gwen.

There will be no service at this time due to COVID restrictions. A Memorial Service will be planned and announced at a later date.

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