ABBOTT, Robert Chesley "Bob"

Died peacefully at the age of 93 while in palliative care in Dartmouth General Hospital on December 11, 2020. Robert (Bob as everyone called him) was one of seven children born to Thomas and Margaret (Mullett) Abbott in Wesleyville, N.L., in 1927. In 1950, he married Florence L. Morris, Port aux Basques, N.L., and raised sons, Robert (Helen Jesty) and Glen (Annette Daley). In 1943, Bob joined the Canadian Merchant Navy sailing in convoys in the allies’ Battle of the Atlantic war efforts of the Second World War. Following the war, he joined Canadian National Railways, later CN Marine and Marine Atlantic and continued to work at sea for much of his career. During this period, he rose through the ranks to be promoted to a vessel’s officer, Chief Steward. Later, he left his career at sea to accept the position on shore of Superintendent of Marine Atlantic, Atlantic Region where he was responsible for all passenger catering services for the region. During this stage of his career, he studied Hotel Restaurant Management at Attica University in New York. He traveled throughout Europe for Marine Atlantic seeking out and arranging for vessels to be acquired for use in the various locations in Atlantic Canada but mainly for the service between Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador. Throughout life, his interests included time in the outdoors, the beauty of nature, gardening, fishing, long walks with his dog(s), friendships, and time with his family. In retirement a passionate hobby emerged, model sailing boat building. He even made several sailing vessels in bottles. His model boats have been acquired by admirers of his craft as far away as Switzerland. Bob was community minded and an active volunteer. He was a longtime member and President of the Rotary Club in North Sydney. In addition, he organized and participated in many other community fundraising campaigns for those in need. Bob’s greatest achievement was being a devoted husband and a beloved father. And while he will be deeply missed, the most cherished memories of a long and fulfilling life will not. He is survived by his wife, Florence; sons, Robert and Glen; sister, Melveen (Dale Dunham), Beavercreek, Ohio; granddaughter, Lauren Daley Abbott, whom he cherished; predeceased by sister, Annie; brother, Jack; sister, Kathleen; sister, Oliver; brother, Max; and nieces and nephews; Cremation has occurred. Special thanks to the staff at Dartmouth General Hospital for their wonderful and compassionate care during this difficult time. A private family service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the SPCA, Nature Conservancy of Canada or any food bank. Online condolences may be made by visiting: www.atlanticfuneralhomes.com Dartmouth Chapel.