March 21, 1936 – September 14, 2021 (age 85)
Bob Thompson peacefully passed away at the I.O.O.F. home in Barrie at the age of 85 after a brave battle with dementia. Bob is remembered by his wife Joyce (Trefry), sons Jeffrey (Patricia) & Steven (Joletta), grandchildren Jared, Avery, Jazzlin, Colton, Reece and Emlyn. Predeceased by his sister Helen (Jack) Forsyth.
Bob was born in Barrie, attended King Edward Public School and Barrie Central Collegiate. Bob was very active in the percussion section of the Central Band and had many fond memories playing for Dr. W.A. Fisher. Bob excelled as a running back on the football field for Central and would inspire chants of “Hank the tank” as he rumbled down the field with the ball. He attended Ryerson in 1957/58, played on the Ryerson Rams football team and was invited to the Toronto Argonauts camp but declined in order to pursue a career. In 1960 Bob was hired as a police officer in the Town of Innisfil.
In 1965 Bob was hired as a constable by the Barrie City Police. Bob’s policing career was defined by his commitment to service in the community. Bob spent 12 years in the school unit and was a pioneer with such initiatives as safety patrollers and bike rodeos. Bob completed his policing career managing police operations at the Barrie Courthouse and was always proud of the men and women that he served with. Bob attained the rank of Staff Sergeant and retired after 36 years of policing in 1996.
Bob was always active in the community through St. George’s Anglican Church as a Warden and Choir member, King Edward Choir, Barrie County Chordsmen (Barbershop), OPP Chorus, RVH volunteer (9 years), umpiring baseball, and refereeing both high school football and men’s flag football.
The following are some selected words from Bob that he delivered as class leader at the Ontario Police College “We leave tomorrow and carry with us many thoughts and ideas for positive change. We will meet resistance, but a certain amount of resistance, like stress, is a help to achieve a purpose or goal. Remember, kites rise against the wind, not with it.”
The family would like to offer its sincerest gratitude to the I.O.O.F. for the compassionate care provided to Bob during the past few years.
Bob was tremendously proud and supportive of his family. He will be greatly missed but not forgotten.
If desired, memorial donations may be made to the I.O.O.F. or a charity of your choice.