RONALD ROBERT BASHAM

With heavy hearts, we announce that Robert (Bob) passed away on March 28, 2023 in Pembina Place  PCH at the age of 85 years.

He is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Ardythe; sons David (Robin), Richard (Kelley). Andrew and Stephen; grandchildren Kelcei (Nick), Kayla and Erik and great-granddaughter Aurora; extended family including his former wife Margaret (mother of David and Richard), and friends and colleagues..

Bob was born and raised in New Orleans. The Crescent City always held a piece of his heart.  He attended Tulane University in New Orleans,  Union Theological Seminary in Richmond Virginia, and ultimately earned his Ph.D. at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill.   He moved to Canada in 1969 to teach philosophy at the University of Manitoba.  A mid-life career change brought diverse experiences, from the CNIB, to the office of the Auditor-General (Manitoba), to Inter-City Gas, finally landing at Wawanesa Insurance, where he served as Chief Internal Auditor until his retirement.

Bob was a man of many interests. He loved to travel and enjoyed discovering new restaurants on his trips as well as at home in Winnipeg.  He was an active Toastmaster for over 20 years and took pride in is two Distinguished Toastmaster medals.  In retirement he had more time for reading favourite authors including Alice Munro and John Le Carre.  He discovered the Fringe Festival  and became an enthusiastic Fringer until Covid robbed us of two seasons.

Ardythe will always be grateful for Bob’s steadfast love and support.  He encouraged her to go back to university to complete her own Ph.D. and was supportive of her choice to be a mostly stay-at-home mom to their two boys.

Bob was proud of all four of his sons and considered himself fortunate to be their father.  He passed on intellectual curiosity and a drive for excellence to all of them.  Andrew once asked him “What made you happy?” and he replied, “Being a father.”   He will be remembered with love.

Over the last decade, Bob struggled with dementia, but was able to retain his independence until early 2021.  After his transition to long term care, his personality remained intact even as his memories faded.  Bob continued to find pleasure in music, favourite photo magazines, and treats, including regular glasses of Taylor Fladgate port supplied by Ardythe.  He was well-liked by the staff at Pembina Place, who respected his independence and appreciated the good manners that never deserted him.

A celebration of his life is being planned. Details will be published on this page when everything is confirmed. In the meantime, Bob’s family kindly requests that his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by watching the photo-biography above. Please, also consider sharing your own photos, memories, and stories using the comment section on this page.

Bob’s family thanks the staff of Pembina Place PCH for their care and attention, particularly in his difficult last weeks.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the United Way or to a school or university of your choice.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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