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Bob Hamlin

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REV. ROBERT PAUL (BOB) HAMLIN

March 25, 1931 – January 30, 2026

It is with great sadness and with gratitude for a life well lived, that the family announces that Bob died at the age of 94 at St Boniface Hospital, on January 30, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.


For 66 years, Bob was the cherished husband of Ellen; and the father of Bill (Sharon), David (Dawn), Stephen (Yvonne); and grandfather to Brianna, Cole, Rachel, Lucas, Mya, Marissa, Parker, Magnus; and great grandfather to Kai, and precious newborn baby Ruby. Bob was predeceased by his father William, mother Hulda; brothers, Bud and Tom; sisters, Barbara and Toots; brother-in-law J.D, as well as mother-in-law Runa and father-in-law Arnor and baby Hal Thorgilsson.


Bob spent his early years in Benson, Saskatchewan. A lover of stories, he fascinated his family with tales of those early days – of being part of a pioneer community and enjoying the freedom of a boy on the prairies. At the age of 17, he joined the Royal Canadian Engineers and spent 8 years in various Canadian locations, serving as an architectural and electrical draftsman. Those years honed his interest in planning, building and problem solving. He was discharged in 1956, and then enrolled in the Faculty of Arts at United College, earning a BA and later a Masters of Theology. After ordination in 1963, Bob was first placed in Red Lake, Ontario, with subsequent callings to United Churches in Roblin, Winnipeg (Home Street, Maryland and John Black Memorial). He also served for several years in administration with Winnipeg Presbytery. Throughout his career, his message was always one of love, acceptance, and the wondrous gift of God’s grace. He retired in 1995.


Bob, Ellen and family enjoyed many decades at their beloved Dogtooth Lake cottage, spending time with friends and family and making memories to last a lifetime. At the lake, Bob put his acts of worship into every ordinary task. He loved feeding and watching the birds, and engaging in humorous battles with those pesky squirrels. Repairs and renovations were always on the agenda.


Bob was always keenly aware of political issues and was a staunch advocate for tolerance, peace and social justice. He helped everyone he encountered through major and minor life issues. He did so through his wisdom, keen sense of humour and selflessness. He was always authentic and his love was unconditional. He leaves a legacy of kindness and love.


Sincerest thanks for the loving support of many including the Kenyons, Debbie, and beloved brother-in-law Fred Thorgilsson and family.


A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on February 19, 2026, at Immanuel United Church in Winnipeg. Please consider a memorial donation to Immanuel United Church or Siloam Mission.


ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

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Elaine & Don McPherson

February 19, 2026 at 10:49 AM

We are thinking of you Aunt Ellen, Bill, Dave, Stephen & your families, honouring the life you built as a family. May the bond you shared continue on in your memories. We will always love & remember Uncle Bob. Wish we could be with you today and share our depest condolences.

 

Michele Kines

February 18, 2026 at 11:53 PM

Rev. Hamlin was our minister in Roblin and he and his family are remembered fondly by many of us. The manse was just down Hopsital St from my parent's home (Hugh and Helena Kines) so we were 'neighbours' as well. Condolences to Ellen and family.

Patricia Hamlin

February 12, 2026 at 8:45 PM

Deepest and heartfelt condolences to Aunt Ellen, Bill, Dave and Stephen and their families. Uncle Bob (my Dad's (Tom Hamlin)'s youngest brother will be much missed. He filled the room with tremendous joy - those sparkle eyes. Our family always looked forward to visits with Uncle Bob and Aunt Ellen which included many stories and much laughter. I wish I could be there for the Celebration of Life as it is a good and long life to celebrate. Sending much love❤️ Patricia Hamlin

Doug & Laureen McPherson

February 12, 2026 at 4:53 PM

We have fond memories of Uncle Bob, when my future wife met my family many years ago it was a memorable experience that Uncle Bob had a hand in grilling her as to what her intentions were for the future. We then were able to have him take part in our marriage vows. He was always an interesting conversationalist with a good sense of humour. We were fortunate enough to have a vist with Uncle Bob and Aunt Ellen about a year ago, we will treasure those memories. Our sympathies go to the entire family. He will be missed.

John Wesley Oldham

February 11, 2026 at 7:49 PM

I started ministry in Roblin Mb in 1969, following Bob. I appreciated

his wit and wisdom at regional church meetings. Try this verse

to the Danny Boy tune as I think the mess-sage fit's Bob's story,

"We face our death with faith and hope and promise

that we are part of the Creator's plan.

We are sustained to greet in peace our dying

as we prepare to greet the promised land.

We travel on into the new day dawning.

We grieve and grow through woundedness and pain,

We rise to greet the challenge of tomorrow

while we affirm our steadfast love, let faith remain."

 

Jeanette and Garry Kirk

February 11, 2026 at 1:22 PM

Sending our thoughts of sympathy to all of the Hamlin family on the loss of your special husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather and great grandfather and friend to many. We enjoyed visiting with Bob at family gatherings. Our thoughts are with all of you at this sad time..

 

Emily Mathias

February 10, 2026 at 8:25 PM

Thinking of Uncle Bob's family at this time. Uncle Bob was my grandpa Tom Hamlin's youngest brother and I have great memories of him and Aunt Ellen. Sending love and light ❤️✨

Ellen & Bob Kruger

February 8, 2026 at 11:12 PM

Dear Ellen,

I send you our deepest condolences for your loss of dear Bob. My Bob & I think of you often, as we walk by "the Hamlins". You were such warm & wonderful neighbours to us new ones on the block. You were so kind & loving to our Tim & Lia. I'm glad to read that Bob continued on with a fine life. I send you, Bill, David, & Stephen, & all your family our wishes for peace & contentment as you begin to heal & enjoy the warmth of memories of the wonderful Bob Hamlin. Fondly, Ellen & Bob Kruger

Dean McPherson

February 8, 2026 at 8:49 PM

Ellen, Bill, David & Stephern and family. As a child at various family functions I was always entertained by Great Uncle Bob, a personality that was larger than life. I remember him as a manufacturer of laughter and had a knack for bringing it out of anyone that was within earshot! May all your fond memories comfort you in this time of loss.

Kathy Couch

February 8, 2026 at 7:02 PM

My precious Uncle Bob. The embodiment of love; he gave, he served, he taught, he cared, he cherished loved ones, he sacrificed, he mentored, and he shared his wisdom. But his gift of looking at things with fun and laughter was immeasurable. He touched countless people with his humble, gentle kindness. Bob Hamlin was the real deal. If you were fortunate enough to be in this man's sphere, you can't help but be better for it. I miss him, wonderfully, because I was one of the lucky ones.
It was time for him to go home, but I know he did it in sock feet, with shoes tucked under his arm. I miss him already, but will love and treasure him forever and always. Sending so much love to family and friends. Keep your pecker up. That's exactly what he would want.



Bob and Muriel Kenyon

February 8, 2026 at 1:47 PM

We extend our sympathies to Ellen, the family and to all who have been touched by this special person. In thinking of him, our words are the kid from Benson, Sask., ordinary, profound, witty, real, inclusive, a valued participant at Study group, selfless, a listener,, humble and special. We were blessed with his and Ellen's friendship over many years. We value our memories, especially, "How are you, Bob." And his response was, " I'm lovely." And indeed he was.

Tony and Pat Kennett

February 7, 2026 at 12:07 PM

We're so sorry for your loss. With our deepest sympathy.

 

Carol Nikkel

February 7, 2026 at 8:38 AM

Fond memories of Bob, he and my mom, Rose Ferries, worked together at John Black. He baptized my boys. I remember when he turned 64 and my mom played that Beatles song for him in church. My condolences.

Melane Mouallem

February 6, 2026 at 5:59 PM

Uncle Bob was such an epic human being. The depth of his character was limitless. He was comical and witty, philosophical and theological, blue collar and white collar (literally), and one of the kindest, most selfless people I've known. He could make a person laugh, or help them cry - whatever the situation called for; he was gifted at both ends of the spectrum (and all points in between). Needless to say, he was a very special person, who left a beautiful imprint on my life and the lives of countless others. He will be so missed and so lovingly remembered...

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