ROBERT "BOB" CECIL PAYNE

Peacefully, after several years of optimism and courage in the face of heart health challenges, Robert (Bob) Cecil Payne has gone onward to track the trail ahead.

Bob is survived by his wife Barbara Brouwers, of 37 years; daughter Sarah Lefebvre (Jeff); grandson Jentje Lefebvre; and daughter Emily Payne. He will be lovingly remembered by siblings, Barbara Muriel Payne, James (Jim) Albert Payne, and Roberta Lynn Demchuk; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Bob's passing has come as a sad surprise to many neighbours and cherished friends.

Bob was born in Dauphin, December 26, 1946 to Barbara Ellen (nee Inkster) and William Cecil Payne. He grew up on the family farm west of Dauphin. Bob attended Sandringham School, followed by Dauphin High School, graduating in 1964.

Bob moved across the province in 1966 to work at Atomic Energy of Canada Limited, and made the town of Pinawa his home. in October of 1983, Bob married his sweetie Barbara Brouwers, and their daughters were born in 1986, and 1990. Of all his adventures, starting a family was his favourite one. Bob would often travel back to home to help with the farm, girls in tow.

After retiring from AECL in 1998, Bob went the entrepreneurial route and started 'Clip & Chip' in 1999, a tree felling and chipping business. Tree removal would ultimately expand to include general landscaping, demolition, and beyond, earning him a reputation as the town handyman. Regardless of where from, everyone knew who 'Bob Payne' was and at some point in time would have been able to come to him for help or advice.

Throughout his life, Bob loved being active; from racing sailboats, paddling canoes and backcountry camping, to captaining a power boat and learning how to water ski. Bob played badminton, was a backcatcher for fastball games, and taught both figure skating and power skating. Bob enjoyed cross country and alpine skiing. He had a passion for curling as a 'life-time sport', which he continued to pursue for many years, even despite health setbacks.

Community building efforts were intrinsic to Bob. He was often involved in roles that supported many of the activities that made the town of Pinawa, including ice making (curling), teaching skating, refereeing hockey and helping to maintain cross country ski trails. As his children grew up, he often welcomed a rotation of neighbourhood kids interested in waterskiing and tubing onto the power boat.

Bob's farm roots conditioned him to rise early and work hard. Despite numerous projects on the go, time was always made for those who asked for his help. Bob had a unique ability to make friends with just about anyone; from neighbours, to teammates, to coworkers, to the hospital custodian in Whitefish MT, to health care aids in Winnipeg MB who were excited to show him pictures of their plants. Throughout his life, his charm was less charisma, and more a genuine interest in getting to know the stories of other people.

Bob was happiest in the outdoors, and had an intangible respect for nature. His love for long walks began early, setting off in the wrong direction to bring the cattle home as a boy. Walking the trails around Pinawa continued throughout his life.

Bob lived for the day, and looked forward to the next. A true problem solver, and a practical lifetime learner, he took on challenges with the earned confidence of being able to figure things out. Bob was not one to keep still, ever, his farm roots resurfaced late in life as he kept busy with the garden on Henderson Hwy, tilling and tractor maintenance.

As the reality of his absence sinks in, reflecting on just who Bob was brings to mind so much about a man who often said so little. He was a hardworker, who honoured his word and offered his best. He was a good neighbour, who was counted on by many. He was a friend, who offered a positive outlook and a standing invite. He was a husband, who exemplified commitment and teamwork. Above all, he was a "Dad", complete with Dad jokes and Dad fashion, and was forever proud of his family.

In the last hours of his final day Earthside, Bob wondered if he would be remembered. Whether it's as a Payne in the phonebook, a pain in the neck, or the kind of Payne that comes when remembering someone who has left a little too soon, Bob Payne will absolutely be remembered. He leaves behind just as many memories as those will remember him.

A riverside service will be held in Pinawa, on August 18th, at the Sailing Club. Gathering at 10:30am. Service to follow. All those who are able are invited to attend. Mask use is welcomed.

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In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Momenta, or to the upkeep of your local Trails system.

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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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