It is with great sadness that we announce that Robert William Slater peacefully passed away on Friday February 10 surrounded by his family. Robert burst into this life as a New Years Baby on January 1, 1941 at his home at 7 Jubilee Terrace, Brockham, Surrey, England to Ruth (Barker) and Robert Slater sr. His has since celebrated every single year always living life to the fullest. Those who knew him, knew him to be larger than life, an avid prankster, and always quick to tell a funny story (with “some” embellishment!) and to love those around him deeply. He survived his childhood in England during the war times with a fabulous group of friends, who would stay in contact for life. Their lives sounded like a continuous episode of the Little Rascals. Many adventures were had! He was “Slats”. His friends were Pud, Titch, and Snitch. They still relive those times with much laughter and love. Robert became a tool and die apprentice at 16. Later in life, he became a Precision Engineer contributing to projects for the Concorde or other Royal Airforce jets. Riding bikes, building bikes, fixing bikes, cleaning bikes has always been a passion of Robert’s, encouraged by his own dad, who also rode. He built his first bike at 15 years. He rode both trials and motor cross until a severe back injury from motorcross sidelined him. He continued to love and ride trials competitively up until his 82nd birthday. He would have ridden again this year, but life had other plans. Dad loved riding in District 4 of New York State. He also competed once a year returning to England to ride in the Blue Beards and Grey Beards trials. He made many wonderful friends and mentored many younger riders. He will be missed, and will miss, his trials friends.
Robert met the love of his life, Heather Callaby, when he was a young man. It was instant love. They were married in a small wedding Feb 8, 1969. They honeymooned at a motor cross that Robert rode in. Two years later they were blessed with their daughter, Sarah. Robert spent countless loving hours raising his daughter. He showed her how to ride a bike and motorcycle, ride in a side car, fix a car, and most importantly he instilled in her a love for sports and animals. He coached Sarah’s soccer team in Rockwood for many years, influencing countless young players. He eventually received the Governor General’s award for volunteering. Sarah eventually married an avid baseball player (perhaps not Bob’s favourite sport, but he grew to appreciate it!) named Dan Mendham. Two grandchildren, David and Abigail, that followed were blessed to call Robert their grandad or “G”. They adored their “G” and he adored them. In keeping with everyone’s love of sports, David took the baseball route and plays for Oklahoma State University and Abbie played soccer. Robert used his tool and die expertise to make baseball bats for David and later began his small business, Baseline Bats.
Robert was also an avid gardener. Their garden was their pride and joy. Many hours were spent outside gardening with the love of his life and numerous pets by their sides. Robert loved animals. They always had many pets around the house. If you are inclined to donate, Robert asks that you donate to an animal charity in his name.
Robert lived life to the fullest with joy, humour and love. He sends his love to all his friends and family in Canada, America and England.
He has ridden his last loop with grace. God speed, Bob Slater. Ride On…..