Lee, Robert James
Funeral Services for Robert James Lee
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert (Bob) James Lee, age 85, who passed away peacefully on May 25th, 2024, at 8:45pm in Mississauga, Ontario.
Bob was born on August 27th , 1938, in Toronto. He was the beloved husband of Diane, cherished and loving father of Michelle, Michael and Allyson, loving and welcoming father-in-law to Frank, Tina and Ken, and a loving Grandfather to 5 grandchildren, Laura, Jack, Katherine, Charlotte, and Cameron.
Bob was known for his quick sense of humour, his many adventures with family and friends, his love of travel and James Bond movies.
Bob dedicated many years to the field of education, serving as the Director of Education for the Peel District School Board. His commitment to fostering a positive learning environment and improving educational standards has left a lasting impact on countless students, educators, and the community and country at large.
Bob’s passion for the betterment of education wasn’t limited to Peel. He was also a founding member of a national education organization known as ERDI Canada. The core value of which was establishing meaningful dialogue between business and education leaders across the country.
In addition to his contributions to education, Bob was a passionate sailor and served as the Commodore for the Etobicoke Yacht Club from 1997-1998. He was an active board member from 1993 – 2021. His leadership and enthusiasm for sailing enriched the lives of many club members and brought joy to all who knew him.
Bob was an avid hiker, spending a great deal of his time with Diane hiking the many trails throughout Ontario and abroad. He was actively involved in the preservation of the Bruce Trail and served as the President of the Board.
He will be deeply missed by his loving family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives he touched.
‘A life well lived is a lasting inspiration.’
Funeral Information
A Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 11th , 2024 from 6:30-8:30pm.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, June 12th , 2024, at 11:00am, the service will begin at 11:30am. Refreshments will follow.
Location
Both services will be at St. John’s Dixie Cemetery and Crematorium, 737 Dundas Street East, Mississauga, Ontario, L4Y 2B5
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Diabetes Canada in Bob’s memory: Robert James Lee Donation Page
For any inquiries or condolences, please contact Michael Lee at [email protected]
Sailing Home
Upon the waters calm and wide, He sets his sail, our gentle guide, To horizons where the sky meets sea, Where peace and love forever be.
A captain strong, with wisdom deep, Through life’s vast ocean, he did sweep, With steady hand and heart so true, He led us all, his crew, his crew.
The stars above now light his way, As he sails to the break of day, In endless seas of tranquil blue, His spirit soars, his journey new.
No storm could shake his steadfast grace, No waves could drown his warm embrace, A lighthouse bright, he shone so clear, His legacy, forever near.
In softest winds, his whispers hear, In every tide, his presence near, Though far he sails beyond our sight, His love remains, a beacon bright.
So let us not with sorrow weep, For he has found his peaceful sleep, In sailing skies where angels roam, Our father, now, is sailing home.
As a colleague, Bob was second to none. I was privileged to have his friendship and support in the Director of Ed role. In so many ways and long after his retirement from the role he continued to influence and support. My sincere condolences to each of you in your grief
Sincerely
Marguerite
So sorry to hear of Bob’s passing . Working for him at Earnscliffe was such a fun time and a great experience. Sincere condolences to Diane and family
I was very sad to learn of Bob’s passing. He hired me to my first position with the Peel Board, at Earnscliffe Sr.P. S. Bob was a great principal to work for, and encouraged me to take the steps to become one myself. My sincere condolences go to Diane and all the Lee family.
Growing up on Lexicon and going to school with Michelle there are so many fond memories of your family. My sincere condolences on the loss you must be feeling. Your good memories and the love you all share will be a blessing. My heart is with you.
Diane, Michelle, Michael, Allyson, although it has been so many years since we have got together I have so many fond memories of our families gathering at the lake. Bob was such a bigger than life person, so warm, so kind, so personable, he always made you feel special when he was speaking with you. I’m very sorry that I won’t be able to make it down for the visitation or the service but I wanted to let you know just how much I appreciate those memories and how much I appreciated your dad/husband. Please accept my deepest condolences.
Our sincere sympathy to you, Diane, and your lovely family.
We have fond memories of talks and laughs, when you lived on our street. He will be missed but not forgotten. Bob’s love for you and the family will live on. May he rest in peace.
Diane and Family, I am so sorry to hear of your beloved Robert passing away. You are all in my thoughts and wish you comfort. I know a few people that worked with him at Peel Board and know he was greatly admired.
Hugs,
Lindsay
Kim and I send our condolences to the Lee family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you grieve Bob’s passing!
Dom/Kim Scuglia
Diane and family,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your beloved Robert and I have several friends who worked with both of you for the Peel Board of Education who thought very highly of him. My deepest sympathy to you all.
Lindsay
Diane and family, I am so sorry to hear of your beloved husband, father and grandfather’s passing. I am friends with several former Peel School board members and teachers and they always spoke highly of him.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Lindsay
Dear Diane and Family: Our sincere condolences go out to you at this difficult time. Although it has been many years since we have connected I have many good memories of our time at Roselands school in the City of York God bless.
I grew up on Lexicon Dr and was a neighbour of the Lee family. My heart felt condolences to the Lee family
My deepest condolences to the Lee family. I got to know Bob at ERDI where it was evident that he was a passionate and visionary leader in public education. His enthusiasm for improving our schools was infectious. May he rest in peace.
My deepest sympathies to the Lee family. Bob was a visionary leader in public education at the local, provincial and national levels. It was at ERDI where I got to know Bob. His dedication and energy to build a stronger and better education system was ever preaent and infectious. Rest in peace.
My condolences to the Lee family. Bob was a true mentor for many educators. His positive attitude and genuine caring for students set an example for all. I only knew Bob through ERDI and his passion for the organization was evident at every gathering.
My sincere condolences for your loss. Honoured to have shared many pleasant moments with a genuine gentleman.🙏
Dear Michael and Family;
On behalf of Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board please accept my deepest condolences on the passing of your Father. The Lord is caring and gentle, sharing the burdens of those who mourn. May He give you the gifts of comfort and peace during this difficult time.
Blessings,
Frances Bagley
Director of Education