It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert Edward Richardson on June 19, 2025, in Victoria, British Columbia, with his loving sister, Janet Richardson, by his side. Robert, also known as “Bob” or “Boomer” to his closest friends and family, was born on May 5, 1947. He will be sorely missed by his sister Janet, partner Jan, nieces Julie and Angie, nephew Nick, great-niece Morgan and great-nephews Lucas and Ryan, and his sweet cat named Mouse. His death was preceded by the deaths of his mother, father, and his brother Jimmy.
From a young age, Robert marched to the beat of his own drum. He was a born musician, able pick up and learn any instrument in a couple of hours. He left his birthplace of Ottawa, Ontario as a teenager to join the Canadian Air Force Naden Band. He travelled the world with the Air Force band and found his true home in Victoria, British Columbia.
In his long life Robert wore many hats. In Victoria he was known as the best bassist in town and played in blues, jazz, and rock bands with some of the greatest players of his time. He taught music for over 35 years, offering lessons at Nelson’s Music, Tempo Trend, and from his own home. He touched the lives of hundreds of young musicians with his patience, kindness, and love of music. He also played in the Victoria Symphony Orchestra for several years. Beyond his musical talents, Robert was also a fantastic chef; he worked at several restaurants over the years, and managed a pub restaurant for a time. In his last job before he retired, Robert enjoyed being the produce supervisor at Wellburn’s Grocery Store.
Throughout his life, friends and family knew Robert to be strong-willed and independent, free-spirited and always curious about the world around him. Beneath his cool, witty exterior, Robert was kind-hearted and could be counted on to have a funny turn of phrase to encapsulate just about any situation. He had a grounded way of looking at the world that he shared with those closest to him. He loved animals, and had a number of beloved cats and dogs over the years, including Mouse, Lil Bum, Big and Little, Shay and Rumpet. We hope his soul dog, Shay, was there to meet him when he crossed over to the other side.
At Robert’s request, there will be no funeral service. It won’t surprise those who knew Robert to learn that his wishes were uncomplicated and cut to the core of what matters most. His sister, Janet, and a couple of his closest friends will scatter his ashes at Horseshoe Bay in Beacon Hill Park, which was one of Robert’s favourite places in Victoria. We encourage everyone who knew and loved Bob to think of him as you listen to “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues” by Elton John, and celebrate his life in your own way.
We love you Bob and you will be so deeply missed. Across the country or on the other side of life, we hope you know that we carry you in our hearts always. Source: Julie G
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