A place to share our comments and memories of Robert aka Bob.
Memories
The Beauty of Love: Embracing Grandness in Life
Life is fleeting. It’s a mere spark in the vastness of the universe, but within its brevity lies the potential for immense joy and fulfillment. And at the core of this beautiful journey, love stands tall, offering us an unparalleled sense of grandness.
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May 12, 2024
I met Bob as a student at Western in the early 90s. We were building a national student entrepreneurs organization, ACE-Canada, and Bob was a great support. Bob and I kept in touch for many years when I moved to Toronto and later Ottawa. He certainly has had a big impact on my career and my life. Bob was creative and frank, with a big heart. He will be remembered. – David Barron / [email protected]
May 17, 2024
Viv, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Bob’s generosity & kindness and joie de vivre will be remembered by all who knew him. Please know Rob & I are thinking of you and Bob’s family, wishing you peace and comfort in celebrating a life so well lived. Cyd Vandenberg & Robert Van Orman
May 17, 2024
Bob will be missed by Wanda Sinclair, Mike Chard and Elizabeth Chard. He was a kind, caring man with a great sense of humour, and we were better for knowing him. At times like this, words are not enough……
May 18, 2024
Dear Coffey famil y I regret not being to attend the service for Bob who I knew as the big brother of my school friend Marilyn Bob, you were my friend, my mentor, and a guiding light in my career. You listened, took time to understand, and were always genuine in your approach. I learned more from you than I could have asked for or imagined. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. I only wish we had more time. Rahi
May 18, 2024
My deepest condolences Vivienne and to your family. I have always remembered what a wonderful surprise it was for me when you and Bob invited me to the going away party that you had for Barb. Bob will be missed by so many both in his business life and his private life. My condolences as well to you Randall and your family. Betty Cope
May 18, 2024
Condolences to the family especially my schoolmate at St. Paul’s, Marilyn. I hope you will be in Toronto for the funeral Liz (Grywin) Lambert
May 18, 2024
He was always creative. I will never forget, when I was a second year auditor, Bob saying “I love inventories!” And encouraging us to “study the general ledger”. Those insights changed my perspective and were highly useful throughout my entire career. Thanks Bob.
May 18, 2024
I was sorry to read of Bob’s death this morning. He was a good friend and fraternity brother of my late husband, Jack Donaghy, at McGill in Montreal in the 1950s. He was also one of the ushers at our wedding in June 1958. My sincere condolences to his family. Phyllis Donaghy
May 18, 2024
A man to remember! Bob was a true Mulmurian neighbour for many years as well as a trusted friend often sharing his wisdom and expertise when asked for help to resolve what I considered to be an unsolvable problem. He was known as “The Coach” for good reason. Good times shared at Coffey Grounds during years gone by will be fondly remembered by me. Adieu Robert. My sincere and heartfelt condolences to Vivienne and family. Senta
May 18, 2024
Bob was indeed a coach to so many people – his pearls of wisdom have guided me for close to 35 years. Always smiling, always a good word, always professional. He played an integral part in the development of a whole generation, we are blessed to have worked with him. Know that your memories of his love for your family will warm your hearts during this difficult time.
May 18, 2024 – Toronto Star
Thank you, Vivienne for the excellent care you gave to my brother. Sincere condolences and love.
Marilyn
May 21,2024
Bob Coffey mentored me when I started doing mergers & acquisitions over 36 years ago. We miss him already.
May 23, 2024
Dear Coffey famil y I regret not being to attend the service for Bob who I knew as the big brother of my school friend Marilyn Coffey (Hedstrom) St. Paul’s Academy, Westmount Quebec . In those days, he was “ the big brother” so we didn’t connect much. However I spent many hours in that house and cherished my friendship with Marilyn. So it is to the family I send. My condolences , especially to Marilyn. In the death notice it sounds like he was a loved and good person with a spirit of community. I as sorry for your loss. I would greatly appreciate some information on how to get in touch with Marilyn. Thank you. Elizabeth Lambert (Grywin) 416 543 1853 [email protected]
May 24, 2024
One memory we want to share about Bob is that he likes his ties.
May 24, 2024
I had the pleasure of knowing Bob for over 20 years through Kiwanis. He was a great supporter of the Aktion Club of Toronto.
Stuart McCormack Kiwanis Life Member
May 25, 2024
Dear Vivienne, Neil and I will miss Bob very much, and remember the happy times we all spent together. Our deepest condolences to you ❤️
May 27, 2024
Condolences to Vivienne and the family. Robert and Barbara Sweeney Robert and Barbara Sweeney
May 27, 2024
Dear Vivienne, Elaine and I are deeply saddened to learn of Bob’s passing. It was in the late 1970s that I first became acquainted with Bob. We both treasure the moments the 4 of us spent together. This could be at the Coffey Grounds, visiting you guys in Niagara, wandering through Yorkville in my 1926 Dodge, attending your Casa Loma wedding, or simply enjoying our get-togethers over the years. Bob was not just a friend, but part of my life. Our meetings, though infrequent, always seemed like continuations of our last conversation. I came across the attached photos from the time we met with you guys at your new home in Niagara. They must have been taken around 2001, as that was the date attached to the digital file. The memory of Bob lives on in our hearts. We look forward to seeing you at Bob’s Celebration of Life. Warmest regards. Elaine and Lou
May 28, 2024
Carl and I are heartbroken over your loss, Vivienne. We spent many happy times in NOTL with both you and Bob. We remember Bob’s wisdom and quick wit – always ready with one of his many memorable expressions. Whenever anyone needed a favor or advice, Bob was there. Most of all, we will treasure Bob’s friendship. Our deepest condolences, Carol & Carl Jenkin
May 28, 2024
Dear Vivienne and family. Please find my deepest condolences on the loss of Bob. In the 38 years that I knew him, he was a great mentor to me in my professional and personal life. Thank you for everything “Coach”!
May 28, 2024
Bob Coffey was one of the kindest and wisest men I have ever known. He generously offered his wisdom and support, both personally and professionally, with an immense heart. He never spoke an ill word and always appreciated any effort I made.
As a young entrepreneur, Bob showed genuine fascination and support for my endeavors. I have cherished memories of Bob and Vivian, such as the cold, snowy night I spent fixing their TV and satellite setup after my shift at a retail electronics store. Despite the late hour and challenging conditions, I took it upon myself to resolve the issue because Bob and Vivian’s sincerity and appreciation made them more than deserving of my efforts. I was just a young kid with a new family, trying to hustle and survive. Bob and Vivian’s gratitude, respect, and appreciation for my time and efforts were palpable.
The next day, while I was at work, my wife called to tell me that a man had come to our door with a giant gift basket, complete with a sleigh and Mr. and Mrs. Claus figures, as well as some gifts. It was Bob himself who had made this wonderful gesture of appreciation. It warmed my soul and made me feel special and admired by Bob. I was only a twenty-something kid trying to find his way, yet over the last 20 years, Bob remained eager to help with both family and business matters. Despite the fact that I was just a technician with many dreams and aspirations, his kindness and support will never be forgotten.
Bob’s big heart and willingness to support me inspired me to carry on despite hard times. He was one of the most genuine, wise, and supportive people I’ve ever met, always sharing his experiences to help me navigate my own life. Even though I was just a small-time technician, Bob spoke incredibly highly of me, and his referrals were solid endorsements. This man is worthy of a great legacy, one I could only hope to emulate.
I wish I had one last conversation with him, one last chance to express the gratitude and appreciation that he so naturally embodied. My life has been fraught with hurdles and battles, yet Bob was never fazed. He overlooked shortcomings and consistently reinforced the positive attributes he saw in me. I will forever respect and admire the legacy of Bob Coffey, the “Coach.” I thank him dearly for the positive influence and the big heart he had.
Wayne Wilton
Wired Smart Inc.
May 29, 2024
Dear Vivienne, My thoughts are with you during this difficult time, and I can only imagine what you may be feeling. You and Bob were always so kind, respectful, and appreciative. I am certain that the great man Bob was had much to do with having you by his side. Please know that you both have left a lasting impression on my heart, and Bob’s wisdom and kindness will never be forgotten. With heartfelt sympathy, Wayne Wilton
May 31, 2024
I met Bob at the Toronto Kiwanis Boys and Girls Club while volunteering in the afterschool computer lab program. Bob sought me out while I was there, as he wanted to know “who was this Entrepreneur volunteering so much of his time.” We became fast friends, along with Vivienne … what a wonderful couple. Bob became a business advisor, as I had no business education but was talented when it came to technology and with his suggestions and openness to questions (which I had many) I was able to grow my business .. but it is our friendship that grew the most and I hold dear. I miss his booming voice, his creative genius and soul friendship (though we didn’t use those words.) Bob had a way of seeing to heart of things and people and he shared all that he was from this depth as well. As I held his hand in his last days, many things became clear and the most important I would like to share, was the realization Bob was an unconditional giver, I was certainly a recipient and I hope as people reflect, they may see his generosity more fully and may it be his gift to us. So I raise my scotch, to the man who introduced it to me, one boxing day years ago… rest well and may your next adventure by full of love and grace.
July 02, 2024
My condolences for the passing of a great man. I worked for Bob back in the 80’s, right out of university, with a few other members of the “Coffey Club”. He was a wonderful mentor. Sincerely, Dr. Statia Elliot, University of Guelph
July 27, 2024 – Toronto Star
Bob was an active and engaged member of the Canadian Association of Management Consultants. As GTA Chapter Chair, President of the Ontario Institute, and then Chair of the National Board I always looked for and appreciated Bob’s insights and guidance. He will be missed!