Born in Tuebingen, Germany (Federal Republic) on Dec 31, 1951, passed away quietly in his home in Sault Ste. Marie on Friday, May 6, 2022.
“Bob” as he was affectionally known, was born of the marriage of Fritz and Wilhelmina Adams who moved to Canada in 1953, landing in Quebec. Bob was 2 years old at the time. He had a sister Ruth but we have no knowledge of her location or if she predeceased her brother. When his parents eventually settled in Sudbury, their family home burnt to the ground. Bob was 7 years old and all of his immigration papers were destroyed including his birth certificate.
Over the years, Bob never replaced his birth certificate but managed to get a Social Insurance number in order to work. His father worked at Inco in Sudbury but also had a small repair shop for marine motors in Lively, where Bob gained some experience with small engines. In March 1981, he was employed by Esquire Honda as a small engine mechanic and eventually a licenced motorcycle technician. Bob was said to be the best “small engine mechanic” around as he could listen to a motorcycle engine and know exactly what was wrong with it, before even looking at it. Bob was loved by all, for his gentle manners and his joyful, giggling laugh. He never missed a Christmas party nor a staff BBQ and was always willing to help anyone needing a hand. He rode his bicycle to work every day, rain, snow or shine but would always welcome a ride from a fellow worker if offered.
In 2014, the staff at Great Lakes Honda set out to get him a Health Card should he need any medical care and at the same, made the application for his Canadian Citizenship. After 2 years of filling out government forms and applications, Bob officially received his Canadian Citizenship Certificate in the mail on January 26, 2016. We had a nice celebration for him at work and after 38 years of service, he finally retired in July 2019. His co-workers kept in touch with him during this retirement, always inviting him to our BBQ’s and providing him with a cell phone should anything happen. He will be missed by all his co-workers at Great Lakes Honda and his good friend and neighbour, Russel who took care of him for the last few years. A private graveside service will be held at Greenwood Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. East 705-759-2522).