Robert ‘Bob’ Furlong
August 13, 1956 - July 13, 2023
With very heavy hearts and sadness, we share the news of Bob’s passing on Thursday, July 13, 2023 at LHSC – University Hospital – Palliative Care Unit, 12 years after his diagnosis of early onset Alzheimer’s, which shook our world. It’s been a long goodbye but Bob passed with his family by his side and knowing he was loved beyond words.
He leaves behind his wife and best friend Lynda (née Kennedy). Dear Dad to his three children, Kali (Ryan) Best, Jason (Lindsay) Furlong and Shaun Furlong. He was the proud and special Papa to Peyton, Spencer and Hannah Best; Hudson and Ashton Furlong; and his furry companion, Cooper. His grandkids always brought a smile to his face.
Bob was born in Pembroke, Ontario, son of the late Eldon and Mona Furlong (née Carnegie). He is survived by his three sisters, Colleen (Ross) Johns, Mary Jane (Bob) McConnell, and Katherine (Joel) Nieman. Dear brother-in-law to his ‘fourth sister’ Julie Jenkins, Michael and Patrick Kennedy. Predeceased by his mother-in-law Yvonne Rochon and father-in-law Carl Kennedy. He’ll be fondly remembered by his nieces and nephews as the uncle who loved life, sports, the outdoors, and his guitar, which came out at most family gatherings.
Bob was a Physical Education graduate from the University of Western Ontario, and eventually became the Executive Director of the Fowler Kennedy Sport Medicine Clinic for over two decades. He had the privilege of coordinating medical coverage for the World Transplant Games, Canada Summer Games, and the Ontario Summer Games, to name a few. Bob was a natural athlete who excelled at many sports, particularly baseball, football and hockey. He loved his ‘Axemen’ teammates. Bob enjoyed the outdoors and his annual hunting and fishing trips to Gogama. He cherished his years of coaching, especially with London Junior Knights hockey. He was a trusted coach with a calming influence that the boys could count on.
We are grateful for the support and compassion of Dr. Karen Lo, Ria and the caregivers on the Ivey Lane wing, and all the staff at McGarrell LTC Home since Bob’s admittance in January 2020. We would also like to thank Dr. Andrew Appleton, Dr. Kyra Harris-Schulz and her resident, as well as staff of the Palliative Care unit for their compassion and kindness in supporting Bob in his final days, particularly Wendy, Rachel, Abbey, Baylee and Christine. Special thanks to Chaplain Darrell Shaule.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at Westview Funeral Chapel, 709 Wonderland Road North, London on Friday, July 21, 2023, from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Further services will be held privately.
As an expression of sympathy, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners, 435 Windermere Road, London, ON N5X 2T1 or the Dale E. Creighton Brain & BioBank (DECBB) https://lhsf.donordrive.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=donate.event&eventID=654.
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I would like to echo Shaun’s words, I too am an old hockey buddy and friend that just heard about Bob. I feel very fortunate to have known Bob because he was one of the good ones. My sincere condolences to Lynda and family.
I think there must be a lot of his old hockey friends that, like me, was not aware of his passing. I feel terrible about that as will many others. Very sorry that this note is so late. I was so fortunate to meet and play with Bob on *his* Axemen team which he ran for many years. The Axemen continued to competitively play in a 19+ league probably right up until his diagnosis. The last season, i recall a ref saying to Bob "Is this a father/son game?". Such a decent, likeable, smart and generous guy and great athlete. Always looked forward to my time on and off the ice with Bob. Very late condolences to Lynda and family.
A donation has been made to Alzheimer. Message from the donator: Sincere condolences to you Linda and the Furlong family. He was a true gentleman. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Ken and Eileen
Dear Lynda, Kali, Jason and Shaun, From our entire family, we extend our heartfelt sympathies. Bob was, without question, the most genuine person I have ever met, and while time, distance and the busyness of family, careers and life in general cause people to lose touch, in my heart, Bob remained one of the very best friends. While we both grew up in small neighborhoods on the outskirts west of Pembroke, we really bonded in high school. Our west end connection and love of sports brought us together, but it was Bob’s integrity, his sincerity and his incredible sense of humour that cemented our friendship. If Bob was your friend, then you could honestly say that you had a true friend. We played high school football together, and as many know, Bob was a phenomenal athlete, which was recognized with the award for the Outstanding Senior Male Athlete at Champlain High School. We both moved onto the University of Western Ontario after graduation, two Valley boys helping each other navigate their way through that first year on their own as the small fish in the big pond, but we figured it out. With me in residence and Bob off campus, we spent a lot of time together, both getting to share in each other’s experience. Surviving first year, we rented a house, four Pembroke boys and lad from Sarnia. After filling the place with a used freezer and the cheapest Thrift Shop furniture we could find, we convinced Edna, our landlady, to let us build a “rec room” in her basement, complete with a bar and a fifth bedroom, which Bob claimed for his. Bob was the project’s engineer, the primary chef and handled most of the household finances. I guess we could say, he was the man of the house! It was during this time that Bob met Lynda, and his life was changed forever. The most wonderful guy met the most wonderful girl, and it was perfect. Our friendship continued as Bob graduated and he and Lynda settled in London, and I continued to finish my degree at Western. We stood in each other’s weddings, and to share both experiences with Bob are memories and honours I cherish to this day. While Bob was accomplished in so many areas, what he was proud of most, was his beautiful family. He was first and foremost, devoted to being the best husband and father a family could ask for, and if he could be remembered for just one thing, I’m sure he would be happy if that was the impression he left. Life is never easy and challenges us in so many ways. Bob will be remembered for his strength and courage in the face of the most difficult of them, and as an inspiration to all as we face our own. During this difficult time, be comforted knowing that, while dearly missed, Bob will be forever remembered with genuine warmth and love by all those who were fortunate enough to have known him. Again, to Bob’s family, his grandchildren and his sisters, our sincerest condolences. Terry and Mary Olsheski
My deepest sympathy to Bobs family, I had the privilege to be taught BCLS at UH .by Bob ThenWent on to teach with him at a number of venue including white oaks mall .Bob-was kind very patient a wonderful man. My thoughts are with you all.
Beautiful. Humble. Honest. Loving. Patient. Kind. To Bob: It was the highest honour to be your sister in law. Thank you, thank you, thank you for all the wonderful memories, the awesome hugs, and your love and guidance you gave with me for over 40 years. Rest In Peace now dear Bob. To Kali, Jason, Shaun and my so devoted sister Lynda, and the extended clan: Please accept my deepest and sincere condolences for your great loss which has transpired piece meal over the past decade. It was such a long and painful journey for all of you which you handled with grace, love and bravery. I wish you the peace and healing now you so all deserve from my broken heart to yours you are all forever in my thoughts. xox
It is with much sadness and heavy hearts that Pam and I read today of Bob's illness and premature passing. Both Pam and I went to high school with Bob at Champlain in Pembroke. Pam was an outstanding field athlete as was Bob. Bob was an outstanding javelin thrower despite not really having a coach. He was pretty much self taught and could throw the javelin a country mile. He was a natural. He could also throw a baseball a country mile, and was an excellent pitcher in minor baseball. I played ball against him for several years but I don't recall getting many hits off of him. He was also an excellent football player despite his slender build in high school. Bob was a great competitor, an excellent team mate and was very well liked and respected by his peers. Bob had a natural smile and easy going nature about him but was also a leader who the guys looked up to. We lost track of Bob after high school as we all went our separate ways, but Pam and I are not the least bit surprised to hear of Bob's success in his career and his love and dedication to his family. It was a pleasure knowing and playing sports with Bob many years ago, and we are truly saddened to learn of his passing. Pam and I extend our deepest condolences to his wife Lynda, his children and grandchildren, and to his sisters and extended family. Bob's contributions during his life were significant. He will be missed by many ! RIP Bob.
Dear Lynda, Kali, Jason and Shaun, I'm so sorry for your loss. I wish I could be there this weekend to pay my respects to Bob. Josh always spoke so highly of Bob and would tell me stories of his fun and caring uncle. Sending my my love and prayers to you and your family.
We haven't been in touch since the years we worked at Canada Trust; however on learning of Bob's passing, had to send our heartfelt condolences. Thoughts of sympathy to you and your entire family.
Thinking about my Uncle Bob I can’t help but smile. He didn’t shy away from being a little silly which would always set the tone for our family get-togethers. It seemed like when Uncle Bob was around all the other Aunts, Uncles and parents would let loose. This also meant things were a little less strict so to say for the kids. To us kids, he was like superman. I used to brag to my friends that my uncle could make his boobies dance. Which he could still do well into his 50s. I’m 33 and can only make mine jiggle. He certainly didn’t miss a work out at least during our reunions because we were always lining up to be tossed into the pool. I remember how my Nana used to brag about Uncle Bob and how excited she would get leading up to when he’d come to visit on his way to and from the hunt camp or anytime she’d see him really. I’ll always remember his kindness, his calming demeanor, his playful humor and ability to get everyone to live in the present. A lot of what I saw in my Uncle Bob I see in my cousins. That kind, fun lightheartedness, strength and confidence will shine through to the next generations. Josh
Micheline and I want to express our sadness upon hearing about Bob's passing. He was a good and kind man with a ready smile to those around him. Our heartfelt sympathies to Colleen, Mary Jane, Katherine and Bob's family.
Dear Bob, I can’t recall the first time we met or the circumstances but I do know it was high school as juniors. You were a year ahead of me in Paul, Rick and Bryan’s grade and active in sports and quickly became a fixture at our Petawawa home. Whether shooting baskets, drilling a football or baseball at me, learning to swim at Black Bay, camping on Spug Island/Lion’s Head and Whitson Lake in Algonquin, piling lumber at Shaw’s, playing men’s baseball or just hanging out, you were always the sensible one. You always put your best foot forward and showed an honest respect for your elders and parents. I remember sitting with your mom and dad, Mona and Eldon, listening to stories and advice before heading out somewhere. My mom was usually at ease when she knew I would be venturing out with you, whether to a party, prom or Pembroke Lumber Kings game! We did, however, get into the odd pickle together…hitchhiking to and from London when you were heading off to arrange accommodation at UWO, and the odd disagreement, possibly over a girl cutting into our respective guy time! Then came university for you and my rambling years…you wanted to wear a “suit and tie” and I didn’t know what I wanted but we kept our friendship. Somewhere in all that I introduced you to my cousin from Lynda, from Ottawa, remember that?, building your courage up to date her! I might have told you to “man up” but that’s only my recollection! Man you were annoying, totally flipped over her, talk about a romantic you were all the while keeping your sites on your career and, of course, friendships! Yeah you had quite a cadre of high school, and then, university friends but we could always pick up where we left off, usually over a beer or two or… I ended up in the forestry field wearing “plaid shirts” in northern Ontario and we got to resume our love of the outdoors together and eventually with our children…I know this was hard for you to pull off due to the travel, home and job commitments but you made it work. Indeed our families shared some very memorable camping experiences, including the coldest July on record in Wawa! Always a good hike, canoe adventure, frog catching or hook baiting and yes, the evening you paddled Lynda across Lake of Two Rivers to celebrate your anniversary at Killarney Lodge Restaurant…what a class act! Well Bob, I could ramble on…suffice to say we valued each other for who we were and I will continue to value our time together, our arm wrestles, our moose and deer hunts, our honesty! I will continue to admire your calm demeanour, your integrity, your ethics and morals, your grit and work ethic, your fierce loyalty, your wit and laughter, your sparkle! I know you’ve had a rough go these past 12 years or so and you had difficulty expressing yourself so I will be your voice in telling Lynda and your family how much you love them! Till we meet again, your old friend, Mike Dumouchel
My Uncle Bob will always be a role model to me. He always had this unstoppable charismatic energy about him! At those summer and Christmas gatherings we would have as a family, he kept the party alive with his great humor and love of competition. From tossing us into the pool to playing darts, horseshoes, shooting hoops playing 21, he was always ready to show you how it's done! But never afraid to make you perform at your best too. Somehow always making it fun even if he won. I even remember the one time my dad and him played us in Beer Pong haha! Blew my mind when I realized you could do that with your family. Ill never forget the way he was, but my two favorite memories of uncle Bob would have to be when he first busted out the guitar at one of our summer reunions. I had brought my guitar aswell this year and he wanted to jam together! He had just started learning, I remember this being the only time I had ever seen him look shy or nervous, he'd had a binder with a bunch of songs in it and together we played a few in living room. I think Last Kiss was one he was learning to sing, he had such a soft voice. My other is kind of an obscure one, but it's something I always think about when I think of him. One night we were having a fire in the backyard by the shed, I think only the boys were still awake and we were all enjoying the good company and cold drinks. We had gotten onto the subject of movies, and when uncle Bob spoke he told us about his idea for a sci-fi movie. I love this genre so needless to say I was all ears, and tuned in. His movie started off like this : Aliens land on earth because their planet was destroyed, so they come seeking refuge. These beings also exist on different light spectrums, so to us they appear very scary, and it's because of that appearance we don't understand they need help and insead we go to war. After some time a scientist discovers a way to look at their true shapes, revealing that they look exactly the same was as we do. Only then do we find peace. This memento of him will always plays in my head because it's testament to the kind of person he was. Thoughtful, compassionate, creative, free and forever inspiring. I love you Uncle Bob! Thank you for your time here!
My deepest sympathies to Linda and family and the Furlong family. As a younger Schryer, I knew Bob as someone who was always over at our place playing sports or hanging out with my older brothers. I was also over at the Furlongs often being friends with Katherine. Bob was always kind and friendly. We have been privileged and blessed to have grown up together! He will be deeply missed but has left so many wonderful memories.
Dear Lynda and Family I am so sorry to hear of Bob's passing. We met when my son Alex played with Shawn on the Jr. Knights but it was Bob's kindness that allowed me to continue in a job I loved. The last two years the boy's played together I was running a large sales force travelling 20 days a month all over North America. My right knee decided not to work properly anymore and as Bob saw me limping in and out of every hockey arena he insisted I come into see the doctors at Fowler. As the problem grew worse and my schedule became crazier Bob got me into the tech's and doctors and I am sure broke many rules to do so. I thanked him many times but but I don t think he ever knew the great effect he had on my career. I wish you and your family the very best . Sam Collister
Our deepest condolences to you Linda and to the Furlong family. To Colleen , Mary Jane, and Kathy, may Bob's memories live on. Bob will be deeply missed, may he rest in Peace. Love Sherri and Fred
I am so sad to hear of Bob's passing. He was such a great person. We had many meetings over the years about Fowler Kennedy's satellite location downtown in Citi Plaza (Galleria back in 1997 when we opened it) and Bob was always kind, open minded, and fair. I remember those years fondly, and Bob was a big part of that. The past years could not have been easy on Bob or the family. Hopefully knowing that he was greatly appreciated and missed will give some comfort.
I’m so sorry to hear about your lost. My condolences go out to you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Bob and I met in high school and we enjoyed a great friendship during those years. We played football together and did some serious socializing during our time at Champlain and those memories I will always have and enjoy. We all moved on our lives and while our connection was lost I knew Bob did great things in his adult life with both work and his family, and sure he will be dearly missed by all those that knew him. We want to extend our sincere sympathies to Linda, and the entire Furlong family as the world has lost a great man!
We have been fortunate to have such a special loving brother and brother-in- law. Your memory will live in our hearts forever. Colleen & Ross
Just wanted to send my condolences. Thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. Big hugs!
As I prepare to say goodbye to my little brother, I reflect on the little boy that I remember and the exceptional man that he became. Bob was always caring, patient, generous, kind, funny, honest and loyal. These are attributes that he carried into adulthood and demonstrated both in his personal and professional life. He and Lynda shared a incredible bond and together raised 3 amazing children. What a wonderful legacy he has left. I must admit growing up, Bobby could be irritating as only little brothers can be. Whether it was tearing the head off my doll or being a terrible tease, he really knew how to get me going. This teasing continued into our adult life. Memories of me sitting and waiting to be selected for Bob’s coveted family “team” at the Furlong Family reunions has become an on-going source of family humour and is another example of Bob’s teasing and fun-loving nature. I am comforted to know that Bob is now free from the grips of Alzheimers and that he is in the welcome arms of our parents. You will always be in my heart. Rest in peace little brother. Colleen
Thinking of you all Lynda & Family during this difficult time. It was always nice to see Bob (and you) at Jason’s Rockets games in the old barn. May the good memories help you get thru the tough times ahead. With deepest sympathy, Bonnie & Ron Mathers & sons
Lynda & Family Heartfelt sympathy to you Linda and family on the passing of Bob. I’ll always have fond memories of Bob as a true gentleman and leading a busy life as a husband and father. Bob kindly hosted a tour at the Fowler-Kennedy Sports Clinic years ago, for our Men’s Club at our church. He was a class act all the way. God Bless you and your family during this most difficult time. I lost my dear Susan unexpectedly last November. Ross Cordell Grand Bend Grand Bend
Dear Lynda. We were so sorry to read about Bob’s passing. You are in our thoughts and we wish you and your family peace.
Being the youngest of 4, Bob was someone I always looked up to. Not just because he was taller than me, but because he was always so kind, gentle and caring. I don’t ever remember a time where he got annoyed or angry at his little sister. When Bob asked if I would be his goalie so he could practice his hockey skills in the basement, I was more than eager to comply, even if that involved having no equipment on me. Who else has been on the receiving end of one of Bob’s slapshots? Sometimes the puck was a ball other times, a failed attempt at tea biscuits that Colleen tried to make! You can guess which one hurt more. Bob and I had the same sense of humor. Often, we would glance at each other in a room full of people to see who was going to have the wittiest comeback. I adored those moments. As our families grew and children came into the mix, some of our best summer memories are the family reunions at Bob and Lynda’s house. How these two came up with all the silly games we played, I’ll never know but I do know we will all cherish those times together. Lynda, Kali, Jason and Shaun, these last 12 years have been hard, but you have always exemplified what it means to be family and continued that right to the end. You have taken care of our brother when we couldn’t and please know that did not go unnoticed. We love you all!
I worked with Bob for all of those 'more than 2 decades' at the Fowler Kennedy Sport Medicine Clinic. He was delightful guy. He was dedicated to his job, enjoyed people, and contributed to a great working environment. He always had a smile and kind word. We need more people like him in this world. My deepest sympathies to Lynda and the family.
Sincerest sympathies sent from my father, John Zadow, who was Bob’s senior basketball coach at CHS. He recalls him being an excellent all-around athlete.
I am deeply saddened to read this. I remember Bob very well from Champlain High. He was ahead of me but both of us shared a similar passion for sports. He was a "senior" javelin thrower when I was just starting out throwing in grade 10. In the early 80's I ended up working a University Co-op placement under Bob as a fitness leader at the London YMCA. I believe the last time we crossed paths would have been at the Champlain High School reunion in the mid 80's. I always admired Bob, A handsome, fit and athletic man with a great personality. My deepest condolences to you Kathy and all who knew and loved Bob.
A donation has been made to Alzheimer Society. Message from the donator: It was a pleasure working with Bob for many years at Fowler Kennedy Sport Medicine Clinic. My thoughts and prayers are with his family as they celebrate his life and mourn his passing.
Growing up I always thought of Uncle Bob kind of like Superman. Super athletic, super strong, and super kind. He would always greet you with a big smile and cheesy joke of surprise like he wasn’t expecting it to be you at the front door. I will always cherish the memories of our family reunions and of him keeping us kids entertained whether it was chasing us around the yard, playing mini stick games, or showing us all up playing horse shoes with his perfect ringer throws. Anytime I smell fresh cut grass on a hot summer day I’m always reminded of playing darts in the shed and those laughs we all shared together. Uncle Bob I will always love you and hold you in my heart. Thank you for bringing so much joy, love and happiness to those around you. ❤️
Forever in our Hearts 💕 Always in our thoughts dear brother!
You are a “one of a kind “ family! The respect, support, friendship and love you all have for each other as parents, siblings, aunts and uncles has been unwavering all along the 43 years that I have known you all. You are a special family❤️. My boys have amazing memories of Bob and Linda’s summer family reunions! Bob made those a lot of fun, so creative and memorable. We are really saddened by his long illness and passing. Our hearts go out to you all. His generosity, his joy of life and life of service, his love of family, will never be forgotten.
I will always remember my Uncle Bob to be kind, soft-spoken, and fun. My favourite memories of him will always be from our family reunions. He and my dad hosted the themed games and Uncle Bob put his all into the role; he loved being goofy. I will cherish all my memories of him: from throwing us kids around in the pool, to helping me shoot some hoops in his backyard. ❤
Dear Lynda, Kylie, Jason and Shaun and family Our deepest sympathies. Our communities were blessed to have had Bob in them. ❤️ May he rest in peace. xo
I wanted to share a few stories of my big brother that brought back memories and tears…..I could go on and on…. we can share more together this weekend! Love MJ Bob stories: Growing up….Bob being the only boy …..was the “apple” of our mothers eye! And I hope I can speak for my sisters when I say, he was ours too! Somehow no matter what we were doing, if Bob asked us to get him something we would, without any grumbling! Even his hockey or Ball gear that was usually in the basement! If he was running late or had his boots on , we would run downstairs and get it for him….and you know….I don’t ever remember saying no! He would just smile and say please and we did it!!! Bob was always my mentor growing up, especially when it came to sports. All through high school Bob played and excelled at every sport he attempted. By the time I got to high school he was a senior and had his name on pretty much every trophy in the display cases at Champlain High School I on the other hand, was just an average player…I made the teams …but just average… trying to give it my all. At the end of each year was the “Athletic Banquet “ all who played on teams were invited I really believed that my participation on teams was only to go to these banquets to help Bob carry home all the “hardware” he inevitably won each year ……and you know what….I was so proud to do it!! Also In High School ….Bob being a senior…. Stood with all the “Jocks” (and best looking guys in school I might add) in the prime “Hallway” location to watch everyone who walked by! I was the envy of my girlfriends as all of Bobs friends would say hello, or sometimes even walk to class with me ….as they all acted like protective big brothers out of respect for my big brother Bob! Bob was a gentle giant! He was always so humble in his winnings but so powerful in his actions ! He was a leader in sports and a proud team player when the praises given! At home he was the same….. a good listener and the best at setting examples on how to be a good person! He was a very proud Dad and he expressed his love for his children often to everyone, but we all new the love of his life was Lynda! He made it known often to all of us through the years, that Lynda was his forever Love and best friend …his sole mate!
Many hugs from Lurgan Beach. You have so many cherished memories with Bob to help carry you all through the difficult days ahead.
A donation has been made to Alzheimer society southwest partners. Message from the donator: In loving memory of our dear friend Bob. With love from Dale and Judy and family
Dear Lynda, I was so sad to hear today of Bob’s passing. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and the kids. 💕
Dear Lynda and family, I have so many wonderful memories of working with Bob at the Y and volunteering with him at Corporate Challenge and other community events. He was an amazing boss, thoughtful mentor and a beloved friend. He had a great sense of fun and I will always remember the twinkle in his eye and often dry sense of humour. The world is a better place because of Bob and the lives of those who had the privilege of knowing him are forever blessed. Our love, thoughts and prayers are with you. Sue and Barry Hardy
The entire Greenside clan sends their thoughts, prayers, and condolences. My two older brothers and myself had the pleasure of playing many years of Axemen Hockey with Bob, as well as pick up hockey on Sunday mornings at Glen Cairn arena. We also played a bit of ball hockey together on Sunday mornings during the summer up at the old UWO outdoor rink. My nephew Kyle had the privilege of playing for the Strathroy Rockets for a number of years with Jason who was also one of his groomsmen at his wedding. My son Brandon had the opportunity of playing Jr. B hockey against both Jason and Shaun, and then together with them at UWO with the Mustangs, where they went onto the CIS Nationals on two occasions. So needles to say, over the years we have come to know the Furlongs fairly well. We were not close, but we were good friends. During all of these activities and events we got the pleasure to meet and socialize with the pillar of the family (Linda). The woman who has always been there for her family. Linda you have done an amazing job continuing to raise your family and to be there for Bob after he was diagnosed and then continuing to live with Alzheimer's. It takes a special person to do that, so thank-you from all of Bobs friends and his former hockey team-mates, we really appreciate the care, patience, and love that you, and your entire family, have provided for Bob for so long. You are a exceptional person and you and Bob have done an incredible job of raising a very special family. Please know that our thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family as you celebrate Bob's legacy and life. Pat, Janice, Brandon and Rebecca Greenside and the entire Greenside Clan.
Sending our deepest condolences to Lynda and family. We have many fond memories of cheering on the Western Mustang men’s hockey team together. Bob has left a wonderful legacy throughout the Western and London communities. May he rest in peace.
We first met Bob during the Oakridge hockey and later, the Junior Knights years. He was as fine a fellow parent fan and coach as you could hope for. His easy-going demeanor was not only a calming influence that the boys could count on, but the parents too. We were very sorry to learn of his passing. Our condolences to Lynda, Shaun, Jason, and Kali and to Bob's family and friends.
First and foremost, my condolences to Lynda and Kali, Jason and Shaun and the rest of Bob's family - it seems like just yesterday the three of you were kids running around the rink watching us play hockey . I played hockey with Bob for 20 years and for most of it on the same line - I use to joke that I carried him for all those years but everyone knew Bob was not only one of the best players on the team but without a doubt, the leader. We had a lot of fun on the ice and off at team parties, championship celebrations to wee hours of the morning and of course at those "infamous" Meaford tournaments. I've thought of Bob often since I heard of his diagnosis and despite the tragedy of it I will always remember him as one the greatest guys I've ever met and called a friend. Unfortunately I won't be able to attend the ceremony but my thoughts will be with you all as you celebrate Bob's life.
It has been my absolute privilege to have interacted with Bob when he was a student at The University of Western Ontario and when he played an intregal role in the transformation of the Fowler-Kennedy Sprts Medicine Clinic. I will always appreciate the xeal and dedication that he had in approaching any task before him. Although his life has ended, his legacy will live on. My best to the family. You will once again gather in love.
We are so sorry to hear of Bob’s passing and that we can’t be there to show you our support. We have always enjoyed Bob’s company. Jan has so many wonderful memories of working with Bob at Fowler Kennedy, and Dan coaching hockey with Bob both baseball and hockey, and all the games that we have all watched together. We know it has been a tough last few years and we will continue to pray for you as a family as you adjust. It is a pleasure to know the Furlong family, and we send you our love and support.
Linda, we send our love and prayers to you and your family. He sure put up a strong fight. Will be thinking of you all. Love.
I hunted with Bob and the rest of the guys at Newfoundout for a few years before Bob quit hunting. Really liked Bob. My condolences to all his family and close friends. Jim
I went to high school with Bob, played football at least 3 maybe 4 years, great athlete, when he went to western and I was going to Fanshawe in London we were roommates, this is sad news, he was a good friend and buddy, my condolences to his family
I will miss you "Big Brother". You will forever be in my heart. Until we meet again....... Katherine
Services for Robert ‘Bob’ Furlong
Visitation will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario
July 21, 2023 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Visitation will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario
July 21, 2023 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Additional Service information
Further services will be held privately.
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Like Shaun, Lorne, Paul and so many others, I was also fortunate to meet and play with Bob on his Axemen team in its last few years. After the team finally ended its run, I was able to continue playing with Bob on Tuesday afternoons at Carling and to enjoy a beverage with him afterwards. He also joined us for the odd skate at Paul’s Sunday morning sessions and as things progressed, I remember his son Shaun bringing Bob out and watching Shaun modestly trying to play down to our level. It was touching to see the great respect he had for his dad and to know how much it meant to Bob to play and keep in touch with the guys. For us, it was bittersweet; on one hand it was sad to see Bob slowly deteriorate from the terrific player he once was, but that was offset so much, much more by the enjoyment of just seeing him again. It’s sad that he left us so young. Bob will truly be missed, and I feel very fortunate to have known him. I will always remember Bob as a great guy with an outstanding family and the legacy he’s left through them. My sincere condolences to Lynda and family.
~ Norm Clarke