RIP Robert "Bob" Spicer HMCS Magnificent

SPICER, Robert 'Bob' Capt (N) Ret’d age 91, of Lower Sackville, passed away peacefully on July 5, 2017, in the VG Site, QEII, Halifax. Born July 17, 1925 in Wiarton, Ont., Bob was a son of the late Robert and Edith (Cole) Spicer. He was predeceased by his much-loved and cherished wife, Ivey Roberta (Beck). He was the most awesome Dad and hero to his four children and their spouses: Roberta (Ken Lane), Robert (Kelly Spicer), Ivey (David Fennell), Doctor Tara Spicer (Norm Holmes). Exceedingly proud Grampa to his wonderful grandchildren, Taryn, Tiffany and Erin, Megan and Deidre, Laurel and Richie; and to his 12 wonderful great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his sister, Amy Laurine; brothers, Basil West, Jerrold and John Henry. Survived by brothers and sisters: Lorne, Edith, Betty, Marie, Ruth and Richard. Dad joined the RCAF in January 1943 and served overseas during the Second World War, flying Harvards until his discharge in August 1945 with the rank of Sgt. He re-enlisted with the RCN in October 1945 and proceeded through the ranks, ultimately getting his commission to Captain (N) in 1964. HMCS Magnificent and Shearwater are just two of the units that Dad served with, and he took great delight in having the distinction of being able to say he flew on the first and last Trackers with the Navy.

He spent time with VX10 and VU33 as well as serving as Staff Officer at HMCS Star and Niagara Sea Cadet Corp. Dad retired from the military in July of 1977. He then went on to serve as a Postal letter carrier and a Commissionaire until 2000. Dad was an avid supporter of his kids and spent many hours as an official at swim meets, chauffeuring his brood and others to swim meets, baseball, and dance recitals over the years. Brownies and guides loved to do their cooking badges for Mr. Spicer, and they always got thumbs up and a delicious review as he signed their papers. Dad and Mom loved square dancing, dog training and geocaching, with dad picking up his last geocache at the young age of 90! Bob and Ivey were a dynamic duo and, as kids, we always knew we were supported in everything that we did or tried. Dad leaves a legacy to us of hope and determination, and these wise words, 'Don’t look for trouble!' We won’t, Dad. Bravo Zulu!