MacLeod, Robert "Bob" Alan (Died)

MACLEOD, Robert "Bob" Alan

September 4, 1944 - January 22, 2020

Robert "Bob" Alan MacLeod died peacefully in hospital with his beloved wife, Renata (Battistella), his daughter, Taviana-Jean and his daughter's partner, Émile at his bedside, on Wednesday, January 22, 2020. An exceptionally proud father and caring husband, Bob is survived by his three loving nephews, Andrew (Laura), Robert (Toyomi) and James (Lia) MacLeod, their mother, Marcia, his great-nieces and nephews, and his many, many close friends. Always armed with a book in hand, Bob will be remembered as a profoundly kind, gentle and principled man with a remarkable sense of humour.

Robert was born in Markham, Ontario. He was the son of Alexander and Jean MacLeod and brother to Douglas MacLeod. An accomplished poet, Bob's work and writing often immersed him in struggles for labour and social justice dating back to his years at Lakehead University (Thunder Bay), where he was a dedicated activist and famously adored school bus driver.

Bob became active among Ottawa's literary community in the late 1960s while working as a respected driver for Para Transpo users. Publishing poems in Anthos poetry books, magazine and radio, he graced many Ottawa stages with his wise and formidable presence. As a longtime member of the Steelworkers Local 9597 leadership, he also earned a reputation as a tough but reasonable union representative on behalf of the Capital's security workers.

His entry into any space always brought light and kindness into the room and he will be dearly missed by many. A Celebration of Life for Robert MacLeod will be held in Ottawa in the Spring, where friends and colleagues are invited to share poems, music and stories in his honour. Condolences may be sent to: taviana.mac@gmail.com.