ROBERTL.MELLISH1952-2023INLOVI

ROBERT L. MELLISH 1952-2023
In loving memory of Robert Lea Mellish “Bob”, 71, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of a man whose life enriched the lives of all who knew him. Bob passed away peacefully with his family by his side at the Foothills Hospital in Calgary AB on November 9, 2023.
Born in Moncton NB, he was the son of George Thomas and Jeanette Maude (Patriquin) Mellish. In addition to his parents, Bob was pre-deceased by his siblings George, Alvin, Victoria (Muir) Chase, and Helen (Eddie) Durette.
Bob leaves behind a legacy of love and memories and will be deeply missed by his wife of 48 years, Janice; his children David of Calgary AB, James (Sarah) of Medicine Hat AB, Andrew (Rachel) of Medicine Hat AB, and Michael (Liyang) of Lethbridge AB; his beloved grandchildren Logan, Ethan, Owen, Ronan, and Kira; brothers Herman (Arloene) of Washington State, Jim (Anne) of Moncton NB, and Charles (Vicki) of Welland ON, as well as many extended family members.
Bob was especially close with his parents, often reflecting on his idealic childhood in Albert County with warmth and affection. He was a natural storyteller, delighting his family with vivid tales from his youth.
Bob’s academic journey was distinguished by notable achievements, including graduating with an Honors degree in History (1974) and a Bachelor of Law degree (1976) both from the University of New Brunswick where he was awarded the prestigious Beaverbrook Scholarship.
University life was not just about academics for Bob; it was a time of forming lifelong friendships and developing a passion for various ethnic cuisines. However, the most significant event during his university years was meeting Janice (nee MacDonald), a nursing student from Moncton NB. Bob often shared with his sons that marrying Janice was the best decision he ever made.
Bob’s professional journey began at the Moncton law firm Forbes Radford DeBow in 1976, where he was made partner. The family relocated to Halifax, NS, in 1981, as Bob pursued an MBA at Dalhousie University, which he completed in 1983. Bob then joined the Halifax law firm Daley Black & Moreira, where he became a senior partner.
Throughout his career, Bob remained deeply involved with the legal community, maintaining memberships in both the Nova Scotia and New Brunswick Bar Associations. His legal journey saw him transition through significant mergers, working for Patterson Palmer (2001-2004) and subsequently Patterson Law (2004-2014). In 2014, Bob embraced a new challenge as General Counsel at the Halifax engineering firm CBCL, a position he held with distinction until his retirement from the law in 2021.
Throughout his professional life, Bob’s generous spirit found expression in various charitable endeavors and organizations. He held a special place in his heart for his role as Chairman of the Abilities Foundation as well as his service to St. John’s Ambulance, for which he was made an Officer of the Order of St. John.
In 2007, Bob was bestowed the prestigious title of Honorary Consul of Iceland in Halifax, a position he held until 2021. His dedication and service in this role were acknowledged with the Queen’s Jubilee Medal in 2022, a recognition that brought immense pride to Bob. His family remains very proud of the legacy he has left behind, both professionally and in his service to the community.
Family was such an important part of Bob’s life, the source of his deepest joy and pride. He took immense pleasure in watching his sons engage in their spirited joking, debating, and antics a sight that never failed to bring a smile to his face. The family’s heart and joy expanded with the arrival of his daughters-in-law Sarah, Nancy, and Rachel. Bob cherished them not just as additions to the family but as his own, appreciating all of the love and happiness they brought to his life. His beloved grandsons Logan, Ethan, Owen, and Ronan, and his adored granddaughter Kira were the apples of Bob’s eye.
Central to this family tapestry is his wife, Janice. Bob’s love for her was absolute. Janice was not just his partner in life but his confidante, his co-conspirator in joy, and the cornerstone of the happy and loving home they built together. They enjoyed their travels together including visits to China, Europe, Iceland, the United States and many parts of Canada.
Bob was far from a bystander in family affairs. Together with Janice, he was the heartbeat of family gatherings, orchestrating meals and hosting events for Thanksgivings, birthdays, and countless special occasions. Their home was a hub of hospitality, with endless Saturday brunches and Sunday dinners where all were welcomed with open arms. Whether he was preparing a 36-pound turkey with summer savory dressing for a festive feast, crafting a spicy Indian curry, or serving a classic Sunday roast with gravy and mom’s Yorkshire pudding, Bob’s table was renowned for both its fare and the warmth of its gathering.
Bob’s absence will be deeply felt, but the love and lessons he imparted will continue to guide and inspire us. As our family tries to move forward without him, we take comfort in imagining Bob where he loved to be – in the kitchen, with the aroma of his cooking filling the air, as if he’s just around the corner, preparing supper for all of us once again.
So come to the table everyone! Dad says supper is almost ready…
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, and in loving memory of Bob, memorial donations be made to The Heart and Stroke Foundation. Condolences can be shared with the family online at www.fairhavenmemorial.ca. A memorial service will be held in Moncton NB, in the summer of 2024.