Obituary of John Banford Robar

Peacefully in the South Shore Regional Hospital, John Banford Robar, of Upper LaHave, N.S., passed away at age 85 on Wednesday, March 5, 2025.  Born in Dayspring, N.S. on September 10, 1939, he was the son of the late Nellie (Zinck) and Arthur Robar.

John met his beloved wife of more than 55 years, Myrna (Beck), in Halifax in 1968.  He was the dear father of Jayne (Jared) Nichols and Peter (Tina Jones) Robar, precious Grampie of Hailey, Ethan, Derek and Holden.  He was the brother of Gerald (Elaine), Kathryn, Diane, David (Linda), Wayne (Diann) and Elaine (Philip).  Predeceased by brother Harry Robar, Harry’s wife Patsy, brothers-in-law Mervyn and Bob, and Myrna’s parents Helen and Cecil Beck.  He was brother-in law to Bloyce (Jane), George (Lorraine), and Barry (Nancy).

In his early years, John worked alongside his father, uncle and older brothers, becoming a skilled craftsman and carpenter.  He served as Vice President Operations at Truefoam Ltd, where he worked for 34 years.  He was actively involved in Our Saviours Lutheran Church in Dartmouth and Mt. Olivet Lutheran Church in Upper LaHave.   John enjoyed his retirement years with Myrna by the river, his kids and grandkids, neighbours and spent countless hours in his wood shop.

John’s greatest gifts were his kindness, humour and patience, which he generously shared with those around him.  A man of great talent, he was able to design or build anything, and many called on him for advice and mentoring.

John's Celebration of Life will be on Friday, July 25, at 2 p.m., in St. John's Lutheran Church in Mahone Bay.

On John’s behalf, we’d like to thank Lunenburg County VON, South Shore Regional Hospital and Fisherman’s Memorial Hospital Patterson Unit, from whom he received excellent support and care.  Donations in his memory may be made in lieu of flowers to these organizations.

Arrangements trusted to Sweeny’s Funeral Home, 35 York St., Bridgewater NS.