Obituary of Robert Wezenbeek

WEZENBEEK, Robert - It is with a deep sadness that we announce that Robert - after a last shared goodnight with Maryanne, his wife and soulmate of over 46 years - died peacefully in the early morning of Thursday, June 5, 2025

Born in Haarlem, the Netherlands, on November 30, 1939, Robert was the son of Johannes and Martina (Koning) Wezenbeek.

As a young man, Robert travelled the world as a ships engineer. This opened his mind for different cultures and languages. 

From the jazz clubs in New York to the poverty in Mumbai, he saw, listened and learned. 

After emigrating to Canada in 1980 with his young family, Robert worked in Sarnia (ON) at the Suncor Refinery until he retired in 2000. After deciding that "sitting idle" was not his thing, he worked at the Fairmont Hotel & Resort in Whistler (BC), learned and loved to ski, volunteered as a Whistler village host and he and Maryanne travelled to many different destinations as often as their work in hospitality allowed. 

Since 2016, Robert and Maryanne lived most of the winters in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. They learned to appreciate the warm mentality of the Mexican people, the food and above all the music. Robert's favourite musicians played regularly in CC's, a restaurant/bar at the beach. He not only listened to music, he absorbed it - any music, jazz, blues, classic and more

Through his stories and teaching, Robert's legacy is, in one way or another, alive in the children he raised: Marcel (Monique), Kevin (Cindy), Lisa (Tom) and Inger (Mike); as well as his beloved grandchildren: Kaj, Jip, Nikki, Trevor, Bryan, Bianca, Danielle, Curtis, Bowen and Kaya.

"The strength you had, your passion for building, creating, music, travel, theatre and always learning, knowing more your sense of humour, laughing-out-loud and deep love for those close to you. You gave us your very best, so be in peace, your now tired body earned its sleep, always and forever with us"

Besides his parents, Robert was predeceased by his sister Joma and brother-in-law John. Robert had a close bond with their children, his niece and nephew: Nana and Jurgen 

According to Robert's wishes a cremation has taken place and a gathering to remember his life will be held on Sunday, July 6 in Dartmouth NS. Details will be shared soon.

In his memory, Robert would want us to walk in the woods, listen to music and share meals and laughter with others.

Our deep respect and gratitude for the doctors and nurses at the emergency room of the South Shore Regional Hospital in Bridgewater NS. They tried all they could for Robert, but he was out of options after months of a courageous battle to stay with us. 

Arrangements entrusted to Sweeny’s Funeral Home, Bridgewater, where online condolences may be left at www.sweenysfuneralhome.com.