Rob Bennett
October 20, 1955 – May 11, 2024
With his loving family by his side, Rob passed away peacefully on May 11th, 2024 at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre.
He will be forever cherished and missed by his life partner Jan Gibson, daughters Abby (Corey Jones), Hannah (Cale Hayes). Also, by his brother Lex Bennett (Leslie), and sisters Lynda Bennett, Brenda Audette (Rene), and Susan Bennett (Bernie Godbout).
Rob will also be lovingly remembered by brother-in-law Kelly Gibson
(Molly Stouffer), sister-in-law Pat Fleury, his nieces and nephews, and many lifelong friends.
Rob made the move from southern Ontario to Minaki at the age of 18 for summer work, and never looked back. He was never afraid of hard work, in fact, he loved it. Being so resourceful and driven, naturally allowed him success as a true jack of all trades, although he’d say “master of none.” Rob was a respected community member during his 50 years in Minaki. He had a true zest for life; he genuinely was grateful for each day, and would express it! In his many projects over the years, Rob highly valued living in Minaki and being able to build a life that allowed him to go to work by boat, snowmobile, or barge. One of his greatest legacies was his vision of building and creating Sand Lake Outpost along with Jan, and his business partners. This allowed him to share his love of Minaki and the area with so many people over the decades.
Rob’s greatest pride in life was his girls. He was so happy to spend time with his kids, and a whole network of their friends, who respected and admired his approach to life. He loved being on the water, fishing and guiding, getting firewood, and cutting ice in the winter. He was a proud member of the Minaki Muskie Hunt. Rob had a passion for music and found such joy seeing people having fun together.
We will forever cherish his eternal optimism, energy, bright smile and the kindness he showed to everyone.
We would like to thank Dr. Armour Boake, who went above and beyond; and the wonderful nursing staff at TBRHSC for their compassionate care.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.