ROBERT ALFRED STAINKE

With great sadness, the family announces the sudden passing of Robert Alfred Stainke on Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2014 in Fort Frances, Ont.
He was born to Olga and Theodore Stainke in Wadena, Sask. on Dec. 27, 1944 but moved to Niagara Falls, Ont. when he was about two years old with his family to farm.
Before graduating from high school n 1962, he met his wife, Clara Patterson, whom he married on July 9, 1966. Together, they had two children, Laura Gustafson and Christopher Stainke (Barbara Tibbs).
Robert’s first job was at Kaumeryers printing shop, where he ran an offset press printing calendars.
On July 1, 1967, the family relocated to a family farm in Bergland, Ont. with primitive facilities (no water, no hydro, and no indoor plumbing).
After two years, Robert moved to Crowe Avenue in Fort Frances with all the family. Before he went on call for the Boise Cascade mill, he built his first house with his brother, Roy, and father, Theodore, on Colonization Road, which was the start of his construction and renovation projects over the years.
In 1971, Robert joined the paper mill, where he stayed for 17 years and acquired his 4th grade stationary engineering papers.
In 1981, he and Clara purchased The Bookstop, which they expanded to include video rental and sales in partnership with his brother, Roy.
After 19 years in business, the property was sold and he started StanPat investments with Clara’s brother, Paul, and his wife, Theresa.
For recreational enjoyment, Robert was a hunter in his younger years. Fishing also was a passion of his. He looked forward every year to flying up to Birch Lake with his wife and friends.
Long canoe trips were taken involving portage and camping with a group of family and friends, as well. He also acquired a lot of interesting habits after meeting his long-time friend of 45 years, Les Pattison.
In his later years, Robert enjoyed gardening in his backyard with his grandchildren, Emma and Harrison.
Robert was predeceased by his parents, Theodore and Olga Stainke; and his older brother, Elmer.
He is survived by his wife, Clara; daughter, Laura Gustafson; son, Christopher (Barbara); grandchildren, Emma and Harrison; sister, Rose Mary (Jim) Bain; brother, Roy; and numerous nephews and nieces.
A memorial service was held Monday, Aug. 11 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Royal Canadian Legion in Fort Frances.
If desired, in memoriam donations may be made to the Legion Ladies’ Auxiliary Br. #29 c/o Northridge Funeral Home, P.O. Box 89, Emo, Ont., P0W 1E0.
Online condolences may be offered at www.northridgefuneralhome.com