Bob Roy Stoddart’s journey begins in the vibrant heart of Toronto, where he grew up in the town of Weston, which later became part of the City of Toronto.  With two older sisters, Barbara and Diane, and a twin brother, Jack, Bob’s family was tightly knit. His parents ran a small dry-cleaning business, working tirelessly to provide for their family, instilling in Bob the values of hard work and dedication. Childhood for Bob was a blend of ordinary moments and many cherished family holidays.
Uncertain about his future after high school, Bob enrolled at York University to study Psychology. However, after a year, he realized it wasn’t his path and left to find his true calling. He found a job in the shipping department of an importer/distributor, where his potential soon shone through. Promoted to warehouse manager, Bob was encouraged by the owner to pursue further education, leading him to Ryerson Polytechnic, now Toronto Metropolitan University, where he earned a Diploma in Business.
Bob’s time at Ryerson was transformative. He forged lifelong friendships and cherished the experiences he had during those years. After graduating, he returned as a Sales Representative to the importer/distributor. Over the years, he climbed the ranks to become Regional Sales Manager for Ontario and the Atlantic Provinces. This role allowed him to travel across Canada and meet diverse and fascinating people. The independence and connections he made during this time were incredibly fulfilling.  However, corporate restructuring led to downsizing, and Bob received a severance package. Ready for a new challenge, he transitioned into security work on a friend’s suggestion, a field he stayed in until retirement.
Although Bob never had children, he has a close-knit family, especially with his numerous nephews and nieces. His family has always been the cornerstone of his life, a value deeply ingrained by his parents. The passing of his twin brother Jack in 2003, after a battle with cancer, was one of the toughest moments for Bob. Jack was an avid cook and the heart of family gatherings.  Jack’s death left a void but deepened Bob’s commitment to his family.
Guided by the principle of treating others as he wished to be treated, Bob found a new purpose as a volunteer at Shepherd Village. Inspired by the excellent care his mother received at the Lodge, Bob joined the organization as a volunteer in 2017. His days are filled with one-on-one visits with residents, playing checkers, sharing jokes, and ensuring everyone gets some sunshine, whether in the courtyard during summer or by a sunny window in winter. Bob’s contributions have made him a beloved figure at Shepherd Village, where his presence is deeply valued by residents and staff alike.
Reflecting on his life, Bob would advise his younger self knowing what he knows today to truly listen to others, as genuine listening can profoundly impact someone’s life. He believes that if young people today could put down their phones and engage with the world around them, they would discover the immense rewards of meaningful connections and community involvement. Bob is confident that once they experience the joy of volunteering, they will embrace it wholeheartedly.
In his final words of wisdom, Bob emphasizes the importance of not sweating the small stuff and treating others with kindness and respect. He fondly recalls his college days when he formed friendships that have lasted a lifetime. His journey is a testament to the power of kindness, hard work, and the lasting impact of genuine human connections.