Obituary of Robert John Skuffham

It is with great sadness in our hearts that we announce our sweet Pupa, Robert John “Bob” Skuffham, 83, of Falmouth, passed away on Thursday, May 11, 2023, after a 12-year battle with dementia. Bob was born on September 29, 1939, in Ottawa but soon moved to Chester, where he grew up with his loving parents, Jack and Freda “Susie” (Gauley) Skuffham and his sister, Betty.

Bob was a man of service, starting his career in the Navy, then becoming a schoolteacher, moving on to working for Encyclopedia Britannica. Bob was like a walking encyclopedia doing trivia right up to the week before he passed away. He had an incredible work ethic and when he wasn’t working, he was spending time with his family or volunteering in his community.

Bob’s passion was music. He was involved with many bands throughout his life including Silver Sands and the Nova Scotians with his best buddies. Later in life he created two CD’s and was so pleased when his grandson, Reid, followed in his footsteps.

He was a devoted husband for over fifty years to his wife, Dianna, a supportive father to his daughter, Jennifer, and he was beyond proud of his grandson, Reid.

We feel grateful that we were able to share memories and laughs with him prior to his passing. He held on for Reid’s sixteenth birthday and this was such a blessing. Thank you, Pupa, for being so strong and giving your grandson this amazing gift.

Mom’s little heart is broken but we are all very grateful that she was snuggling with him when he passed away very peacefully in her arms. My dad died as he lived, with his devoted wife, Lady Di by his side.

Bob is survived by his wife, Dianna (Phillips) Skuffham; daughter, Jennifer Skuffham; son-in-law, Michael Bishop; grandson, Reid Ward; and sister, Betty Skuffham. He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends, including best bud, David Bidinost and his Bayswater buddies, Bette and Bill Mills.

He was predeceased by his parents; grandson, Alex Ward; many family members and friends, including his favourite Uncle Jim, with whom he spent many years at the farm together. Near Bob’s passing, he said he was going back to the farm to be with Uncle Jim so they could enjoy a hamburger and beer together just like old times. This provides all of us with great peace as the time he spent at the farm was some of his happiest memories.

Words will never be able to express our appreciation for everything the staff at the Windsor Elms Village did to take care of our Pupa when we could no longer do it ourselves. You are family to us, and we will forever be grateful for the love and compassion you provided. Thank you also to the staff in Unit 200 at the Hants Community Hospital under the direction of Dr. Matheson and Carol Watson for the last few days of his life. Your compassion will never be forgotten. A big thank you to our amazing friends and family for your love, support and food. You will never know how much this means to us. We will get through this because of the love from all of you.

Bob was the most appreciative person you could ever meet. He always took time to thank someone. In memory of Bob, please donate to your favourite charity, donate blood, help your neighbour or take time to thank someone that has done something nice for you. This would be the best way to honour him.

Arrangements have been entrusted to DeMont Family Funeral Home, 419 Albert St. Windsor (902-798-8317), where visitation will be held 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, May 24. A public graveside service will take place 10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 25 in Maplewood Cemetery, 1186 King St., Windsor. Please bring a chair if required. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting: www.demontfamilyfuneralhome.ca