Obituary of Robert Joseph Bertram Vienneau

It is with great sadness and celebration of a life well lived that the family of Robert (Bob) Vienneau announces his passing which occurred on April 24, 2024, at St. Joseph's Hospital GEM Unit.  

Born in Bathurst, NB, on January 19, 1944, to parents Roberta (Boucher) and Bertram Vienneau. Predeceased by stepson, Stephen Jorden.  

Bob is survived by his wife, Elaine (Fawcett); his sons: Tony (Lambie) of  Fredericton, Stephen (Michelle) of Rothesay; step-daughters: Rhonda Jorden Hayward (Reg) of Hampton and Krista Friars (Jonathan) of Quispamsis; grandchildren: Quinn, Avery, Xavier, Arielle, and Maxim; step-grandchildren: Laura, Lee, Jacob, and Kaleb; sisters: Elva “Honey” Cotter (Jack- deceased), Darlene Blanchard (Bill), Donna Challomer (Leroy- deceased), and Cindy Daigle; as well as many nephews and nieces.

Bob graduated from St. Malachy's High School and went on to work for the local newspaper, winning national snapshot awards for his photographic achievements.  Following his time at the newspaper, he went on to enter the American Military as a 4th Class Private in Fort Eustis, Virgina. Following discharge, he completed a special technician course in New York City, where he lived for several years. He returned to Montreal, Canada, where he met and married his first wife, Lavonne.  Upon settling in New Brunswick, he continued his working career as a technician installer until retirement.  Following retirement, he was employed with the Commissionaires as a Security Cpl.  

Bob had many interests within the community. He was a loyal volunteer of the Saint John Ground Search and Rescue and was involved in various aspects of local theatre groups.  His passion became acting in many types of plays, some of his favourites being Shakespeare’s, often directed by Elizabeth Chase and Patrick Toner. He enjoyed playing the mouth organ and took an interest in learning how to play the banjo. In his pastime, he also enjoyed listening to music, reading Stephen King novels, and hiking many trails of Rockwood Park and NB. He was a talented photographer. In winter, he enjoyed snowshoeing.  Bob had a love of nature and animals, often combining the two, as he spent many hours hiking trails with his dog, Candy.    

Bob travelled to many locations, such as: Cape Breton, PEI, Newfoundland, the United States, and an Alaskan boat cruise that was so special. Many European country tours added to the highlights of his life.  His favourite method of travel was by train. He had so much joy when taking the train to Toronto.

Bob was a kind, gentle, and caring man who will be greatly missed by many, especially his wife, with whom he shared so many adventures with. The family would like to thank all the exceptional staff at St. Joseph's Hospital CAM/GEM unit for their love, empathy, and care during his stay.  A special thank you to Dr. Wilson for his kindness.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, NB (506-634-7424). A time of visitation will be held on Thursday, May 2, 2024, from 12 until 2 pm, at which time a Celebration of Life service will begin in Brenan’s Chapel. For those who wish, remembrances to Parkinson's Canada, the Alzheimer’s Society of NB, Canadian Cancer Society, or a charity of the donor’s choice would be appreciated by the family.