Robert (Bob) Ernest Brown

Robert Ernest “Bob” Brown passed away suddenly on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at London Health Sciences Centre – University Hospital.  He was in his 87th year.

Bob was born in London, Ontario, and came from humble beginnings that shaped the man he became. He was the only son of Robert Mawhinney Brown and May Brown (née Crane).  Bob will be lovingly remembered by his wife Patricia, and his children Mark (Dianne), Trish (Jeff), Joanne (Bruce), and Amanda, as well as other children welcomed through the family home over the years, including Kim (Joe) and Jonathon. He was predeceased by his beloved children – a daughter lovingly referred to as “Angel” and Andrew.  He is also survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him joy. Bob was formerly married to Faith.

Bob was loved and respected by many, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him.

Through determination, intelligence, and an ability to connect with people, he built a long and highly successful career in financial services, rising to the C-suite level. He began his career at London Life through their management program and later held leadership roles with Imperial Life, Laurentian Financial Group, and MD Management. Throughout his career, Bob was both a mentor and a mentee, believing deeply in learning, growth, and lifting others along the way.

Bob was a natural athlete who seemed to excel at whatever he tried. In his younger years, he was an avid golfer and led the London Life fastball team to several city championships. He remained a lifelong sports fan, particularly devoted to NCAA basketball. He loved the outdoors, hunting and fishing, peaceful days at his island cottage on Georgian Bay, and travel adventures that took him around the world.

A man of faith and conviction, Bob served as a Deacon at Wortley Road Baptist Church and was a lifelong Liberal, regularly helping with election campaigns. Above all else, he was known for his genuine kindness, his sincere interest in others, his legendary big bear hugs, and his habit of being the first to say, “I love you.” He was deeply proud of his family and cherished his role as a grandfather.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the doctors and nurses at University Hospital for the excellent care Bob received.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Sunningdale Golf & Country Club, 465 Sunningdale Road West, London on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bob’s memory to Mission Services of London.