On Wednesday, October 21st, 2020 Robert (Bob) George Rieger, age of 77, passed away peacefully at Southlake Regional Health Centre. Beloved husband of the late Faye Rieger (nee Scott), loving father of Dana and her husband Andrew Hopper and Austin and his wife Crystal Rieger. Adored grandfather of Harper, Brynn, Magnus and Kelton. Cherished partner of Lynda Baird. Fondly remembered by his sisters-in-law Marcia (and Jim) Beardsley and Valerie Marvin, and his many nieces and nephews.
Bob grew up in Toronto, attending Leaside Highschool, and eventually finding his way to Hobart and William Smith Colleges, in Geneva, New York. It was here he met the love of his life and best friend, Faye Leslie Scott. Bob, always the athlete, played varsity soccer and hockey and graduated with a degree in economics. After graduation, Bob and Faye spent a fabulous life together in Nobleton, Ontario building a horse farm, running a large family company and raising their two children. It was on the farm that Bob got to fulfill his dreams of training and competing with horses, two of which went on to be part of the Olympic Canadian Equestrian Team.
While running his horse farm, Bob also took over and ran the family business for over 30 years. He built it into Canada’s largest independent printing ink manufacturer serving locations in Europe, Australia, the US and all across Canada. Because of Bob’s approachable manner and genuine compassion for others, he fostered lifelong loyalty with friends and family alike. His forthright, but gentle manner, made him loved and respected by all.
After losing Faye in 2009, Bob was lucky to meet his partner Lynda Baird in 2012. He and Lynda lived in a lovely country log home outside of Uxbridge, ON and enjoyed the company of Lynda’s children, Rashmi and Patrick. Bob spent his retirement travelling with Lynda, enjoying discussions in book club, socializing with friends, reading endless books and continuing his passion for cycling. Known to his grandkids affectionately as Bobba, he enjoyed having Harper following him around during farm chores as a small child, passionately discussing politics with Brynn, passing his love of horses and riding to Magnus with lessons and listening to Kelton’s musical concerts.
All who knew Bob were lucky to have done so. With his valued mentoring and guidance of his children and grandchildren, his loyalty and endless generosity to all who were close to him along with his great sense of humour and endless glee with turning a conversation on its end, he will be so greatly missed.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a private, family only, graveside service will be held October 24th, 2020. Once restrictions are lifted, a Celebration of Life will be held for all to attend. Details to come. Funeral services provided by Egan Funeral Home in Bolton, ON. In lieu of flowers a donation to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation is appreciated.
Condolences for the family may be offered at www.EganFuneralHome.com
Whitney Ross-Barris
Fond remembrances of Bob and his kindness to me and my boys when visiting the farm.
My thoughts are with his friends and family.
David Sereda
So sorry to hear of Bobs passing i worked at Rieger Printing Ink co from 1980-1992. He was a great man.
Mark
I so enjoyed my visits to the Bairds . Whenever we sat on one of the couches – often with a fireplace not too far away, usually with me sharing what fresh adventure or misadventure had befallen me, I felt Bob’s kindness and generosity of spirit. His experience was always offered lightly and with kindness. He left a lot unsaid and I interpreted that as trust and approval. I will miss Bob and the generosity he showed me. My condolences to Lynda and the families.
Dan Paine and Family
Our deepest condolences to all the Rieger family. I respected and admired Bob and had the pleasure to get to know him not only through working at Rieger but on a personal level through his son Austin and family. Our love and sympathies go out to the family on the loss of a great person.
Toby KilgourCavers
Dana I was so sorry to read on the Eglinton PonyClub site that your Dad had died. During my Pony Club years we all had lots of fun. Not sure if you remember Rich and Me visiting you in Nobelton while your Mom was there. We manage to see Bob a few times over the years meeting in Orangeville for lunch.He was a really great guy in all ways. Many will miss him. Our condolences. Toby Kilgour and Rich Cavers
David Deakin
Dana and family. I was not aware Bob had passed away a year ago. My deepest sympathy to you and your family. Bob was the nicest and caring person I have known. He touched my life and I am grateful for his kindness..
Deb Evans
I also was not aware that Bob had passed and so sad that my search for him led me here. I am so sorry for your loss. I will always have fond memories of Bob & Faye . Bob was so kind, helpful and caring. We visited at the farm and they visited John and I at our cottage. On a professional level Bob, Chester and John shared a great working relationship. May your memories carry you through.