Robert Bleakley

Peacefully on Thursday, May 4, 2023 at home in Highlands Ranch, CO, Robert (Bob) Ashton Bleakley passed away at the age of 73 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Remaining to cherish his memory are: his wife, Liz Bleakley, daughter Kate Bleakley (partner Mattie) and son Mike Bleakley (husband Jeran), step-son Greg Pritchard (wife Kelly) and step-daughter Christina Pritchard. Bob is also survived by his sister Barb Zawada (husband Doug) of Winnipeg and five grandchildren: Liz Artery, Lauren Pritchard, Taylor Pritchard, Cameron Pritchard and Joe Pritchard, as well as nephews Blake Zawada (wife Elena) and Braden Zawada (wife Cay). His parents Roland Mackey Bleakley and Eileen Scott Bleakley predeceased Bob.

Bob was born in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan on September 26, 1949. Due to his dad's career at Swifts, Bob moved numerous times growing up all over Canada including: Moose Jaw, Winnipeg, Toronto, Montreal, Edmonton, Calgary, and returning to Winnipeg in 1968. While in Winnipeg, Bob attended the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg becoming the valedictorian and graduated in 1971 with a Bachelor of Commerce.

After graduation from university Bob began his work career with London Life in 1971. While there, he was loaned to the United Way as an ambassador and thoroughly enjoyed it. After two years, an opportunity presented itself for him to join Great West Life so the family moved back to Winnipeg where he would have a life-long career of 37 years in a variety of roles. Early on in his career he became a Certified Management Accountment. After retirement Bob enjoyed a variety of jobs including positions at: West Marine, Brinks, and finally Target. He was always proud to serve others and was well liked and respected by his co-workers.

Bob was known for his handyman skills, love of travel (cheers to Ireland!), birding, and boating. Some of his happiest days were spent on the water; from Lake of the Woods, Ontario, to Cherry Creek Reservoir in Colorado.  In addition to his love for water, traveling the world was a favorite activity.  Whether it was visiting family in Canada and the United States, jumping across the pond to Ireland, enjoying the pools in Mexico, or climbing the suspension bridge in Australia, Bob always loved a great adventure.

A celebration of Bob's life will be held Monday, May 22, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Horan & McConaty, 5303 East County Line Road.  Reception to follow.

Flowers can be sent to Horan & McConaty, or in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society in Bob's name.