Posted Mar 30, 2023 | 10:43 AM
The family is sad to announce the passing of Bob, at Lee Manor Nursing Home, on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, with the family by his side. Born on July 15, 1933, Robert Arthur Cline, of Owen Sound, was in his 90th year.
Dearly loved husband and best friend for 53 years of the late Barbara Cline (née Marshall) (2011). Loving father of David Cline (Brenda) of Simcoe, Kathryn Whitehouse (Kevin) of Annan, John Cline (Michelle) of Grimsby and Paul Cline (deceased) and his wife, Peggy also of Grimsby. Proud grandfather of Brian (Crystal), Lisa, Sarah, Blair, Andrea, Emily, Andrew, Peter (Truc) and Philip and great-grandfather of Noah, Matthew, Emma and Elizabeth. Dear brother of Margaret Mills and Jean Cline both of Mississauga and brother-in-law of Dorothy Marshall of Etobicoke, Donna McCallum of Woodstock and Donna Marshall of Port Dover.
Predeceased by his parents, Arthur and Inez Cline, his brothers-in-law, Bob Mills, Bruce Marshall and Bob McCallum, his parents-in-law, Willis and Mary Marshall.
Bob was born and raised in St. Catharines and developed an interest in agriculture at a young age living in the Niagara Fruit Belt and while visiting his grandfather’s farm. He studied soil chemistry at the University of Guelph (B.Sc.), soil physics at Michigan State University (MSc.) and tree fruit physiology and plant nutrition at Purdue University (Ph.D.). This led to a 38-year career as a research scientist at the Horticultural Research Institute in Vineland, ON. He made significant contributions in developing soil management and fertilizer recommendations for many horticultural crops grown in Ontario that remain in use today. He made lasting friendships with many colleagues and tree fruit and grape growers.
After moving from their hobby fruit farm in Grimsby in 1992, they established a commercial apple, pear and plum orchard and bakery in Annan, named Soundview Orchards. He and Barb were avid gardeners and shared their bounty generously. The family enjoyed many camping trips throughout Canada and the USA, which brought lasting memories.
Bob had a deep faith and served for many years at Centennial Park Baptist Church and later at First Baptist Church in Owen Sound. Family and serving his Lord were key tenets to Bob. He treasured gatherings with family and friends. He took a keen interest in the lives of his children and grandchildren and supported them in many ways. Family and friends are saddened by the loss of Bob but celebrate his long life and treasure his sense of humour, quiet compassion and many wonderful memories.
A Funeral Service for Bob Cline will be held at the Brian E. Wood Funeral Home, 250 14th Street West, Owen Sound, Ontario 519-376-7492 on Saturday, April 1st, 2023 at 4:00 p.m. with Dr. Rev. Keith Sweeting officiating. Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. until the time of the service at 4:00 p.m. Spring interment in Leith Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Canadian Diabetes Association or the First Baptist Church, Owen Sound would be appreciated. Condolences can be sent to Bob’s family by visiting his memorial at www.woodfuneralhome.ca.