Robert (Bob) Lorne Hills passed away early in the morning on Monday June 23, 2025, with his wife Christine Facette at his side. He was 69 years old. Bob was a loving big brother to his three siblings, the late Wendy Hills, Deanne McLaughlin (Terry) and Kevin Hills (Juli Ann Wall). Predeceased by his parents Arthur and Pauline (Barfoot) Hills. Survived by children Alexander McCann (Lena), Andrea McCann (Kentish Watson), and Matthew McCann (Maddie), many cousins, grandchildren, nieces, great nieces, nephews, great nephews, one great grandson and one great great nephew.
Bob was born and died in Ottawa, but lived all over the world both as a child and as an adult. He attended RMC in Kingston Ontario, graduating with a Chemical Engineering degree and a large number of lifelong friendships that continue to endure, 50 years later. He served with the Air Force for almost 30 years, retiring as a LCol at the age of 48, after which he met his wife to be through mutual friends. Together they travelled, enjoyed many music concerts, football games, and the simple pleasures of staying home, reading books on the deck, swimming, fires in the fireplace and entertaining friends and family. Bob had a wonderful dry wit and the ability to see the humour in every situation. He was an avid fan of board gaming, from which he developed several deep friendships.
Hosting parties was a passion, particularly his neighbourhood Christmas parties. This created a sense of community that extended to a monthly breakfast club of the street’s seniors.
He will be missed by all of his friends and family, including his in laws, who loved him as one of their own.
Bob’s last few months were spent at the Ottawa Heart Institute. A heartfelt thanks to the staff who cared for him there, particularly the nurses and doctors on H5. His final days were at St. Vincent’s Palliative Care Unit.
Donations to either of these organizations, in lieu of flowers, would be greatly appreciated.
Family and friends are invited to visit at the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa, on Friday, July 11 from 12 p.m. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. in Beechwood’s Sacred Space, followed by the interment in the National Military Cemetery.
Digital Guestbook
Andrew Maw & Brigitte Lapointe
Joanne Facette & Roger Houle
Our Condolences to all the family & friend. Bob you will sadly missed but never forgotten. 🙏💞
Don W McLeod
A great friend and glass mate for so many years. I knew his Dad whom I worked with! A real character who always enjoyed a good laugh and an infectious smile! He will be missed by all who knew Bob! RIP! “At the going down of the sun and in the morning we will remember him!”
Doug Campbell
I spent my final two years in the Stone Frigate with Bob and thoroughly enjoyed his wry sense of humour. A lovely man and fine classmate, he will be missed.
12231 john roeterink
Saddened to learn of the passing of an RMC Classmate a military colleague and a husband. “ we will remember him”.
Frank Daller
Bob was a sweet person and a great neighbor.
Marianne Dupont
We look forward to hugging you soon Christine. Our deepest condolences. M&M
Bonnie and Dave Beach
Dear Christine and family,
We were so sorry to hear about Bob’s passing. Even though we only had the pleasure of seeing him once a year, usually at your incredible New Year’s Eve euchre tournament, he made a lasting impression every single time.
Those gatherings were a highlight of the season — full of warmth, laughter, and just the right amount of competitive spirit. Bob’s easy smile, gentle nature, and twinkle-in-the-eye humour made those nights extra special. And of course, the sillier the hat, the better! It was clear to everyone that those nights were a reflection of the love and joy you two built together.
It’s heartbreaking to know he’s gone far too soon. But what a beautiful gift to have found such a deep and genuine love — one that touched everyone who had the privilege of being in your orbit, even if just once a year.
Please know we’re thinking of you all and sending our deepest sympathy and love. We’ll be remembering Bob with fondness — and maybe even pulling out a ridiculous hat in his honour.
With love, Bonnie and Dave xoxo
Barbara Davies
I am so sorry about Bob's passing, but will definitely be at his memorial service. He and his wife Christine were wonderful neighbors and YES he had a wonderful sense of humor! I still remember him walking with his dog Oliver down the street and the many pre Christmas parties they had!!! We ALL shall miss him! The only comment I have for all the Family Members; his life lately wasn't very easy and happy, but at least now he doesn't have to suffer any more!! We will always be there for you, Christine. My condolences to you and family. He will always in our heart! Barbara, one previous neighbor
Ted and Shirley Renaud
We met Bob and Christine only a few years ago as we were all vacationing together in North Myrtle Beach. We quickly became friends! We so enjoyed our pool times together and our family pets, Oliver and Tank, loved sharing our communal yard space! We shared a quiet, calm mutual respect for each other and loved having them as house guests on their way through Pennsylvania. Bob was a warm presence with a quiet undercurrent of humor. We are so blessed to have enjoyed his presence in our lives.
Our most sincere condolences to the family. We will miss his friendliness, a fine example of a Canadian braving all seasons in shorts, and certainly his dry wit. Take care