Andrew Robert Seal Obituary
Bob passed away at the age of 90, in Edmonton, during a brief hospital stay with family by his side.
He was predeceased by his parents, Percy and Annette, his brother Jim, sister Carol and his wife of 52 years, Margaret, in 2009. Bob will be lovingly remembered by brother-in-law Oliver Seward, sons Robert (Joan), Ken (Kathleen) and Doug (Paula), grandchildren Kit, Alexandra (Dave), Francesca (Arun), Emery, Andrew, Jaiden (Caleb), Lauren, Gemma, Megan, Jacqueline, Cassandra, Gabrielle and Mariska and great-grandchildren Hector, Blair and Theodore. He always had a special place in his heart for his nieces and nephews.
The positive impact Bob had on the life of others is vast. Foremost as an involved, loving, and supportive husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, but also through his work and engagement with his community. Following a brief period teaching in a one room schoolhouse, Bob returned to the University of Alberta for a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Divinity, graduating with the Dean’s Gold Medal. He then served as a United Church Minister in Forestburg, Edmonton, Vegreville and Goodfish / Saddle Lake. Broader community service included roles that supported those with addictions, the mentally handicapped, Scouts, Rotary and acting as the Legion Chaplin. Bob was a champion of social justice and diversity, with a firm belief that everyone was one of God's children regardless of religion, race, country or creed.
Bob was a talented hockey and baseball player and loved gardening, camping and hiking. Favorite destinations were Marble Canyon in Kootenay National Park, Osoyoos and Tofino. He had a brilliant mind, often sharing stories, puns and quotes and kept us all entertained with his great sense of humor.
A memorial service will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 29 at Southminster-Steinhauer United Church. The service will be streamed online at https://ssucedmonton.com. Those wishing to attend in person are asked to first contact the family or the church to ensure that we do not exceed the maximum capacity of the church given the COVID restrictions.
Memorial donations may be made to Southminster-Steinhauer United Church or to St. Stephens College Edmonton. A guest book is available through Arbor Memorial:
https://www.arbormemorial.ca
