John Robert "Bob" Reed

John Robert “Bob” Reed changed his address from Swan River to Heaven on February 22, 2024. His 96 years of life were a journey of love and service, a legacy woven into many lives.

Bob was born October 27, 1927, in Stoney Mountain, MB. After enlisting in the Canadian Armed Forces, he acquired a degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1955. Yet his calling to ministry ultimately defined his life. After hearing a challenge to read the Bible and examine evidence about the reality of Jesus, Bob took it upon himself to do so, saying, “God, if you are real, make yourself real to me!” God absolutely did, and Bob was forever altered by this encounter.

While completing his Masters of Divinity at St. John’s College, Bob met his sweetheart Barbara Anne Philips. They married in 1957 and embarked on a lifelong journey of spiritual leadership. Their partnership was a beacon of love, compassion, and unwavering support for 63 years. Dedicated to spreading the love of Jesus, they pastored churches, facilitated summer camps, and led conferences with the Anglican Church, and in 1988 they served as missionaries in Kenya. The couple’s influence extended beyond preaching. Integrity was a compass and strong convictions were a guide, as their prophetic gifts uplifted and empowered those around them. 

Bob loved preaching, continuing well into his 90’s. He was an avid reader and enjoyed cribbage. An ardent Blue Bombers fan, his family would often hear him chant, “C’mon Bombers!” during football games. He led a disciplined life, waking every morning to pray for each member of his family. Every year, he created personalized birthday cards for his children, their spouses, and his grandchildren.

He has now reunited with his beautiful wife, Barbara, and his four sisters (Kay, May, Laura, and Audrey). Though he couldn’t fully comprehend the impact he had on this world, we know he’ll hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” by his heavenly Father, whom he served with great love.

Bob's influence lives on through his four children: Shannon (Vern), Patrick (Elizabeth), Barbie-Siu (Dave), and Julie (Chris), as well as 15 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. 

Bob, rest in Jesus’s presence and know your light will shine brightly in the hearts of all who loved you.

To quote his final statement to his family on his last daily video, “Over and Out!”

A celebration of life will be held from the Living Word Ministries Church, Swan River, MB on April 26, 2024 at 11:00 am

Should friends so desire, donations in Bob’s memory may be made to Living Word Ministries Box 969 Swan River, MB R0L 1Z0

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