Bob "Don't Call Me Robert" Tindall

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Bob Graham Tindall on October 4 at the age of 86. Bob very much loved his hometown of Toronto (an East Yorker first and foremost), the black and gold of the Boston Bruins, and above all, friends and family. Following 17 years at Bell Canada, Bob was fortunate to turn his passion for the game of hockey into a fulfilling and life-long career with the Boston Bruins of the NHL. Bob joined the Bruins scouting staff on a part-time basis in 1973 and became a full-time member in 1983. His keen eye for on-ice talent eventually led him to be named the team’s Director of Scouting. Even after retirement in 2001, Bob’s interest in the game never waned. Whenever the Bruins were in town, Bob would join them at their morning skate. This is where he was truly at home... reporters in the empty stands, the sounds of pucks and sticks on the ice, shouts and laughter from the team, and then to just shoot the breeze with players and staff.

Bob was the consummate raconteur with a story or two always at the ready. Often a “quick” phone call from Uncle Bob would turn into an hour’s conversation with the inevitable “just one more thing before I let you go”. And his dry sense of humour was never too far away. How many of us were caught off-guard with his ever-changing answering machine greeting? Bob was also an avid follower of the Blue Jays, lover of 50s music, and enjoyed going to movie matinees (the perfect place to spend time before an evening game).

He said it’s the people you meet along the way that make it all worthwhile. And Bob indeed met and befriended many, many people in the world of hockey, entertainment, and journalism. He cherished all the friendships he forged, especially a particular one that goes back to public school. But when it comes right down to it, Bob valued family more than anything else. Our family, and the entire hockey family, has been made richer because of Bob. His departure may have left an enormous hole in our lives but he has also left us with many wonderful and cherished memories to help fill the void.

Born to Dorothy and Charles in 1936, Bob is predeceased by his older brothers William, Frank, and Barry. He is survived by his nieces Barbara (Mick) and Sharon (Kevin), nephews Wayne (Claudia), Richard, and Daren. Loving granduncle to Eron, Keely, and Randal (Danielle), and great-granduncle to Sammy and Brianna.

Thanks to the palliative care team at North York General Hospital, and to the care givers at Sunnybrook and St. Joseph Hospital.

For those who wish, you can make a donation in Bob’s memory to Concussion Legacy Foundation Canada or Kid Sport Canada.

A celebration and remembrance of Bob’s extraordinary life will be held on November 13th at Aria Ristorante, 25 York St, Toronto (opposite Scotiabank Arena); 1:30 – 4pm.