In memory of

Robert James (Bob) Middleton

July 15, 1923 -  October 13, 2021

Bob Middleton passed away, peacefully in his sleep, on Tuesday, October 13, 2021 at the age of 98 years and is now with his beloved wife, Patricia, who predeceased him on December 28, 2013. Bob is survived by his sons Dan (Debbie), Dave (Dianne), along with grandchildren, Julie, Lisa, Christopher, Christine, Leigh and nine great-grandchildren. Also survived by his brother Bill Middleton (Marie).

Bob joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in August 1942 at the age of 19 in Toronto. Bob served his country and the free world during WWII as a navigator in Lancaster and Halifax bombers. He returned 33 times to the home base of 431 Squadron located at the Croft aerodrome in northern England.

Bob returned to Toronto in April 1945 and married his fiancé, Patricia, in 1946 and started to build their house where they raised their sons and he lived in until his passing. Bob worked for Bell Canada for the next 39 years progressing from a draftsman to a central office foreman until he retired.

In his last 2 years, his son Dan and Bob wrote and published a first-hand story of his life growing up in Toronto through to his service in the RCAF told through over 400 pages and 300 personal photographs and documents. It is titled, “Luck is 33 Eggs” highlighting his 33 operations over war-torn Europe and returning for a fresh egg at breakfast.

In 2020, Bob proudly received an honourary induction into the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, 431 Air Demonstration Squadron recognizing his service in 431 Squadron during WWII.

The family are grateful for the medical care he received while at the Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre.
Memorial donations may be made to the following: Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum (Hamilton), National Airforce Museum of Canada (Trenton), Bomber Command Museum of Canada (Nanton, Alberta) or Sunnybrook Veterans Centre.

Guestbook 

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Rebecca Middleton (Niece in law)

Entered October 14, 2021 from Ajax

Uncle Bob was a very special man. A devoted husband, proud father, grandfather and great-grandfather and wonderful friend to many. I learned many years ago helping Bob tend his yard, that if you wanted to do a job the correct way, you listened to and followed the instructions Bob gave you. It was my honour and privilege to have helped him out over the years. I will miss him dearly. Blue skies and tailwinds my friend.

Jack miller (Friend)

Entered October 15, 2021

My sincerest condolences to the family of Bob. I knew Bob through the Air Force Association.

Jim Walker (Friend)

Entered October 16, 2021 from Markham, Ontario

I had the privilege of meeting Bob in person at his home over the summer. This brief visit was made after thoroughly enjoying his book. Together with my mother-in-law Vera Dickson we very much enjoyed talking with Bob. He was very positive, thoughtful and sharp as a tack. I couldn’t help but to be impressed and inspired with all that he accomplished. Sincere best wishes to the entire Middleton family.

Jim Walker

Pat Hadden (Bell Retirees Scarborough group)

Entered October 16, 2021 from toronto

It was an honor and inspiration to have known Bob through time together at club meetings with fellow retirees .

Patrick King (Friend)

Entered October 16, 2021 from Markham

Sadly missed - our condolences go out to his family and friends. And 'Bob' and Dan the book was great!

Photos 

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