Friends of Bob Rosen

friendsofbobrosen — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 04:31:33 +0000

ROSEN, Robert (Bob) Louis

June 26th, 1947-November 22nd 2011

It is with deep sorrow that we share the loss of our husband, father, brother,

and friend. Bob passed away peacefully at home, leaving his loving wife

Eva Sharell, beloved son Michael Gabriel Rosen (Tracey), brother Stanley

(Rita), nephew Daniel (Jess and Evan), Janine and Brianna.

Born in Los Angeles, California, Bob came to Canada as a war resister in

1968. For over 30 years, he was a community school coordinator and

teacher in Surrey. He served as president of the Surrey Teachers’ Association

and was active provincially in the BC Teachers Federation.

Throughout his life Bob brought his passion, eloquence and keen mind to

the struggle for social justice – locally and globally. He was a dedicated

organizer and lent his time and wisdom to many community organizations.

Most recently, Bob sat on the board of Co-Development Canada and the

steering committee of Independent Jewish Voices.

Along with his activism, Bob will be remembered as a musician and

accomplished singer. After retirement Bob brought together a band, the

Gram Partisans, with whom he recently recorded a full-length album. He

was an active member of the Solidarity Notes Labour Choir and sang at

numerous picket lines, benefits and rallies. His time with the Puget Sound

Guitar Workshop community was incredibly joyful and meaningful.

Many will recall with fondness BCTF AGMs and countless other gatherings

where Bob pulled out his guitar and led us all in songs of struggle, songs of love,

and songs of peace.

Bob lived life passionately and well, appreciating travel, good food and wine. He

deeply valued his community of friends both young and old. His warmth, open

heart, generosity and big personality will be greatly missed. He will be

remembered with love by David, Ruthie, Anna, Benjamin, and other family and

close friends.

Donations in honour of Bob’s memory can be made to Co-Development

Canada (www.codev.org) or Independent Jewish Voices

(www.independentjewishvoices.ca).

Audio clip about Bob from Coop-Radio’ Redeye Show

Audio clip of Bob singing Ripple

Audio clip of Sue Malcolm and Highrise Lonesome’s song Got to Carry On (For Bob Rosen). Lyrics here

YouTube link to the Remembering Bob slideshow shown at the January 21st memorial

(Click for more video clips from Bob’s last concert…)

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