Obituary of Robert Planert

Robert (Bob) Planert (born May 31, 1919) passed away at Grand River Hospital on Thursday, November 25th at the age of 91. He was the loving husband and traveling companion of Loraine, his wife of 63 years. Beloved father of sons, Glenn (Angela Arenberg) of Waterloo, and Gregg (Sumi Ghosh-Planert) of Calgary. Cherished Opa to grandchildren; Joel (Elfreda), Ashley Nelissen (Andrew), Fletcher & Tiia. Great-Opa to Aaden Nelissen. Predeceased by his parents, George Sr. & Esther Planert and brother George Jr. (Bud). Longtime member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church; lifetime 10-pin bowler and singer of songs at Church and Rockway Glee Club, 20-year deliverer of Meals on Wheels, baseball umpire and devoted fan of the Blue Jays, Raptors, Bears & Cubs. Born and raised in Chicago, Bob proudly served in the US Navy for four years during WW2 after which he joined the family skate business becoming a master craftsman of Planert speedskates. After retiring, Bob, Loraine & Gregg became owners/proprietors of Holiday Cottages, a tourist business north of Wawa, before relocating to Waterloo. As one of the founders of the K-W Sertoma Speedskating Club, Bob coached and mentored many skaters to fun and success. He was affectionately known as "Pops" to the skating community and in later years served in various officiating roles throughout North America. He was honoured with election to both the USA Speedskating and Canadian Speedskating Halls of Fame, received the Province of Ontario Premier's Award and La Sertoma Man of the Year for his work with kids and sport. Visitation will be held at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo on Monday, November 29 from 7-9 p.m. The funeral service will take place on Tuesday, November 30, 2010 at 11 a.m. at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 322 East Avenue, Kitchener. Reception to follow the service. Cremation has taken place. Donations in Bob's memory can be made to Holy Cross Lutheran Church or a charity of your choice and can be arranged through the funeral home, www.erbgood.com or 519-745-8445.