Obituary of Bob Darling

Darling, Robert “Bob”

Robert “Bob” Darling, born May 3, 1938, in Brockville, Ontario, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and supported by the community he devoted his life to. Growing up on Charles Street, Bob developed an early appreciation for sport, friendship, and service, values that would define him throughout his life.

Bob proudly served as the trainer of the Brockville Braves for over 50 years, becoming a fixture behind the bench and a steady source of support for generations of young athletes. His exceptional dedication to the sport was recognized when he was inducted into the Brockville and Area Sports Hall of Fame in 2019. Bob was also named Brockville Volunteer of the Year in 2004, and earned the Central Junior A Hockey League “Roger Sénécal Award” for Volunteer of the Year (2005–2006). Beyond the Braves, he taught hundreds of children to skate and play hockey through the Brockville Minor Hockey Association and the Brockville Figure Skating Club, helping to build both their skills and confidence.

For 32 years, Bob worked at the Brockville Psychiatric Hospital, where his patience, reliability, and compassion were deeply valued. A dedicated Mason, he was a proud member of Sussex Lodge No. 5 for 55 years, living out the principles of fellowship and service.

Family was the true centre of Bob’s life. For 65 years, he was the devoted husband of Carol (Dobbie) Darling. He was the loving father of Sherry (David) Darling-Goldsmith, Steven Darling, and Doug Darling, and cherished “Grampa” to Alex (Claire), Ben, and Matthew Goldsmith, along with Cypress, Aspen, Braden, and Jacob Darling. Bob was the son of Walter Thurman and Cassie (Harken) Darling and was predeceased by his brothers Dan, Con, and George, and sisters Mary Rose Moore, Betty Wreaks, and Josephine Remple.

Remembered for his kindness, humility, and quiet dedication, Bob leaves behind a legacy woven into the arenas, families, and community he uplifted. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Friends and family may gather for visitation at the Barclay Funeral Home, 137 Pearl St. E., Brockville, on Monday November 3, 2025, from 6-8 pm. The Sussex Masonic Lodge No. 5 A.F. & A.M. will hold a Memorial Service at the Funeral Home at 5:45 p.m. with all sister Lodges invited to attend. Visitation continues on Tuesday November 4, 2025 from 11am - 1pm followed by the Funeral Service in the Chapel at 1pm. A private family burial service will be held at a later date. In memory of Bob, donations to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, Lanark Leeds Grenville Alzheimer Society, St. Lawrence & District Masonic Association or Brockville Senior Support Services – CPHC would be appreciated. Messages of condolence may be sent online at ​www.barclayfuneralhome.com​.