Obituary of Robert Jose Magtanong

MAGTANONG, Robert Jose – Bob passed away peacefully surrounded by family, at Bluewater Health on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at the age of 57.  Brother of Betty Latosinsky (Rob), Sarnia and Ted (Vera Vanderschot), Sarnia.  Special Cousin to Vic (Anita).  Loving Uncle of Berni, Isaiah, Mika, Michelle Latosinsky (Ryan), Dr. Alex Latosinsky (Dr. Eryn) and Chris Latosinsky.  Loving Grand Uncle to Arlo and August Latosinsky.  Pre-deceased by his parents Alejandro Pabustan (2023) and Leonides Jose (2019), and his sister Ginia (1960).  

Bob was born in the Philippines on December 12, 1966.  He grew up in Sarnia as the youngest of the family and he often got into trouble pushing the boundaries of his parents’ love and patience.  Bob graduated from the University of Windsor and Brock University with degrees in Psychology and Business, respectively. He worked in Montreal, Chicago and Toronto as a financial trader. 

Bob lived a full life.  He loved sailing, eating good food, traveling the world, and driving his motorcycles and various sport cars.  He especially cherished his nieces and nephews, spoiling them and trying to be the Best Uncle Ever.  Bob made friends easily wherever he went.  Many of his Clarke Road School and Northern Collegiate friends have remained close, as well as many work colleagues and fellow sailors.

After Bob had heart surgery 11 years ago, he knew he had a limited amount of time left.  He moved back to Sarnia to be close to his family.  He adopted a rescue dog, Zoie who has since become the “family dog”.  Even with the many medical issues he experienced, Bob lived life optimistically and with gratitude.

Bob’s family would like to thank the many people, especially his numerous friends, who have reached out, as well as the staff at Bluewater Health for their support over the years.  

As per Bob’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held 11 a.m. on Sunday, May 5 at the Sarnia Yacht Club.  As an expression of sympathy, friends who wish, may send memorial donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, or the Sarnia Yacht Club – Sail Training, or the charity of your choice.  

Messages of condolence and memories may be left at www.mckenzieblundy.com