Robert “Bob” Van Hooren
February 4, 1965 – January 8, 2026
Bob took his final sip on January 8, 2026, staying lively right up until the end.
He was a guy with a quick wit, perfect timing for jokes, and a personality that lit up any room. Always entertaining, sharp with comments, and full of opinions. Bob had this knack for stirring up a bit of mischief wherever he went-sometimes by accident, sometimes totally on purpose-and yes, even his caregivers weren’t safe from it. He kept them guessing, cracked them up, and once in a while pushed their limits… usually all at once.
Golf was his true love; he talked about it nonstop no matter how well or badly his last game went. A big fan of the Montreal Canadiens too, he enjoyed watching any kind of sports and believed most problems could be eased with good friends and a cold beer. Bob knew how to have fun-and made sure everyone around him did as well.
His biggest love was his wife Diana (née Lombardi), who stood by him always-the steady rock who supported him without question and kept him grounded. He was also a dedicated dad to his son Jacob, sharing an unbreakable bond. And he held close memories of his twins Daniel and Andrea who passed away in 2001; they were never forgotten.
He leaves behind two sisters: Mary Ann Montagano and Patti Martin (Craig), both who loved him dearly through all their years together. His sister-in-law Rita Nolan (Lombardi) never hesitated to keep him in check when needed, and brother-in-law David Lombardi also survives him. Bob proudly called Yolanda and Domenic Lombardi his best in-laws-they meant the world to him.
Bob was also a caring uncle to nieces and nephews: Lauren Vilandre (Chris) with kids Harper and Gabriel; Michael Montagano (Erika) along with Luca and Leighton; Kyle Martin; Kelsea Martin (Alex Keys); Tamara Burke (Cameron); Tabitha Nolan; plus Domenic “Little D” Lombardi-many of whom have some great Uncle Bob stories!
His parents Andre Van Hooren (2013) and Diane Van Hooren (2024) predeceased him-they raised Bob and his sisters surrounded by love, laughter, and plenty of memories.
His closest buddy was cousin Dan Plante-those two shared endless laughs, long talks, plus many well-deserved “pop” moments. Their friendship was built on loyalty mixed with humor; those classic stories are only going to get louder over time.
And then there are Jax and Georgia-his dogs who seem confused why Dad hasn’t come back yet or why their treats show up late these days.
Bob lived life large: laughed hard, loved deeply-and left behind countless stories that’ll keep people smiling. Things feel quieter now-less sarcastic too-but everyone who cared about him will carry that spark forward while sharing tales over games or raising beers in tribute.
Our family wants to sincerely thank Dr Freeman for understanding Bob’s blunt way with words paired with remarkable patience & compassion; Dr Elfiki also earned our gratitude for quickly appreciating Bob’s straightforward style plus thoughtfully handling every question about decisions made. We’re grateful too for Dr Meloche along with the chemo suite staff & nurses on 4 North at WRH Met Campus-their care meant more than we can say. And huge thanks go out especially to Shelley – Bob’s home nurse – who realized early she’d met her match when the gloves came off but handled everything professionally & patiently throughout.
Visitation will be at Windsor Chapel Funeral Home (Banwell Chapel), 11677 Tecumseh Rd E (519-253-7235), Monday January 12th from 2-5pm & again from 7-9pm. Cremation follows afterward.
If you prefer donations instead of flowers please consider giving to “In Honour of the Ones We Love.”
