BAECHLER: Robert Francis of Goderich
Posted By Haskett Funeral Homes On September 7, 2026 @ 9:09 PM In Goderich, No Donations, Obituary | 38 Comments
September 21, 1943 – August 25, 2026
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Robert Francis Baechler, a beloved father, a beloved papa, great-grandfather, and friend, who left us peacefully on August 25, 2026. Born and raised in Goderich, Robert lived a life full of deep connections, vibrant adventures, and enduring love.
He is now reunited with his beloved wife and soulmate, Ann Larraine Baechler (Miller), whom he wed on April 8, 1967. Together, they built a beautiful legacy. Robert was predeceased by his parents, Claire Francis Baechler and Olive Melinda Baechler (Hill) of Goderich.
A Life Filled with Passion and Connection
Robert was a man who truly loved people. He possessed the genuine gift of gab, and whether he was talking to a lifelong friend or a stranger, he brought warmth, a sharp sense of humour, and an endless supply of jokes and short stories to every conversation. For 36 years, he and Larraine owned and operated Baechler Kitchens and Interiors, where he could always be found working with a tape measure at his side, a pencil in his hand, and a smile in his heart for all his loyal customers.
Beyond the store, ‘Captain Robbie’s’ true home was on the water. While he cherished his peaceful summer getaways sailing the North Channel on the Sea Gypsy, his passion lay in navigating the vibrant, warm waters of the Caribbean.
Closer to home, Robert thrived on friendship and good company. He loved nothing more than shooting pool with his close group of friends, where they shared many laughs over the green felt table. He also deeply cherished his weekly dinner club traditions, gathering with dear friends to explore, dine, and swap stories at local restaurants.
He went by many names — Robert, Mr. B, Captain Robbie, Bob, and Papa — but to those who knew his deepest love, the best and most meaningful name of all was Dad.
Family Legacy
His love lives on through his children: Louise (Brad Priestap) of Goderich; and Scott (Becca) Baechler of Niagara Falls. Papa to his grandchildren, Brandon (Holly), Brent (Robyn), of Goderich Sebastian, Hannah, and Brooklyn of Niagara Falls; and his beautiful, fun-loving great-grandchildren, Barret, Camy, Miller, and Baker all of Goderich.
Service Details
A private Celebration of Robert’s life has taken place, and, in accordance with his final wishes, cremation has occurred. If you would like to donate in Robert’s memory, you may do so by e-transfers to Louise at 519-525-9724 and text ‘Dad’, or by cheque to PO Box 215 Station Main, Goderich, Ontario, N7A 3Z2. The donations will be distributed to a dedication bench / plaque overlooking his beloved Lake Huron, and to the Southbridge Long-Term Care Facility. Robert’s family extends their deepest gratitude to Dr. Spacek, as well as the Southbridge nurses and staff on the 6th Floor “Lighthouse” for their extraordinary care and compassion for our Dad.
Dad, chase the Huron waves,
And cut them till they froth a foamy white.
Guide Sea Gypsy through the Swells,
Till the shore fades from sight.
Then when the sun is overhead,
Across the sun washed deck, you’ll lie—
to gently close your eyes
And walk the endless sky.
We love you, Daddy.
Condolences for the family of “BAECHLER: Robert Francis of Goderich”
Condolences to the family at this difficult time
Cherish the ‘numerous good times’
We always enjoyed our jovial chats with Robert over the years and upon conclusion that ever present wave good by and infectious smile
-Roelie & Al Leggatt
We are so sorry for the loss of your dad, Scott. His legacy stands strong and will be carried on by you and your family.
Louise, Scott and Families, I was saddened to hear of Robert’s passing, He was a good friend from back to our High School years, through our working years and through retirement. he like I was an avid post card collector, and we shared our collections with each other. Lorraine and he were a great couple, and I’m sure there together again catching up on the news of Family and loved ones. R.I.P. Robert
Our deepest sympathies to all. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
We are so very sorry for your loss, Baechler family. Robert was always a fun man, who had no end of funny stories and anecdotes when he came in to the pharmacy. And in a conversation, he showed genuine interest in what you were saying. Not everyone does that. He’ll be missed! John & Lisa De Jager
Robert and I had many, many meaningful conversations, and he will be missed by me because if this. My heartfelt sympathy go to the Baechler family.
My condolences to you all..your dad and mom made me most welcome when I arrived in Goderich.
Rented the apartment above the store…our thoughts are with you
Our condolences to Robert’s family. Always enjoyed being in his company. Always good stories. He will be at peace being back with the love of his life.
Dear Louise, Scott and your families,
My sincere condolences on the passing of your Dad ( Grandpa ) I don’t have a doubt in my mind , that your Mom was waiting for him, with open arms. ❤️ I’m sending you all a big hug, filled with lots of love.
So sorry for your loss…I only met your father once, August 2020, parked in front of his house, called him, told him to look out the front window, and sitting on the curb was the 1977 Trans Am he had owned for 3 yrs back in the late 70’s. He sat in it, and I asked him if he wanted to take it for a drive! He drove it around a few blocks, you couldn’t have pried the grin off his face that day! Had a great chat for an hour or so….I still remember the stories he told me when he owned it…may he rest in peace.
Sorry for your loss
Our heartfelt condolences and prayers to the whole family. God bless🙏
Louise We were neighbors for a few years and we could not have had better ones. Your dad was a people lover and you could tell that just talking to him. You will miss him terribly but mom will be glad to see him. Thinking of you and your family.
My heart feels for you, Louise, Scott & your families. Condolences to all! He will be missed!!!
Dear Louise and Family: Thinking of you! Sincerely Liz Herman xo
Dear Baechler Family
We extend our sincere condolences, at this sad time.
Gayle and Barron Purser
A great customer of Casual Industries….Will miss your story telling Rob. RIP my friend. Doug
My condolences to Roberts family!!! It was always a pleasure to interact with him whether it was for business or visit in the street!!! Cherish your memories!!!!
We will be thinking of the entire family. Sending loads of love and hugs your way. Robert was a wonderful man who will be deeply missed.
Xxx
Danielle & Anthony
So sorry to read that Robert has died. I will remember him and all the good times. May he rest in peace.
Please accept my condolences. Karen Sturdy
Scott, Louise and family
I was sorry to hear of your dad’s passing.
Please accept my sincere condolences, your mom and dad were wonderful neighbours!!
What a lovely tribute to honour a life well lived. Our condolences to Scott, Becca, and the rest of the family.
I am sorry to hear of your loss. They made such a wonderful couple …. And now reunited forever. They did such a great job at the store always so helpful and really knew their products. Always enjoyed visiting with your mom too in our Sorority Circle. Wishing you comfort. Maybe he rest in peace.
I am sorry to hear of Roberts passing, find memories of visiting him at Southbridge, may be rest in peace
Dear Louise , Scott – and family –
Robert and Lorraine- special in our community – special to know and always remembered – ❤️
With caring and sympathy -,
Cecelia and Don Denomme
Sincerest condolences Louise and Scott and your Families on the loss of your Dear Father. He was a great neighbour, great man and all round great guy. He will be missed. …. Tag and Heather
Sending our sincere condolences to your family.
Robert was kind, caring and interested in almost everything and everybody. He would pop out of the store if he saw you going past and update you on friends who were back in town for the weekend or what friends were ill. What a bright star in the universe! Will miss his enthusiasm and joy of life.
Jo-Anne & Keith Homan
Dan and I extend our deepest sympathies to you, Louise and Scott, and your families on the passing of your Dad. Cherish those wonderful memories!
To Scott, Louise & families…we were very saddened to learn that Robert has passed away. We valued the wonderful service both Larraine and Robert consistently provided for us, and equally the great chats and friendships we shared. When we changed our minds at the last minute and decided to install carpet in our office just before the move in date Robert got the carpet in and installed in time…and it was just before Christmas! That was typical and we will never forget either Robert or Larraine. Our sincere condolences…Gene & Becky
Louise – We like to think Lorraine and Robert are together again, sailing out there in the infinite blue- Lorraine keeping an eye on their course ;-) our sincere condolences to you and your family.
Louise, Brad and family: We are so very sorry for your loss. Thinking of you.
Louise, Scott and families – we were so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing but know he is at peace with your Mom. We shared some fun sailing adventures together and always enjoyed chatting with both your Mom and Dad at the store. Sending our deepest sympathy to all of you.
Louise, Scott & families – My sincere condolences on the passing of your Dad. I always enjoyed my conversations with Robert, and one thing that was always so clear was just how incredibly proud he was of his family. Family meant everything to him, and I know he will be deeply missed. Sending hugs and strength during this difficult time.
Dear Scott, Louise and family
Your Dad was always a happy friendly fellow. We always enjoyed our talks with Robert.
Sending our condolences from
John and Connie Harrison
I was very pleased to meet Robert back in 2017 when his boat Sea Gypsy was for sale. Seeing it was a fine boat, a rare model (Ontario 28) and well appointed with Robert’s fine touches, it was not a hard decision for my wife Sally and me to to make to buy that boat. Now almost ten years later we still feel in many ways this is Robert’s boat. He was the original owner for 40 years – we have taken over as only the second owners. Our deep condolences to Louise, Scott and family. I suspect we will feel his presence as we ply the waves off Bayfield and enjoy the fair winds and beautiful skies over Lake Huron. He is always welcome on board.
Alex Shevchuk and Sally Leitch
To Scott and Louise and their families.
There will never be another man quite like Robert in our life.In the 66 years we have known him, never did he ever have a bad word to say about anyone. Always the familiar wave, whether he knew you or not. Also would service you to no end at his store.We were together countless times at New Years, parties, restaurants, family gatherings on both sides and never a cross word ever crossed his or our lips at each other. I remember getting him to join Kinsmen in 1962 and what a great time we had.What a shame he was not able to enjoy his last couple of years but he is now in a better place.
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To the family of Robert
Our thoughts are with you and know that all your good memories will help you through this most difficult time and remember your Dad/Grandpa is at peace now that he is back with the love of his life.