WAAS: Robert Keith of Grand Bend
Posted By Haskett Funeral Home On December 6, 2025 @ 5:23 PM In Exeter,Obituary | 37 Comments
It is with great sadness that we share Rob’s sudden passing on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at the age of 55. Beloved husband of Jeanne (Borowsky) Waas for 24 years. Survived by Jeanne’s daughters Charlotte Borowsky (Grand Bend), and Samantha Moore and her husband Robert Moore (Newmarket). Loving Opi of his 4 grandchildren, Grace, Camryn, Lauryn, and Katie. Cherished son of Delores (Schwartzentruber) Mohr. Dear brother and brother-in-law of Krista, Heidi and Patrick Sullivan, Betty Ann Mohr and Gary Privatt, and Colleen and Dean Wake. Fondly remembered by his many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family in Wales. Predeceased by his father Adam Waas and stepfather Earl Mohr.
With hearts full of love and gratitude for the light he brought into this world, we remember Rob—known most fondly as Opi—a gentle soul whose warmth touched every life he encountered. Rob passed away suddenly, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, and quiet wisdom that will continue to bloom in all who knew him.
For 26 beautiful years, Rob shared his life in Grand Bend with his beloved wife, Jeanne. Together they built a home rooted in love, compassion, and a deep respect for nature. Their lives were enriched by the many animals they rescued and cared for—dogs, cats, birds, hamsters, fish, a pet rat, and even a few cherished squirrels. Their home was always full of life, fur, feathers, and joy, each creature welcomed with the same tenderness they offered to everyone around them.
In the winter months, Rob and Jeanne found their second home in Barbados, where they spent precious time with dear friends. There, Rob was in his element—wading into the warm ocean, laughing as sea turtles swam around them, and soaking in the simple magic of island life. Those days were filled with sunshine, friendship, and the same sense of wonder he carried everywhere. The island became a place of renewal and pure joy for Rob, a sanctuary where his spirit felt especially free.
Rob’s family lovingly called him Opi, a name that reflected the warmth of his spirit. He was the devoted grandfather of Grace, Camryn, Lauryn, and Katie—four beautiful girls who adored him deeply. For Camryn and Lauryn, he held a special father-figure role, guiding them with patience, love, and unwavering support. The way Opi fit into our family made him feel more like a brother to Charlotte, Samantha, and Rob, sharing with them laughter, encouragement, and companionship that enriched their lives.
Rob had a gift for connecting with children. His presence radiated an effortless joy—he beamed a sunlight that could lift any spirit and spark a smile in even the cloudiest moments. Children were drawn to him, and he to them; his playful heart and gentle nature made him a safe haven for all.
For 25 years, Rob worked at McCann’s, where he was not only respected but truly cherished. To many of his colleagues, he was also like a brother. His meticulous care for his tools was legendary, and there was always lively competition over who would be lucky enough to have him on their team. His guidance, reliability, and calm leadership left an indelible mark on the workplace and the people within it.
In his earlier years, Rob shared his passion and creativity as a pyrotechnician. Anyone who watched the fireworks in Grand Bend during the early 2000s unknowingly witnessed his artistry lighting the sky. Alongside his friend Kevin, he crafted displays that filled summer evenings with awe and wonder.
Rob studied horticulture at the University of Guelph—a calling that blossomed beautifully throughout his life. His gardens were a reflection of his soul: vibrant, nurturing, and full of quiet magic. He had an innate connection with the earth, and those lacking a green thumb often turned to him for wisdom. The plants and landscapes he tended will continue to thrive as living reminders of his touch.
Rob loved the outdoors, especially when he could share it with the girls. Whether camping, hiking, or simply exploring the beauty of nature, he made each moment an adventure filled with curiosity, laughter, and love.
Rob’s spirit was gentle yet powerful, humble yet luminous. He leaves behind a trail of beauty—in the hearts he warmed, the gardens he tended, the children he uplifted, and the countless moments of joy he created.
May we honor him by carrying forward his kindness, his love for nature, and his ability to find wonder in the simple things. And may his soul continue to shine as brightly as the fireworks he once brought to life in the night sky.
He will be forever loved, forever missed, and forever remembered.
Visitation will be held at Haskett Funeral Home, 456 Main Street South, Exeter on Tuesday December 9th from 3 – 6 PM.
Rob’s funeral service will be held the following day on Wednesday, December 10th at Zurich Mennonite Church, 37818 Zurich Hensall Road, ZURICH at 11 AM. Private family interment at St. Peter’s Cemetery, London.
If you are unable to attend the service in person the family invites you to watch the service live or at your convenience by visiting https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfxOizePbEqadf43b6CzsxQ
Donations to Heart & Stroke Foundation, Diabetes Canada or Humane Society London & Middlesex would be appreciated by the family.
Condolences for the family of “WAAS: Robert Keith of Grand Bend”
Sending deepest sympathies to Rob’s entire family. He will be greatly missed!
Oh my gosh, Rob was such a wonderful, caring person. I am sorry sorry for your loss. You, Jeanne any everyone else are in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs
My deepest condolences to you all. The immense loss of such a good father, husband and friend so young is unimaginable. I pray for strength for your family. Sending you all our love.
Jeanne and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Rob as a quiet gentle man.
Jeanne, Charlotte, Sam and familes,
We are so sorry to hear of Rob’s passing. We just chatted with him at the church craft sale with him saying, “if Jeanne was there, he was there!”
He was a great guy and a friend to anyone he met.
Our deepest sympathy . May your beautiful memories be a blessing at this difficult time. Love to all!
I am so sorry to hear of Rob’s passing. I grew up with him and lost touch in my mid 20’s after I moved to Toronto. He was such a kind and caring person. He was a friend to so many growing up. Although I haven’t spoken to him in a long time, I have fond memories of him that I will cherish. He will be forever remembered for the kind person he was.
There is nothing I could say to ease the grief of losing your love. I did want you to know though that you are close in my thoughts.
Rob was a very special man. Kind, helpful and caring. He will missed by his many friends in Barbados, both at the beach and especially at Banyan Court. May he rest in peace. Susan
Rob will be truly missed by many. I know I was able to work with Rob many times over the last 25 years and he was very easy to get along with and knowledgeable about his work. Will miss you Rob. Rest in peace. Rob Marshall
IM SO SORRY MY HEART AND THOUGHTS TO THE FAMILY FOR YOUR LOSS MY PRAYERS TO YOU ALL🙏❤️
Jeanne, my heart breaks for you and your girls. What a huge loss. May his memory always be a blessing. Lots of love from Florida
xo Love Judi
Rob was an outstanding friend and neighbour. Always had the answers when chatting about best lawn care ideas. Happy man, who definitely gave his all to the family he loved. He will be dearly missed.
Jeanne and families,
Our families are shocked at the news, as are you. We send all our blessings to all. He was an amazing man and always cheerful and great to talk to. May all the memories be cherished in your ❤️
Hugs to all!
Jeanne & loving Family:
My heartfelt sympathy to you during this time of sorrow. Rob will be missed by all who knew his gentle soul.
Our sincere and deepest sympathies to Rob’s family at this difficult time of his sudden passing. Praying for comfort and peace as you continue through the coming weeks and months ahead 🩷
Dearest Jeanne and family,
We are so shocked and so very sorry to hear about Rob’s sudden passing.
We have no words as our love speaks in silence and we cannot imagine the heartbreak of all the family upon losing dear Rob.
You are in our most sincere thoughts and prayers.
Much love,
Jeanne and family,
So sorry to hear of your loss, our thoughts and prayers for wonderful family that shared a treasured life together.
Memories are treasured and ours of Rob’s will be remembered.
Jeanne and family,
So sorry to hear of your loss, our thoughts and prayers for wonderful family that shared a treasured life together.
Memories are treasured and ours of Rob’s will be remembered.
Jeanne and family, I am so very sorry for your loss.
Jeanne and family
Sincere sympathy on Rob’s passing.
God bless you all and keep you in His care as you mourn.
Delores, our sincere condolences to you and all of Rob’s family. We are so sorry for your loss. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
Jeanne, Shirley and I are in total shock at your loss. All your Barbados family are sending prayers and thoughts of Love and caring to you and yours. Stay strong and safe until we all meet again. Shirley & Tony
My deepest sympathy Jeanne and Family,
When you have a strong feeling that something is a sign from above, trust that feeling and feel the Love ♥️
Jeanne,
I am so very sorry to hear of Rob’s passing. Sending you & your family my deepest condolences.
I knew Robert “WAAS” from the Sterling men’s weekend. I found him to truly be a man of honour and have a tremendous amount of integrity. My deepest condolences to his friends and family. I will remember that smile.😊
Jeanne & Family our prayers and thoughts are with you at this difficult time
So sorry for your loss Jeanne and family❤️ ❤️
I am in shock. I worked with Rob for many years at McCanns and I am devastated to hear that Robbie is gone! I will never forget how kind and patient he was and how he would go above and beyond to help a fellow coworker out. Rob was a genuine person and I am heartbroken to hear of this news. I am thinking of Rob’s family at this time and I am so very sorry! The world just lost a good one and I will not forget him!
Jeanne & family – sending hugs and prayers on the loss of your Rob. He sure was a great guy.
Treasure all your wonderful memories.
Jeanne and family, I was so shocked to read of Rob’s passing! He was such a kind, and gentle man. Always welcoming, when we came to visit. My prayers and thoughts are with you!
Big hugs and love is sent your way!!
Jeanne and family, I had the pleasure of knowing Rob in his work element for the past 25 years, He was a great person to work with, communicate with and he always had a big smile. We are sorry for your loss and he will be missed by many.
Jeanne and family, I have no words to express my heartfelt condolences. Rob was the kindest, sweetest man who I will miss terribly.
Charlie and Angela also wanted to express their sorrow as they too saw what a wonderful person Rob was. He was so caring and sensitive.
all our hugs and love to you and the family
Our deepest sympathies to Rob’s family and friends.
Mike & Leanne Restemayer
My sincerest condolences to Rob’s family. I worked with Rob for 12 yrs at McCanns and considered him a friend. RIP Rob.
Jeannie, I am saddened to hear of Rob’s sudden passing. He was a wonderful man who will be missed by his family and many friends. My heart goes out to you and your girls.
Jeanne and Family,
I was heartbroken to hear of Rob’s passing. Although I didn’t know him well, I always felt his quiet, calm presence, and it was clear that he was a kind and gentle soul. It is heartbreaking that his life ended so suddenly and far too soon.
Please know that my thoughts are with you during this difficult time. I hope you find moments of comfort and strength in the days ahead, and in the memories you hold close.
With heartfelt sympathy,
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Jeanne and family,
So sorry to hear about Rob’s sudden death. Wishing you and your family peace and comfort now and in the days ahead. Your loss will be deeply felt and prayers are with you as you mourn a great role model.
A part of Rob will forever live in you and all those he loved.
Hugs,
Sharon Sanders