Bob Gould Obituary, Death – Former NHL Player and Beloved Teacher Dies at St. Joseph’s Hospice

Bob Gould of Petrolia, Ontario, passed away on October 9, 2026, at St. Joseph’s Hospice in Sarnia following a very brief illness. A former professional hockey player, dedicated educator, loving husband, father, and grandfather, Bob leaves behind a legacy shaped by his passion for sports, commitment to teaching, and devotion to his family.

Bob was the beloved husband of Janice Gould, née Piggott, with whom he shared 45 years of marriage. Together, they built a family and a life filled with lasting memories, friendships, and a love of the activities that brought them together.

He was a proud father to Todd (Ashley), Blair (Jennifer), and Dayna (Joe) De Boer. His six granddaughters, Ella, Ruby, Charlotte, Tess, Hannah De Boer, and Chloe De Boer, brought him immense happiness. Bob especially enjoyed being present for their activities, whether he was watching from the stands, cheering from the sidelines, sitting rinkside, or attending performances and events.

His family remembered him as a fun-loving grandfather who could rarely resist his granddaughters’ requests. From giving them an extra treat to building sandcastles and playing endless rounds of I Spy and hide-and-seek, he treasured the simple moments that made family life special.

A Lifelong Passion for Hockey and Sports

Bob’s love of sports began early and remained a defining part of his life. He played in the National Hockey League for more than 10 years, with his hockey journey taking him to the University of New Hampshire and professional stops associated with Calgary, Washington, and Boston.

Throughout his playing career, Bob developed friendships that lasted well beyond the rink. His enthusiasm for sports extended beyond hockey to fastball and golf, activities he enjoyed sharing with friends and family.

After his professional playing days ended, Bob continued contributing to the sport as a coach. He shared his knowledge and experience with numerous teams, helping others develop their skills and deepen their appreciation for hockey.

A Dedicated Educator in Lambton County

Following his retirement from professional hockey, Bob and Janice returned to Lambton County with their children, settling on a farm outside Oil Springs. He then began a second career in education, teaching for 24 years at Riverview Central School and LCCVI.

His years in the classroom marked another important chapter in a life devoted to connecting with people and sharing what he knew. His experience as an athlete and coach complemented his work as a teacher, allowing him to bring his understanding of teamwork, discipline, and commitment into his professional life.

Outside work, Bob remained closely involved in the lives of his family members. His willingness to attend his granddaughters’ sporting events and other activities reflected how much he valued being present for the people he loved.

Family and Loved Ones Remember Bob

Bob was the dear brother of Gord (Kathy) and Jim (Karen). He was also a brother-in-law to Elaine (Tom) Dobbin, Bob Piggott, and Larry (Maureen) Piggott. In addition to his immediate family, he leaves behind many friends, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, Orville and Gertrude (Cowan) Gould.

Those who knew Bob will remember the impression he made through his personality, friendships, love of sports, and dedication to his family and career. His family expressed deep sadness at his passing while emphasizing that the happy memories they created together will remain a lasting source of comfort.

Funeral and Celebration of Life Arrangements

A private graveside service will be held for the family.

Family members, friends, and others wishing to remember Bob are invited to attend a Celebration of Life on Thursday, October 15, 2026, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Wyoming Fairgrounds, located at 595 Main Street in Wyoming, Ontario.

As loved ones gather to celebrate his life, they will remember a man whose journey took him from professional hockey to the classroom and, above all, to the family he cherished.

Bob Gould will be deeply missed by Janice, his children and grandchildren, his extended family, former teammates, colleagues, students, and the many friends he made throughout his life. His love for sports and the people around him leaves behind memories that his family will continue to treasure for years to come.