I've known Bob a lot less time than many others, only around 7 years, but he has been such a large part of the start of my married life with Jon. 

Meeting in laws is always one of those cliche scary moments, but I was very lucky to have met Karen and Bob, they were so welcoming and everyone in the family was so lovely.  Bob's laugh was so distinctive and catching, I can't count the number of times we had a giggle about the fact that there would be 2 Louises in the family when Jon and I married! 

Sometimes I have to admit, I felt lost when it came to Bob's stories about the Foundry, watches, bells and technical details I didn't have a clue about - but he spoke with such passion and knowledge. During those initial few months of getting to know the family it quickly became clear Jon had inherited Bob's chattiness!

Bob, to so many, was Mr fix it - I couldn't believe his practical knowledge and skills. I thought my Dad was pretty handy at DIY but Bob was a whole different level! I quickly realised this natural ability unfortunately hasn't passed down to Jon, so it makes me laugh to think of all the times we've had something happen and he instinctively phoned Bob. And he always knew what to do. He always explained so patiently, even though those things were probably common sense to him. I think Jon and I are in for some DIY adventures later in life without his guidance! 

I joined the family for lovely holidays in Dorset and Wales , amazing scenery and so nice to spend time together. We did have a rather memorable day when the car got stuck halfway up a remote Dorset hill - Bob was most disgruntled to not be able to fix it, but I think secretly rather enjoyed the ride with Jason in the RAC tow truck and trip to the garage to chat with the mechanics! 

Karen and Bobs 40th wedding anniversary celebrations were such a memorable event, at the time Jon and I were not yet married so I didn't have a clue who most of the people were, but they were all lovely and I remember thinking at the time - Karen and Bob are special people, to have such lovely and loyal friends and family.  They both have inspired me to be better a better friend to those I meet on life's journey. 

Of course Jon and my wedding was such a special memory, so many happy things happened that day and we were so blessed to have Bob there, laughing away at the best man's jokes and grinning from ear to ear! 

Many people knew Bob loved the outdoors and fishing, the care he took over the garden and pond was lovely to see, and I know it brought him closer to his Creator and gave him much joy and peace to enjoy being outside. We have many happy memories together as a family enjoying being in the garden he and Karen tended to so faithfully. 

We have also had so many family meals together, Bob loved his food - so I look forward to the day we can all share a meal together again in God's kingdom.