May 15, 1954 – July 8, 2024
at the age of 70 years:     

Robert Michael Chmilar (Rob) passed away after a short battle with cancer on Monday, July 8th, 2024, at Shuswap Lake General Hospital at the age of 70 years.

Rob was born in Vancouver on May 15, 1954. The family purchased the Hart Hotel in Pouce Coupe and lived there from age 10 until he was 16. The family then moved to Courtenay where he graduated from high school and continued with his post-secondary schooling in Business Administration at Malaspina College in Nanaimo. His nickname was “Wang” and he was known for the canned music he prepared for the Business Club dances. He had fond memories working the summers for the Department of Highways in Courtenay.

Rob and Peggy met and attended the same college so they could be together. They were married in the summer of 1978 in Courtenay. 4 months later, they moved to Sicamous and took ownership of Caesar’s Inn Neighbourhood Pub with Rob’s’ parents. Robs brother Richard and his wife Lorri moved to Sicamous shortly after to join the family in transitioning the business to Brothers Pub.

Rob and Peggy welcomed 4 children that kept them very busy. After 41 years in the business, they sold and entered into retirement (2 months before COVID). They spent the majority of their summers at their cabin outside of Revelstoke.

Rob enjoyed music (specifically, The Beatles and the Rolling Stones), hockey, golf, football (Chicago Bears), woodworking, spending time with his family, pranking the staff at Brothers, and eventually, doting and spoiling his granddaughter. Rob also enjoyed traveling both internationally and within North America, plus his annual trips with his fantasy football crew. You could find him with the Happy Hour Boys on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Rob loved to cause mischief and tomfoolery. His day would not be complete without a jab at his Fantasy Football Boys or razzing a certain gal in town about her “Sh*thawks”.

Rob is survived by his loving family, including his wife of 45 years, Peggy Chmilar, children, Stephen, Kelsey (Yanne), Monica and Lee, plus his adored grandchild, Sophie. He is also survived by his brother Richard (Lorri), nephews and a niece.

Rob was predeceased by his parents, Irene and Alex Chmilar.

There will not be a service as per Rob’s request. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Rob’s family here.

Donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Sicamous Food Bank on his behalf.