It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert John Hay, on October 29,2020 at the age of 66 years. 

Robert was born on January 2nd, 1954, to George and Annie Hay, and raised in Renwer, MB. He was the third born and eldest son of nine siblings. He attended Duncanville School and lived the early part of his life in Renwer, where he learned to run CAT from his dad and grandpa John. When Robert was old enough, he began working with his dad as an equipment operator on road construction. Eventually he began working between Ontario and Manitoba, this is when his three sons were born in Minitonas, Rob, Cory, and Shane Ferland. Robert continued working as a heavy equipment operator and eventually moved west settling in High River Alberta where his fourth son Tommy Hamelin was born. He continued working road construction as a buggy operator.  

Robert had met the love of his life Gwen Chartrand earlier in life and they had a daughter together, Ruby Chartrand. After several years apart Robert and Gwen reunited and married in 2001. This is when his many years of employment with Brandson Construction began.  He enjoyed travelling and working the train derailments and loved the busy harvest season.  Robert was Donnie and AJ’s Right Hand Man.  He said it took a few years, but he finally got Don to crack a smile.  Gwen and Robert lived in Minitonas and always enjoyed entertaining and having a good time together. They cherished all these moments with each other and with family and friends.  Robert was a great outdoorsman he enjoyed hunting, fishing, trapping camping, quadding, cutting wood, gardening, and sharing his knowledge with his grandchildren. He loved to take Gwen and go on quadding trips to Kettle Hills, Pelican Creek, and White Sands Lake. Robert loved a good party, and he had a great sense of humour! He especially loved to tease and tell wild stories.  Most of all he enjoyed watching his grandkids play hockey, travelling near and far to every game.  He enjoyed life to the fullest.  

Robert was predeceased by his parents George and Annie Hay.  

He leaves to mourn his loving wife Gwen Hay and their daughter Ruby Chartrand; his sons Rob Hay (Laurie), Cory Ferland (Janeen), Shane Ferland (Amanda), and Tommy Hamelin (Jordan); he leaves his beloved grandchildren and step grandchildren who are all honorary Pall Bearers; he leaves to mourn his 8 siblings Ann Flatfoot, Francis Bradley (Dwayne), Phylis Terry (Merv Leslie), Sandra Klatt (Richard), George Hay(Cindy), Olive Cottyn (Arleigh), Eddy Hay, Karen Hay (Gord Storozuk) and numerous nieces and nephews who Robert shared a special connection with each and every one of them. 

Lovingly Remembered, Robert John Hay, 

Rest In Peace.