Bob Gould of Petrolia, Ontario, died on October 9, 2026, at St. Joseph’s Hospice in Sarnia following a brief illness. He was remembered as a former professional hockey player, a dedicated educator, a loving husband, and a proud father and grandfather whose life touched people both on and off the ice.
His passing marks the loss of a man whose career spanned professional hockey and more than two decades in education. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bob was known to his family as a devoted husband and grandfather who treasured spending time with the people closest to him.
He shared 45 years of marriage with his wife, Janice Gould, née Piggott. Together, they raised their family and built a life filled with sports, friendships, and cherished memories.
Bob Gould’s Life and Family Legacy
Bob was a devoted father to Todd (Ashley), Blair (Jennifer), and Dayna (Joe) De Boer. He was also a proud grandfather to six granddaughters: Ella, Ruby, Charlotte, Tess, Hannah De Boer, and Chloe De Boer.
Being part of his grandchildren’s lives brought him tremendous happiness. He made time to attend their sporting events, performances, and other activities, cheering them on from the sidelines or watching rinkside.
His family also remembered his playful side. Whether building sandcastles, playing hide-and-seek, or joining endless rounds of I Spy, Bob found joy in the simple experiences that brought everyone together. He was known for indulging his granddaughters when they asked for an extra treat.
Those everyday moments reflected the importance he placed on family. His legacy extends beyond his career accomplishments to the relationships he nurtured and the memories he created with those he loved.
A Professional Hockey Career That Spanned More Than a Decade
Sports played a significant role throughout Bob’s life, beginning with his early interest in hockey and continuing through his professional career.
He played in the National Hockey League for more than 10 years, with connections to the University of New Hampshire and professional hockey organizations associated with Calgary, Washington, and Boston.
During his years in the sport, Bob developed friendships that continued long after his playing career ended. His enthusiasm was not limited to hockey; he also enjoyed fastball and golf, sharing those interests with friends and family.
After retiring as a professional player, he remained involved in hockey through coaching. He passed on his experience to younger players and teams, helping others improve their skills and develop an appreciation for the game.
His contribution to sports became one part of a much broader life defined by commitment, teamwork, and lasting personal connections.
From Professional Athlete to Dedicated Teacher
After his hockey career, Bob and Janice returned to Lambton County with their children and settled on a farm outside Oil Springs, Ontario.
Bob then began a second professional chapter in education. Over the following 24 years, he taught at Riverview Central School and LCCVI, becoming part of the lives of students and colleagues throughout the region.
His experience in professional sports and coaching gave him an understanding of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance that complemented his work in the classroom.
For Bob, retirement from hockey did not mean stepping away from helping others learn and grow. Teaching provided another opportunity to share his knowledge and build meaningful relationships.
His years in education stand alongside his sporting achievements as an important part of the life he built in Lambton County.
Family and Friends Remember Bob Gould
Bob was the brother of Gord (Kathy) and Jim (Karen). His extended family included sisters- and brothers-in-law Elaine (Tom) Dobbin, Bob Piggott, and Larry (Maureen) Piggott, as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.
He was predeceased by his parents, Orville and Gertrude (Cowan) Gould.
Those closest to Bob will remember his love of sports, his friendships, his dedication to education, and the affection he showed his family. His willingness to show up for his granddaughters and take part in their lives reflected the importance he placed on being present for those he loved.
His death has left a significant void among his relatives, former teammates, colleagues, former students, and the many people who shared experiences with him over the years.
Funeral Arrangements and Celebration of Life
Bob’s family has arranged a private graveside service.
Friends, former teammates, colleagues, and others wishing to honour his memory are invited to a Celebration of Life on Thursday, October 15, 2026, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Wyoming Fairgrounds, 595 Main Street, Wyoming, Ontario.
The gathering will provide an opportunity for those who knew Bob to share memories, reconnect, and celebrate the life of a man whose experiences extended from professional hockey to the classroom and his beloved family.
Bob Gould Obituary and Cause of Death
Obituary: Bob Gould of Petrolia, Ontario, died on October 9, 2026, at St. Joseph’s Hospice in Sarnia. A former NHL player and educator, he devoted more than a decade to professional hockey before spending 24 years teaching at Riverview Central School and LCCVI. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Janice, his three children, six granddaughters, siblings, extended family, and many friends.
Cause of Death: According to the supplied obituary, Bob died following a very brief illness. The specific medical cause of death was not disclosed in the information provided.
Bob Gould leaves behind a legacy shaped by his accomplishments in sports, his years in education, and his devotion to family. His memory will live on through the people he taught, the teammates and friends he made, and the family moments that meant so much to him.
May he rest in peace, and may his loved ones find comfort in the many memories they shared.