Obituary of Robert Dickinson Pond
With hearts both heavy and full of hope, we announce that Robert (Bob) Dickinson Pond of Trois-Rivières, Québec, entered into the presence of his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, on November 20, 2024 at the age of 60. Bob passed away peacefully at the Red Deer Hospice, surrounded by the love and prayers of his family.
Born on July 30, 1964, in Trois-Rivières, QC, Bob grew up in the vibrant landscapes of Trois-Rivières and Grand-Mère, near the Vallée du Parc ski hill. An avid skier and ski racer from an early age, he found joy and challenge on the slopes—a passion he carried throughout his life. But most profoundly, Bob’s heart was awakened to the reality of God’s presence from a young age. At the age of 21, Bob surrendered his life to Jesus Christ, a decision that forever transformed him. His deep love for Christ became the driving force of his life, shaping every decision, relationship, and calling.
In the summer of 1987, while working in the beautiful Rocky Mountains, Bob met Wendy, his beloved wife and partner in life and ministry. They were married on April 22, 1988, and shared 36 years of steadfast love, devotion, and friendship. Together, they raised three cherished children - Ben (February 1989), Pascale (December 1990), and Philip (February 1993) - nurturing a home centered on faith, love, and adventure.
Later in life, Bob and Wendy were blessed with 4 grandchildren, and Bob found deep enjoyment in being their grandfather, and watching them grow.
Through every season of life, Bob and Wendy served as a united team, committed to showing Christ’s love to others. Whether on the mission field, at work, or at home, Bob radiated grace, encouragement, and an unwavering trust in God’s plan.
Bob’s early career as a ski instructor showcased his determination and skill, earning him the prestigious Level 4 CSIA certification. Yet, it was his commitment to following Jesus that led him to answer God’s call to full-time ministry. In January 1990, while managing the Hidden Valley Ski School, Bob took a leap of faith and enrolled at Bethel Bible School in Sherbrooke, QC. After graduation, he pastored at Huntingville Community Church (1994–1996) before answering God's call into cross-cultural ministry in Madagascar.
From 1997 to 2004, Bob and Wendy dedicated their lives to supporting isolated churches and pastors in the rainforests of Madagascar, demonstrating the love of Christ to a region in deep need. Returning to Canada in 2004, Bob completed a Master’s degree at Briercrest Seminary in Caronport, SK, before serving as a Pastor in Terrace, BC, at the Evangelical Free Church for 11 years. In Terrace, Bob and Wendy formed rich friendships and delighted in the natural beauty of the mountains.
In 2019, Bob stepped away from his pastoral role to prepare for a new season of overseas ministry. After briefly working at a pellet plant - a role he embraced with humility and enthusiasm - Bob and Wendy moved to Guinea, West Africa, in 2022. There, they ministered to the Baga people and supported fellow missionaries. Bob always had a deep passion to see the word of God spreading, and while in Guinea he started a project to record scripture into audio, so that people who cannot read would be able to hear the word of God.
While in Guinea, Bob's health began deteriorating, and in April 2024, Bob and Wendy returned to Canada. Later that month he was diagnosed with AL-Amyloidosis, a rare and incurable blood disease. Despite facing many complications, Bob’s faith remained unshaken. On November 20, 2024 Bob completed his earthly race and went home to be with his Lord, where he is now fully healed and rejoicing in the presence of Jesus.
Bob's legacy is one of obedience, faith, and love. His deep desire was to be remembered as a man who found peace in this life and the next, through his relationship with Jesus Christ.
Bob is lovingly remembered by his wife Wendy; their children Ben (Sheena) Pond, Pascale (Jordan) Friesen, and Philip Pond; and their grandchildren Elijah, Sebastian, Averie, and Edwin. He is also survived by his siblings Jim (Nicole) Pond, Terry Pond, and Nancy Laflamme, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, James and Hermance Pond, his niece Melanie, and his sister-in-law Patricia.
To God be the glory for Bob’s life and testimony. He will be dearly missed, yet we rejoice in the assurance that he is now at peace with his Saviour.
You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. - Psalm 16:11
A celebration of life will be held at Harvest Hills Alliance Church, in Calgary, AB, on December 7, 2024 at 3:00 pm. We hope to offer a live stream for those unable to attend.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to Pioneer Bible Translators of Canada, gift designated to “Bible in Audio”, West Africa Branch, at pioneerbible.org. Donations may also be made to the Red Deer Hospice Society at reddeerhospice.com. Condolences for Bob's family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net. Please indicate “Pond” in the subject line.
Arrangements in care of
Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service
A locally owned cremation and funeral provider
serving Red Deer and all of Central Alberta
587-876-4944