It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Robert (Bob) Joseph Dooley, age 73, at the QEII Halifax Infirmary on November 17, 2025. Bob was born in Halifax and was the eldest child of the late Joseph and Millie (LeBlanc) Dooley.

Bob owned and operated Ace Upholstery Limited for over 45 years until selling the company and officially retiring in 2021. He was known for providing excellent quality work and outstanding customer service, earning a loyal clientele. Many Haligonians have likely enjoyed Ace Upholstery’s craftsmanship—whether at a local restaurant, the office, or while relaxing at home.

An equal passion of Bob’s was his love of music. He joined his first band in junior high as a drummer, forming friendships that would last a lifetime. He had a deep appreciation for Maritime music, especially Celtic and folk traditions. Bob was best known as a member of the Halifax-based band McGinty, working alongside Don Moore and the late Dave Hickey and John Ferguson; later, Roger Stone and Joe Breen also joined the group. He managed the band and served as its sound technician, helping shape McGinty’s signature style. McGinty performed across Canada, the United States, Iceland, Ireland, and the Dominican Republic, sharing the music Bob cherished with audiences near and far. He was also devoted to supporting the next generation of musicians and proudly managed the band Highland Heights for several years.

In retirement, Bob rekindled his love of drumming, creating a dedicated space at home where he welcomed friends to admire his full kit and impressive collection of snare drums. He also developed a talent for restoring vintage drums for many of his fellow musicians. In addition, he discovered a new passion for gardening. In true Bob fashion, he didn’t settle for a simple plot, rather he threw himself into building a backyard oasis, growing tomatoes, peppers, onions, beans, and herbs, all carefully tended after meticulous research on how to cultivate the best possible harvest. He also treasured time spent with his dogs, especially his beloved pug, Maeve.

Bob had countless close friends throughout his life, many of whom turned to him for sage advice, steady guidance, and a healthy dose of humour. The stories and shenanigans are far too many to list, but it was clear they began early, especially with his younger siblings and childhood friends. He lived and loved life to the fullest. His warmth, wit and easy smile were integral to who he was. One of his favourite sayings was “go big or stay home,” and he practiced this mantra daily. Bob will be thoroughly missed by all who knew him.

By far, Bob’s greatest accomplishment and proudest honour was becoming a dad to Emma and Bridget. He often said he had “won the lottery” by being their father. He was a devoted dad and deeply loved his girls to his core.

Bob is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Linda Rodie; his daughters, Emma and Bridget; his sisters, Nancy and Peggy; his brothers, Bill (Jennifer) and Patrick (Nicole); his nieces and nephews, Damien, Margaret, Emmett, Jack, Marin, and Taylor; his great-nephew, Jacob; and his mother-in-law, Jill Rodie. In addition to his family, Bob was surrounded by many close friends who brought joy to his life in infinite ways.

Cremation has taken place under the care and direction of T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, Beechville. A celebration of Bob’s life will be held in the community hall at St. George's Greek Orthodox Church, 1146 Purcells Cove Rd, Halifax, on Friday, December 5, 2025 from 1-3pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Bob may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada or Feed Nova Scotia. Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.tjtracey.com.