Obituary of Robert Hendrik Alexander Vlug PEng

Robert Hendrik Alexander Vlug passed away peacefully on Monday, October 2, 2023. Robert was born on November 2, 1943, in Haarlem, the Netherlands, to the late Hendrick and Johanna (Vandermeer) Vlug. 

Robert will be dearly missed by his wife of 54 years, Deanna (Renton) Vlug, son Owen Vlug and his wife Michelle, daughter Sara Vlug and her husband Byron Barton, brothers; Tom Vlug, Eric Vlug (Elizabeth), and Hans Vlug (Cathy), grandchildren; Christopher and Nathan Vlug, cousin Maria Vandermeer (Harry Myer), and several nieces and nephews. 

In addition to his parents, Robert was predeceased by his sister-in-law Elizabeth (Tom). 

Robert was an Electrical Engineer at Point Lepreau for many years. After retirement he started his own company, Eastern Outdoors. He loved to be able to share his passion for the outdoors and his love of kayaking with everyone. Everyone who knew Robert, would say,” Eastern Outdoors FOR LIFE!”.   He taught numerous kayak courses over the years and enjoyed kayaking with anyone who was interested in either learning or the next adventure. He was truly an outdoor enthusiast. Robert also loved his tractor, driving across North America to deliver kayaks, driving a potato truck in Bath, NB and had a passion for photography.  Robert loved his home in Dipper Harbour and would often say that there was nowhere he would rather be.

Arrangements are under the care of Castle Funeral Home, 309 Lancaster Ave, Saint John, NB E2M 2L3, 506-634-1701. Visitation will be held on Friday, October 6 from 3:00 PM -8:00 PM. A Memorial Service will take place on Saturday, October 7 at 2:00 PM in Castle Fallsview Chapel. In lieu of flowers donations in Robert’s memory can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or a charity of the donor’s choice.