Roger Joseph "Bomber" Garabb of Sydney, N.S. passed away peacefully on June 22, 2025, at the age of 84.
Roger was born in Sydney, N.S., on May 5, 1941. He was the beloved husband of 56 years to his loving and caring wife, Sandra, and a devoted father to Wenda Berkvens (Chris), Joe Garabb (Heather) and Michelle Garabb (Thomas). He was a proud grandfather to Tyler, Carter, Reegan and Liam; a cherished brother to Joann MacIsaac (Alex Hook), Cathy Garabb Read (Bruce) and Janice Waye (Joe), whom he loved dearly; and a loving and supportive uncle cherished by his nieces and nephews. Roger was predeceased by his parents, Joe and Marena Garabb.
Roger’s work life was diverse and his warm and genuine personality made him someone people trusted and enjoyed doing business with. Roger began his career as a barber in his father’s barbershop on Charlotte Street. He later opened The Sportsman’s Club in Sydney and The TradeWinds Tavern in North Sydney. He went on to serve as co-owner of Truro Raceway and co-owner and General Manager of Tartan Downs Raceway. He also held a sales position at Moosehead Breweries and Esso Home Comfort.
Roger had a passion for sports and it was the cornerstone of his life. A lifelong athlete, he enjoyed years of playing on the Ashby Legion baseball team, the Sydney Millionaires Oldtimers hockey team and lacing up his skates until the age of 83 with his County Arena hockey family. Through sport, Roger formed some of his closest and lasting friendships.
Roger’s love for horse racing was a constant throughout his life. For over 50 years, he made an annual trip to Prince Edward Island each summer, attending Old Home Week races with his son and close friends – a tradition that brought him great joy and lasting memories.
Roger’s legacy is one of warmth, humour, love and friendship for his family, his friends, his teammates and his community. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
The family would like to thank Dr. Stephen Hall, Dr. Wissam Saliba and Dr. Gala Lopez and Brett Gillis, RN, for their exceptional care, compassion and support. The family would like to extend a special thank you also to Chris and Derin from Home Instead Sydney for their kindness and attentive care that made a lasting impact with Roger.
Cremation has taken place under the care and direction of T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists. A funeral mass will be held at St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Parish in Sydney on Monday, June 30 at 11 a.m., with a reception to follow at the Cedars Club.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Sydney Minor Hockey Association. Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting tjtracey.com.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Roger Garabb.