Author of Spitfire The Canadians has passed away
 

Just learned that Robert Bracken has passed away.

BRACKEN, Robert Victor, - Passed away suddenly at his residence in Niagara Falls on September 29, 2008 at the age of 58 years. Beloved son of William and the late Irene Bracken of Niagara Falls, brother of Loretta (Mel) Pederson of Niagara Falls, uncle of Eric (Kristi) Pederson, Niagara-on-the-Lake and Melanie (Kevin) Lumley of Niagara Falls. Great-uncle to Kallie, Colin, Ethan and Tyler and cousin to Michael Bracken, Elmira. He is also survived by relatives in England including Cousin Thomas Barton. Robert attended Stamford High School and Brock University. He worked for Ken James Studio. For many years, Robert enjoyed his hobby of model airplanes. After extensive research, Robert wrote two books about Canadian Spitfire Pilots. He had hoped to finish a third book. Our family wishes to thank the many friends who were so helpful to Robert especially Clifford and Dorathee, and also the friendly and caring neighbours at Kiwanis Cr. Our thanks also to the volunteers from Meals on Wheels and the ladies from Para-Med, especially Patty.
Friends may call at the MORSE & SON CHAPEL of the MORGAN FUNERAL HOME on Thursday evening from 7-9 p.m. A service to celebrate Robert's life will take place at the funeral home on Friday at 10. Cremation will follow. Private interment at Victoria Lawn Cemetery, St. Catharines. Donations in memory of Robert may be made to World Vision.

Stephen

Re: Author of Spitfire The Canadians has passed away
 

I met Robert several times in the past, in the 1990s. I even visited him in the photo studio he was working in, located in Niagara Falls.

He gratiously offered signed copies of both of his book for the meagre help I could lend him.

I am very sorry to hear that he is no longer with us.
RIP, Robert.

Re: Author of Spitfire The Canadians has passed away
 

What is going on? Dr Jan Koniarek passed away just after his 60 birthday as well. What a terrible time.

Re: Author of Spitfire The Canadians has passed away
 

Franek,

What's going on? Good question. I'd hazard a guess that life is "going" on, plain and simple.

Life is indeed too short...

Re: Author of Spitfire The Canadians has passed away
 

Stephen
Three great guys passing away at around their 60s at one time is not usual. The show must go on, but it is sad nonetheless. Please pas my heartiest condolences if you are in touch with the family.

Re: Author of Spitfire The Canadians has passed away
 

Mr. Koniarek has gone, too? This is indeed a (yet another) sad news.

Coincidentally, I was in contact with Mr. Koniarek in the 1990s, and planned to write together a book on Polish fighters for Squadron/Signal, for their - now defunct - "Mini in Action" series. We've put together the manuscript, but at the end, the US publisher pulled the plug from this whole series. And they decided that the topic is not worth (financially) a full "In Action" title...

RIP, Mr. Koniarek.