remembering bob

1952 - 2023

There are some who bring a light so great to the world that even after they have gone, the light remains.

A Tribute to an extraordinary man

Welcome to this memorial website, a heartfelt tribute to the remarkable life of Bob Lim Joo Yam. It is with heavy hearts yet profound gratitude that we gather here to honor the memory of a truly extraordinary individual who touched the lives of many.

Bob was an epitome of love, devotion, and compassion. As a loving husband, he filled the lives of his family with joy and warmth, leaving behind cherished memories that will forever linger in their hearts. His unwavering dedication to his role as a father nurtured the dreams and aspirations of his children, guiding them on their life's journey with unwavering support and boundless love.

Beyond his roles within his family, Bob's influence extended far and wide. As a coach, he passionately shared his expertise and wisdom, molding the young minds of countless individuals and instilling in them not only the skills to excel but also the values of sportsmanship, perseverance, and teamwork. His impact as a mentor was immeasurable, as he offered guidance and encouragement to those seeking direction, empowering them to reach their fullest potential.

Bob was also a beacon of respect and admiration within his community. Through his kind words, thoughtful gestures, and selfless acts, he touched the lives of friends and acquaintances.

As we come together to celebrate Bob's life, let us also find solace in the memories we share, the laughter we enjoyed, and the lessons he taught us. Let this website stand as a digital monument to the legacy of a man who touched our lives in profound ways.

Rest in abundance of love, dear Bob. Your light will forever shine in our hearts.

early years

Bob Lim Joo Yam, the eldest of five children, exemplified responsibility and intellect from a young age. As a student, he stood out as a smart and diligent individual, even earning the prestigious role of school prefect. However, circumstances dictated that Bob had to support his father's business, which led to his sacrifice as the eldest to give up his studies. Nevertheless, his thirst for knowledge remained undiminished, and he continued to excel academically.

Despite the challenges he faced, Bob's determination shone through. He sought refuge and solace at Farrer Park swimming pool, where he embarked on a remarkable journey of self-teaching. With sheer willpower and dedication, Bob honed his swimming skills, realizing the importance of gaining this invaluable ability.

Bob's unwavering commitment to self-improvement and his ability to adapt in the face of adversity are testaments to his resilience and intelligence. Even when circumstances forced him to put aside formal education, he found alternative avenues to broaden his horizons and pursue his passions.

He participated in and won many swimming competitions since young and would go on to represent Singapore on a national scale as he continued to put Singapore on the map through his years pioneering Lifesaving in Singapore and conceptualizing Water Safety through SwimSafer.

love of his life

At the young age of 21, Bob's life took a beautiful turn when he met the love of his life. From that moment on, his heart belonged to her, and their love story became one of unwavering devotion that lasted a lifetime.

Their meeting was serendipitous, a chance encounter that would shape the course of their lives. As they got to know each other, their connection deepened, and it became clear that they were meant to be together. Bob knew he had found his soulmate, and he embraced their love with an open heart.

Bob and his beloved embarked on the journey of marriage, vowing to support and cherish each other through every joy and challenge that life brought their way. Their bond grew stronger with each passing year, a testament to their enduring love. Bob's love for his partner was unwavering, and he dedicated himself as a family man who took care of their three children and all household matters.

Together, they weathered the ups and downs, celebrating milestones and supporting each other during difficult times. Their love was a guiding light, providing strength and comfort throughout their lives.

Their partnership was a beautiful union of two souls who cared and supported each other unconditionally.

first born

Bob embraced the role of a father with boundless love and dedication, cherishing his firstborn son, Paul, with all his heart. From the moment Paul came into his life, Bob's love and protection knew no bounds. He saw in his son a reflection of his hopes and dreams, and he made it his mission to impart his wisdom, values, and morals to shape Paul into a remarkable human being.

As a father, Bob became Paul's greatest teacher, sharing with him everything he knew. He instilled in his son a strong foundation of knowledge, but more importantly, he emphasized the importance of being a good person. Bob believed in the power of integrity, kindness, and compassion, and he tirelessly worked to instill these values in Paul's character.

The bond between Bob Lim Joo Yam and his son Paul remained unbreakable throughout their lives. Beyond their roles as father and son, they became lifelong companions, embarking on overseas trips together to experience life and create unforgettable memories. These journeys allowed them to forge a unique connection, separate from the responsibilities of work and family. These memories will remain a treasured aspect of Paul's life, evidence as a source of joy, support, and endless love.

only daughter

The joy that filled Bob's heart upon receiving the news of expecting a daughter was immeasurable. From the moment she came into his life, she became his precious angel, and their bond grew stronger with each passing day. Bob adored his daughter with a love that knew no bounds, and she became the cherished "daddy's girl" in his life.

From the very beginning, Bob embraced his role as a protector, ensuring his daughter felt safe and loved unconditionally. He created an environment filled with warmth and tenderness, where she could grow and flourish.

Bob's pride in his daughter was immeasurable. He celebrated her achievements, big or small, and recognized the unique qualities that made her special. He believed in her abilities and talents, providing unwavering support as she pursued her dreams. Bob took immense pride in watching her blossom into the remarkable individual she became.

Bob's love for his daughter was evident in every interaction and every word of encouragement. He nurtured her spirit, instilling in her a strong sense of self-worth and teaching her to embrace her uniqueness. He wanted nothing more than for her to find happiness and fulfillment in life. Their bond remains an everlasting connection, and his legacy of love and support continues to guide and inspire her every day.

youngest son

The joy that filled Bob's heart when he welcomed his youngest son into the world was immeasurable. With his arrival, their family felt complete, and a special bond formed between father and son. Bob's love and pride overflowed as he watched his son grow, nurturing a deep connection that would last a lifetime.

Bob was particularly proud of his youngest son's athletic abilities, especially his passion for marathon running. He admired his son's determination, discipline, and commitment to pushing his limits. He often talked about wanting to train for a marathon himself!

As a father, Bob did everything in his power to support his youngest son's endeavors. He chose to be present, always nearby, providing solace and a constant source of encouragement. Whether it was work or life, Bob made sure his son felt his unwavering support. He was there for his youngest son through life's ups and downs, offering guidance, understanding, and unwavering love. Bob's commitment to being a pillar of strength in his son's life showcased his deep devotion as a father.

Bob's unwavering support and pride in his youngest son left an indelible mark on their relationship. His commitment to being a loving and supportive father played a crucial role in his son's life, shaping him into the remarkable individual he became.

grandfather

When Bob finally became a grandfather, his heart swelled with pure happiness and an overwhelming sense of joy. Welcoming his grandson into the world brought a new chapter of love and fulfillment to his life. Bob embraced his role as a doting grandfather with open arms, cherishing every moment spent with his precious grandson.

Being a grandfather brought Bob immense joy and purpose. He delighted in showering his grandson with love, care, and affection. From the very beginning, their bond was strong, and they developed a unique connection filled with warmth and tenderness.

Bob took great delight in being a part of his grandson's life and eagerly embraced his role as a mentor and protector. He cherished the opportunity to guide his grandson, sharing his wisdom and experiences to help shape the little one's journey.

One special memory that filled Bob's heart with pride was taking his grandson for his very first swim. With great care and attention, Bob introduced the joy and wonder of the water, ensuring his grandson felt safe and loved throughout the experience. It was a cherished moment that symbolized Bob's commitment to imparting new experiences and creating lasting memories.

Bob's legacy as a doting grandfather serves as a reminder of the profound impact a grandparent's love can have on a child's life.

Life's work

Bob's journey in the field of lifesaving took an extraordinary turn when he was chosen as the inaugural representative from Singapore by the People's Association's National Youth Service to participate in a fully sponsored fellowship program under the Commonwealth Youth Programme in Canada.

Driven by his insatiable thirst for knowledge, Bob ventured to the United Kingdom, where he dedicated himself to mastering the art of teaching swimming to individuals with disabilities. Bob's unwavering commitment to empowering differently abled individuals in swimming competitions was truly extraordinary. He not only acknowledged their remarkable abilities but also fought tirelessly to ensure they were provided with the necessary platforms and support to showcase their skills. Through his tireless advocacy for inclusivity, Bob played a pivotal role in fostering a more compassionate and inclusive society, where individuals of all abilities could actively participate and excel in their chosen sports.

Recognizing Bob's remarkable contributions, the Royal Life Saving Society Commonwealth Council honored him with the esteemed title of Honorary Commonwealth Life Member.

Today, Bob stands as a highly respected figure within the Lifesaving Community. As the President of the Singapore Life Saving Society, Bob not only traveled to distant lands like Canada, Scotland, Germany, and Australia to deliver compelling presentations and speeches, but also led the organization with remarkable dedication. His role as Chief Examiner and author of numerous enduring manuals continues to influence and shape the field to this day.

community service

Bob's extraordinary commitment to community service at the grassroots level has left a lasting impact on countless lives. Throughout his journey, he dedicated himself wholeheartedly to uplifting the underprivileged and fostering inclusivity through sports.

As the Vice Chairman of the Community Sports Club, now known as the Community Sports Network, Bob played a pivotal role in organizing swim meets, competitions, and various sporting events. These initiatives were specifically designed to provide opportunities for underprivileged individuals, enabling them to partake in sports and experience the transformative power of physical activity.

Bob's unwavering dedication to creating equal sporting opportunities and fostering a sense of belonging earned him numerous accolades and awards. His long service and remarkable contributions were celebrated, recognizing the profound impact he made on the community.

Beyond the realm of sports, Bob's passion for community service extended to other facets of his life. He selflessly devoted himself to grassroots initiatives, and was always quietly helping residents in his neigbourhood, especially the elderly. His efforts were widely recognized and appreciated, solidifying his position as a revered figure within the community.

Bob's name became synonymous with excellence and selflessness, serving as an inspiration for others to follow in his footsteps. His selflessness continues to resonate within the hearts of many.

coach and mentor

Bob's impact as a coach and mentor was immeasurable, as evidenced by the numerous students who came to pay their respects during his wake. Their heartfelt tributes revealed that they would not be where they are today without his guidance and support. Bob's unique teaching style, filled with humor and riddles, created a fun and engaging learning environment for his young students, making their swimming lessons not only educational but also enjoyable.

Not only did Bob teach the younger generation, but he also taught their parents how to swim. Recognizing their fear of the water, Bob used the power of storytelling to distract them and alleviate their anxieties. Through his compassionate approach, he helped his adult students overcome their fears, enabling them to embrace the joy of swimming.

Bob's ability to connect with his students on a personal level went beyond the confines of the pool. He shared his life experiences, providing valuable insights and imparting wisdom to help them navigate challenges both in and out of the water. His selflessness and willingness to support his students in all aspects of their lives created a deep and lasting impact, fostering a sense of gratitude and admiration among those he mentored.

The outpouring of love and respect from Bob's students stands as a testament to his extraordinary coaching and mentoring abilities. His ability to create a positive and supportive environment, his selfless nature, and his dedication to the growth and well-being of his students will forever be cherished.

friend

Bob Lim Joo Yam's remarkable qualities as a friend are fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His selflessness, genuine care, and infectious sense of humor made him a beloved friend to people from all walks of life and races. Bob had a remarkable ability to treat his friends as if they were family, creating deep and lasting bonds.

Bob's selflessness knew no bounds. He consistently put the needs and well-being of his friends before his own, always ready to offer a helping hand or a listening ear. His compassionate nature made him a reliable source of support during both joyous and challenging times. Bob's friends could always count on him for his unwavering presence and unwavering love.

One of the most endearing qualities about Bob was his ability to infuse laughter into any situation. His sense of humor was contagious, brightening the lives of those around him. Through his funny anecdotes and light-hearted banter, Bob created an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie. He had a unique ability to bring people together and forge deep connections through shared laughter.

Bob's caring nature extended far beyond the surface level of friendship. He truly cared for those around him, going the extra mile to ensure their well-being. Whether it was offering a helping hand during challenging times or providing a comforting presence during moments of distress, Bob's friendship was steadfast and unwavering.

media: many firsts

When Bob was 27 years old, his dedicated service to society paid off as he was selected to participate in a study fellowship in Canada under the Commonwealth Youth Programme, the first People's Association's National Youth Service award winners to go on such a programme.

The fun fact was: this was the very first time that Bob traveled overseas, and he was also the first in his family to ever do so.

It was an exciting time for young Bob and little did he know that this adventure would also present him with an unexpected lesson. He encountered a setback when he missed his flight due to being unaware of the requirement for early check-in. Despite this hurdle, Bob persisted and made the necessary arrangements to rebook his flight.

However, instead of viewing this experience solely as a personal challenge, Bob chose to transform it into a valuable lesson to be shared with his family and friends. Recognizing that many of them had never had the opportunity to travel, he imparted his newfound knowledge, emphasizing the importance of being aware of travel logistics and ensuring a smooth journey.

Read Bob's report on his attachment to the Canadian Royal Life Saving Society Programme

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media: COMMONWEALTH CO-OPERATION

Bob was featured in the Royal Life Saving Society's Commonwealth Contact for being a driving force for introducing new programmes which will have a profound influence on the water safety in Singapore.

Read Bob's report on his RLSS UK Summer School experience at the Altantic College in the United Kingdom

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writings

We will be publishing some of Bob's work in time to come.

In the meantime, allow us to share a excerpt of what Bob wrote for his 2018 new year's resolution, further demonstrating the mark of his character.

testimonials

Welcome to the testimonial section of our memorial website. In this space, we celebrate and honor the beautiful memories and stories shared by friends, family, and loved ones who have been touched by the life of Bob. We invite you to read these heartfelt testimonials and join us in cherishing the lasting impact Bob had on the lives they touched.

Take a moment to explore the collection of testimonials, anecdotes, and memories shared by those who knew and loved Bob. These heartfelt accounts serve as a testament to the incredible person they were and the profound influence they had on others. By reading these testimonials, you can gain insight into the warmth, kindness, and love that defined Bob's life.

We welcome you to contribute your own testimonial, sharing your personal experiences, memories, and stories of Bob. By sharing your thoughts and reflections, you can help preserve Bob's legacy and provide comfort to others who visit this memorial website.

updates

On 30th July 2023, the Bukit Batok Community Sports Network held a Swim Meet at the Bukit Batok Swimming Complex. This event was a part of the various sports initiatives that were initiated and organized by Bob during his time with us.

During the event, a special segment was dedicated to honoring the Loving Memory of Bob. Mr. Murali Pillai, MP, presented a plaque to Bob's wife, Mrs. Lim, as a tribute to Bob's exceptional service and his lasting impact on the community. In order to ensure that Bob's legacy endures, the committee will establish a Founder's Day to celebrate and remember his valuable contributions.

We will keep everyone informed about the upcoming Founder's Day event and how we plan to commemorate Bob's remarkable achievements.

support

Welcome to the support section of Bob's Memorial Website. In memory of Bob, his daughter, Mabel, has created a special resource to support individuals currently in intensive care units (ICUs) or experiencing respiratory issues.

Introducing "The Calm Practice", where personalized guided voice meditation are specifically designed for patients facing these challenges.

Please note that The Calm Practice is an independent platform, and any inquiries or requests for support should be directed to their website or customer service channels. We encourage you to visit their website to learn more about their offerings and access the personalized guided voice meditations.

May this invaluable resource, created in loving memory of Bob, bring solace and support to those who need it most.

Click to visit The Calm Practice