Raised in Brandon, Bob graduated from Brandon University, earning a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) with Greatest Distinction. He was awarded numerous scholarships such as the General Proficiency Scholarship (highest academic standing in second year of the Bachelor of Arts program) and the J.G. Diefenbaker Estate Scholarship and Brandon University Silver Medal (Political Science). Bob attended the Faculty of Law at the University of Manitoba (participating in the Solomon Greenberg Moot Court competition in third year). He graduated with his Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) in 1992 and was called to the Bar and admitted as a Solicitor of the Court of Queen’s Bench for the Province of Manitoba in 1993.

Bob articled with, was an Associate for, and is now a Partner with Patersons. He has a varied practice (which initially was more litigation based but is becoming increasingly focused on solicitors work) and includes:

• Municipal and Planning Law
• Real Estate conveyancing
• Corporate and Commercial transactions
• Wills and Estates
• Administrative Hearings (Boards and Tribunals)
• Civil Litigation
• Family Law
• Criminal Defence

Bob has been involved with the legal profession locally, previously serving as President of Western Manitoba Bar Association. He has lectured at Brandon University and Assiniboine Community College, and has made presentations to high school students, community groups, and professional organizations for public legal education purposes. Bob is a member of the business group Westman’s First Choice. He has provided pro bono legal services to community organizations, and has volunteered his time with local charities, including the Westman Chapter of the MS Society where he was Board Chair. Bob enjoys participating in a number of sports. He has been involved for years with and continues to play hockey (stopping more pucks than he pulls out of the net behind him is now the goal) and has in the past coached youth hockey.

Bob values his time with his wife Michelle, and family.