One of the top bowlers the province has ever produced passed away Tuesday following a lengthy illness. Bob Osborne was 60.
Widely known throughout bowling alleys across the province as “Bobby O,” Osborne participated in an incredible 61 national championships, winning gold, silver and bronze medals, and numerous Canadian all-star awards.
There were also several provincial bowling championships to his credit.
One of the highlights of his career was winning the 2013 Canadian Open gold medal at his own bowling alley, Holiday Lanes in St. John’s. He was the first proprietor in Canada to accomplish that feat.
In addition to owning Holiday Lanes, Osborne also owned Plaza Bowl, Paradise Bowl and Holiday Lanes Central in Grand Falls-Windsor.
Osborne was voted one of the top 100 bowlers of all-time in Canada, in a top 100 for 100 years national poll.
In addition to his success as a bowler, Osborne also served on the executive of the Newfoundland and Labrador Five-Pin Bowlers Association executive, and was a successful coach.
In 1997, he guided the Newfoundland and Labrador men’s team to a gold medal at the Canadian Open five-pin championship.
Visitation will be at Carnell’s Funeral Home on Freshwater Road from noon to 8 p.m. Friday. Funeral Mass will be by invitation only (because of COVID-19) 9:30 a.m. Saturday at Mary Queen of Peace Church on Torbay Road.