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13 Facts About Robert Bend

1.

The younger Robert Bend received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Manitoba, taught school and later worked as a school principal.

2.

Robert Bend later received a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Manitoba.

3.

In 1949, Robert Bend was elected to the Manitoba legislature for the riding of Rockwood.

4.

The Progressive Conservatives left the governing coalition in 1950, but Robert Bend continued to support the government of Liberal-Progressive Premier Douglas Campbell.

5.

Robert Bend scored an easy re-election in 1953, this time running as an "Independent Liberal-Progressive".

6.

Robert Bend remained out of active political life for the next decade.

7.

The selection of Robert Bend proved to be a strategic error for the party.

8.

Robert Bend represented the rural populist wing of the Liberal Party, and was unable to reach an urban audience.

9.

Robert Bend himself was narrowly defeated by Progressive Conservative candidate Harry Enns in the riding of Lakeside.

10.

Robert Bend stepped down as Liberal leader shortly thereafter, and did not seek provincial office again.

11.

Robert Bend subsequently returned to the education field, serving as superintendent of a rural school division.

12.

Robert Bend died at Rosewood Lodge in Stonewall on 24 September 1999 at the age of 85.

13.

Robert Bend spent 50 years as a baseball umpire and was inducted into the Manitoba Baseball Hall of Fame in 1997.