With heavy hearts, we mourn the loss of our beloved Steven (Sonny) Peter Robak, who passed away unexpectedly on May 11, 2022. Born February 25, 1970 in Edmonton, Alberta to Willma and Steve Robak, Sonny grew up in Yellowknife, NWT. Along with his sisters Gwen and Jen, he was raised by their mother and learned the value of sacrifice and loyalty to family. In his later years, Sonny fondly recounted stories of his childhood in the North, where he made lifelong friends, excelled at hockey, and stirred up some trouble along the way.
In 1991, Steve joined the Royal Canadian Navy and proudly served our country for 21 years as a Marine Engineer. He sailed the world, made his home in Victoria, B.C., and later settled in Ottawa, Ontario. Petty Officer First Class Robak retired from the RCN, and continued his career in a civilian capacity for the Department of National Defence.
Sonny’s true passion was a life centered around family, friends, and tradition. Happiest when spending time on family adventures, he exemplified the best in a father: loving, present, generous, dependable, involved. Larger than life, his warm laughter would often be the loudest in a room – everyone felt at ease in Sonny’s welcoming presence. Hockey, cycling, craft beer, garlic and barbecuing year-round all brought Sonny extreme joy. Coach Steve devoted many years to minor hockey in Kanata, and was an impeccable manager of multiple Fantasy Hockey teams.
Sonny leaves behind his deeply loved wife of 20 years, Angela, and their two sons Alexander (21) and Spencer (17), who made him proud every day. He also fiercely loved his mother, Willma; sisters Gwen Robak, Jennifer Babits (Christopher) and nephews Jozsef, Laszlo and Oscar. He was devoted to his extended Robak family in Edmonton, Alberta.
Gone far too soon, never to be forgotten. Fair winds and following seas….
Please come celebrate how lucky we were to have known him, on May 22, 2022 at Beechwood Cemetery, 280 Beechwood Ave., Vanier, ON K1L 8A6. Visitation 11:00 am-1:30 pm. Service at 1:30 pm. Reception to follow. For livestream attendance and condolences, please visit www.beechwoodottawa.ca.
Donations gratefully accepted by Jumpstart (jumpstart.canadiantire.ca) in lieu of flowers.
Digital Guestbook
Dana Salame
Angela and Billy
I have so enjoyed my time with Steven over the years, always willing to lend a hand, crack a joke, share a story, smile so big his entire face lite up. One of the most easy going men with such a love of family and friendships. You felt special in his company. I am so sorry I cannot be there in person but he will be our hearts. The air seems heavier, the lights not as bright. Sending love and hugs and kisses to all his family especially Angela, Spencer, Alex, Gwen, Jen and Auntie Wilma. xoxoxoxoxo
Derek Eichel and Danielle Letourneau
I was saddened to hear the news about Steve. We sailed and worked together on HMCS Calgary and on various occasions throughout our time in the navy. We played hockey together and had an beverage or two during our down time on a few occasions. We send our deepest condolences to you and your family.
Crystal & Glenn Saville
Dear cousin Rest In Peace. You left us too early.
Angela, Alex, Spencer. Auntie Willma, Gwen, Jennifer. Our deepest condolences go out to all of you!! May you always cherish the wonderful years you all had together. He will be forever missed. ❤️❤️❤️
Markus Ruppert
Dear Angela, Alex and Spencer,
your loss can not be described in any words and we feel so sorry for you all, that you have to go thru such hard times. Mybe it it is only a weak consolution, but the memories in all people who knew Steven will live on. We can only say our deepest condolences from all the Ruppert family from Germany.
Fred Roussel
So very sorry to hear about Steve’s passing. I have known Steve since the HMCS Yukon’s days, almost 30 years, and served with him on Calgary and Regina. So many great memories along the way. Everybody that knew Steve knows about his very unique laugh. It was loud, genuine and contagious. He was a great shipmate and a very talented engineer. He will be greatly missed. Condolences to Angela, the boys and family. Fair winds and following seas sailor. Fred
Tammy Eriksen
So sorry. Love you all
Randy Lewers
A great friend,an awesome sailor.Will miss you Steve
Doug Mintzer
Steve was an amazing friend. I will miss our long conversations about hockey and politics and all the good laughs we had.
I am heartbroken to be saying goodbye but I am happy to have had such a good friend.
I will miss you Steve.
Deb Anderson and family
All of you welcomed us with open arms. We hold you in our thoughts and hearts today and always.
Steve was my manager few years ago at DND, he was friendly, kind and professional. Always smiling and helping others. I am very shocked and saddened by his passing. May he rest in eternal peace. My thoughts and prayers go to his family. My deepest sympathies during this difficult time.