In his 86th year, Rob passed away peacefully on Friday December 13th 2019, surrounded by family. Teacher, educator, sportsman, poet, father, husband, hat collector, scotch connoisseur, and the life of many a party. Rob was known for many things, among them his love of family and friends, wit, warmth, and a humour that transcended. A gentle soul that touched many, a subtle character who was larger than life. He will be missed dearly by all those he touched, whether in Ottawa, on the Big Rideau or in Grand Bend. When you see your next perfect sunset, you will know that Rob had a hand in it.
Rob is survived by his wife Nancy, his children: Jane (Denis), Bruce (Thandie), Margo (Kevin), Jill (Mark), Marie (Ronan), Warren (Lena), and his grandkids: Lee, Glen, Becky, Kimmy, Anisha, Lee-Ann, Ben, Alexandra, and Annick. Predeceased by his brother Bruce (Frances).
Friends are invited to visit the Beechwood National Memorial centre, 280 Beechwood Ave. on Saturday December 21st, 2019, from 11am to 1pm, Memorial Service will be held in the Sacred Space at 1 p.m. reception following.
A celebration of Rob’s life will continue at Peter Devine’s Pub, 73 Clarence Street, Ottawa after 5 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Bruyère Foundation (www.bruyere.org) would be appreciated.
Digital Guestbook
Susan Dolan
Mark Kenny (GRAND BEND)
Sincere condolences to all Rob's family and friends. Rob, was the true "Spirit of Oakwood" in every sense of an award. Thank you for starting such a wonderful tradition honouring friends that make a difference in others lives. Thanks for all the "quizzes" over the years. We will miss you greatly. Mark, Jen, Lauren.
Scott Sandler
Marie... I am so sorry for your loss. All of our family is thinking of you and wishing you peace as you go through a difficult time. Our deepest condolences. Love Scott & Sash and Kids.
Paul Gladish
I shall always remember Rob as a humorous and fun relative from my Years at our summer Cottage. He stood out with his charm and famous "Donald Duck" talk. Condolences to his wife Nancy, children and grandchildren.
ron rollo
Nancy - I and many others have memories of Rob as a fellow teacher at Laurentian High. He was a wonderful teacher and friend and he left a lasting legacy wherever his path in the OBE took him. There are enough fond memories and stories to fill a volume of an encyclopedia. He will be missed. I wish you and family all the best at this time. Rob was and will remain legendary .
Tavis Church
Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the passing of the sort of man we all aspire to be. I know he will be missed dearly - but his spirit will certainly endure.
Ross Maxwell
Nancy and family. It was my pleasure to know Rob as a leader with the OBE and as a colleague, friend and curler. His humour brought out the best in others. One year, I remember receiving a humourous Robbie Burns poem from him. In later years I was fortunate to maintain a relationship through the OBE reunions and his presence , as a guest at FOBEEP meetings/breakfasts at the Royal Ottawa Golf Club. Rob was a fine man and a person who made the lives of others better. Deepest sympathy to you and family. Ross
Peter Morrice
Sorry to read of Rob's passing. We were good friends together at Glebe and sang in the Lyres Club.many good parties in Ottawa and skiing with Charlie at the Jeffries camp in the Gatineau. After Glebe we met up again at Queen's in the mid 50's. It is my fond hope that we will meet again . Rest Peacefully Rob.
Lorne Rachlis
A gentleman and a leader. Rob will live through his example to all who knew him.
Sarah and Aaron Good
We are thinking of you. I'll keep my eye out for a great sunset.
Sarah and Aaron Good (friends of Jill and Mark)
Always a great smile and, a true love of life !
My sympathy to you Nancy and your family.
Hope Biff was there at Heaven's door to welcome Robbie home.