Robert Marshall ROBBINS

ROBBINS, Robert Marshall (Bob) On Saturday, January 26, 2008 in Ottawa, Bob passed away peacefully in his 92nd year. He was the son of Harry and Pearl (Miller), and the beloved husband of the late Anne Didych. Bob and Anne spent 39 happy and exciting years in Montreal, Ottawa, and at their retreat "Pala" near Ripon, Quebec. He was at once a world traveller, sportsman, avid learner, business consultant and good friend to many. Born on February 27, 1916 in Harriston, Ontario Bob grew up in Toronto and spent many happy summers in Muskoka at "Lucky 13" on Shingwauk farm with his sisters Jean Bradshaw and Mary Correll. As a boy, he was fascinated by "ham radio", and obtained his private license in 1932. In 1940 Bob joined TCA (Air Canada) as a radio operator. He was Airport Operations Manager in North Bay, Goose Bay, Labrador and Montreal, later becoming involved in training and management development. Bob retired from Air Canada in 1972 and joined the Federal government, retiring from this second career in 1980. Then as a private consultant, he travelled with Anne to China, Australia and Fiji. Always active in mind and body, at the age of 84, Bob took a break from his sailing and windsurfing for a 3 week bus tour of Scandinavia with his beloved Pionairs. Most recently, Bob lived at Unitarian House. His family is grateful for the kindness and dignity with which he was treated every day. His many friends will remember the twinkle in his eye and his gentle humour. Bob leaves behind long-lost and happily-found brother Michael, and nieces Mary Oliarnyk of Ottawa, Carol Ray of Fredericton, nephew Rod Bird of Ajax, sisters-in-law Flo Fischer and Zonie Fischer of Schreiber. They and their families will dearly miss their "Uncle Bob". A memorial service and celebration of Bob's life will be held at First Unitarian Congregation, 30 Cleary Ave. on Friday, February 1st at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations to Unitarian House would be greatly appreciated. Published in the Ottawa Citizen on 1/30/2008