R. John Robinson
R. John Robinson was born in Lancashire, England to parents Margaret and Ronald and raised with sisters Jean (Mike) and Barbara (Paul). He graduated from Arnold School in Blackpool Lancs, College as a mechanical engineer specializing in transportation planning. John emigrated to Canada in 1966 after being recruited by Westinghouse, where he began his career. John also later obtained a Business degree from McMaster University followed by Computer Science & Investment programs from University of Toronto. He later became an affiliate with IBI a Consulting Engineering & Architectural firm in Toronto.
His marriage to Dr. Theresa Clinton produced four fantastic children: Stephanie (Tim), Michael, Emily (Drew) and Claire (Troy). Grandchildren his pride and joy followed: Cati, Zoe, Cade, Connor, Annie-Jane, Ariel and Harvey yet to show.
Moving to his farm on the 4th Concession in Fisherville saw John joining the Fisherville Lions Club where he served most of the executive positions and was heavily involved in negotiations for the Lions Hall. John deftly handled many functions within the club and was rewarded with the Judge Brian Stveneson Fellowship, the Helen Keller Fellowship and the Melvin Jones Fellowship.
At the first public function in the new hall was where he met his current wife Mitzie Vezeau. Together they designed and renovated their beautiful lakefront home on Lake Erie where they hosted many social events. Family and friends were always welcome. Events like, “The British Invasion”, “The Prohibition Revisited”, “Miss Iron Bridge Rusted”, saw family and friends from near and far enjoying his favourite British and country music, his cellar of fine wine and his store of single malts!
During this time at the Lake, John continued his career as a consulting engineer acting as lead consultant on several contracts in many corners of the world allowing John & Mitzie to enjoy another of their favourite pastimes - travel where, like wherever they were - a host of friends remain. In retirement, they wintered in Texas - again making many dear friends!
Always loving the finer things in life - his wives, his children, grandchildren, his music, his friends - he leaves the world a better place. Pulmonary fibrosis was his nemesis but living life to the fullest was his signature.
What everyone who knew and loved John will remember most, was a classy mountain of a man with a larger than life personality who loved his family, his home, music, food and great parties surrounded by friends. John was the party. Cheers!
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will follow COVID. Expressions if so desired can be made to the Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, CPFF. Arrangements by Hyde & Mott Chapel, Hagersville.