“When I come to the end of the road and the sun has set for me,
I want no tears in a gloom-filled room,
why cry for a soul set free?
Miss me a little-but not for long,
and not with your head bowed low.
Remember the love we once shared,
Miss me-but let me go.”
Although written in the third person, Don participated in writing his obituary.
It is with great sadness and heartbreak the family of Donald (Don) Albert Robb announces he passed away on July 30, 2021 at Hospice Wellington, Guelph Ontario.
Don would be the first to tell you he lived an amazing life. He was married to the love of his life and his best friend Joan (McVean). He adored his children Megan (Kirk Brandt) and Jamie (Karen) and was immensely proud of them and their successful careers in education.
He loved his grandchildren, Kai and Zoë Brandt and Max, Liam and Cole Robb. He took great pleasure in seeing them embark on their educational and life journeys.
Don's brother Barry (Sue 2016) was his lifelong friend and they supported each other through life's ups and downs. He leaves behind his extended family Alex and Susan McVean and his many nieces and nephews.
Don loved his career in education as a Teacher, Department Head, Principal and Superintendent with the Scarborough Board of Education. He enjoyed working with young people and was passionate about coaching football, something he did throughout his entire career. It was gratifying to run into former students later in his life and hear their memories and thanks for lessons taught both in the classroom and on the athletic field.
As a superintendent he enjoyed working with and motivating teachers through his professional development sessions. His sense of humour and his many overheads will be remembered by Scarborough Educators.
Don's years at Queen's University were memorable. He was captain of the Golden Gaels Football Team and winner of the Jenkins Trophy for academic and athletic excellence. He was proudly inducted into the Queen's Football Hall of Fame in 1994.
In retirement, he embraced life as a golfer, spending countless hours at the Cutten Club in Guelph. He loved to "help" his fellow golfers, his friend Bob in particular, while treading on their putting lines and encouraging them to move more quickly. He enjoyed his committee work at the club with the Senior and Junior programs and the Playing Committee.
Don travelled the world in retirement, often with his golf clubs accompanied by his favourite golfing partner Joan.
Don treasured his friends and family and loved telling and retelling his stories and playing his practical jokes. Those who knew him well will miss the fun and laughter.
Our family wishes to thank Dr. C. Shafir, Dr. H. Reid Rafla and LHIN for their wonderful care. A special thank you to Hospice Wellington for the comfort they provided during Don’s final days.
There will be a public celebration of life at Cutten Fields, Guelph once we are able to safely gather. Currently, we will be following social distancing protocols due to Covid-19 and as a result the initial ceremony will be a private one, by invitation only and masks are required. We ask that you do not attend if feeling unwell or have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid-19. Arrangements entrusted to GILCHRIST CHAPEL- McIntyre & Wilkie Funeral Home, One Delhi Street, Guelph (519-824-0031). If desired, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice Wellington, in Guelph 519-836-3921 or the Canadian Cancer Society (Prostate Cancer) 1-800-268-8874. We invite you to leave your memories and donations online at: www.gilchristchapel.com and they will be forwarded to the family.