Robert died at 88, at the Royal Jubilee Hospital, on May 26 2023. He was peaceful and comfortable at the end, surrounded by his loving wife Maureen and two daughters, Konia (Dawn and son Jordi) and Lycia. He was born in Bangor, Northern Ireland, and immigrated to Vancouver, Canada in 1970 with his young family. As an architect, he held a long position at Public Works Canada, but also designed and completed many home renovations. He and Maureen were life-long swimmers, and married in 1963. In his retirement, he pursued his love of the arts, the outdoors and exercise. He sang in various choirs and produced daily sketches of life around him. He and Maureen travelled the world extensively and settled in Sooke in 2011, joining the walking group and re-discovering his love of cycling. He is predeceased by his parents, Wakefield and Dora Jane. He is survived in the UK by his brother Thomas (Zillah) and their 3 children; Tom Jr (Dorothy and children), David (Sally and daughters) and Samantha (Andy) among other dear relatives. A joyful and easy disposition, he connected well with others from all walks of life and will be sorely missed, particularly at their home at Minton House, Cook Street Village, Victoria. His life’s richly intellectual, cultural and artistic musings were developed into a book entitled A View from Here which was submitted to the publisher on the day of his death. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the charity of your choice.
A Celebration of Life was held on Wednesday, July 19, 2023, at 2:00 pm, in the Sequoia Centre, McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC.
Condolences to the family may be offered below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
59 Responses
We spoke last weekend with Tom T, senior and we contacted your father’s cousin, Margaret Murphy.
Your father was a lovely man. We always enjoyed meeting him when he was in Ireland and, of course, Robert spent some holidays in Bangor with Bobby and Tom at your grandparents home when he was a boy. We will miss his phone calls. It will take you some time I am sure to adjust to his loss but I am sure you have many happy memories to recall.
Take care. I hope your mother is coping ok.
Love
Rosemary
Mr. and Mrs. Robert and Rosemary Harbinson,
Rathfriland, N. Ireland, UK
So very sorry to hear of his passing. As one of Lycia’s classmates right from Grade 1, well do I remember the fabulous geodesic dome he built in the back yard of the house!
Thinking of you all, and sending big hugs from Bangkok,
Betsy
A lovely man with an avid interest in everything in the world. On the several occasions I met him he was enthusiastic and curious about what was happening near him. I am sure he will be missed, not only by Maureen and Lycia, but by everyone who had met him. Greetings from Sydney, Australia.
We heard Bob was riding his bike up until a few days before his open heart surgery. The man was dynamic. He will be missed. We first met him when we all lived on Lyall St. Condolences to Maureen, Lycia and Konia.
One of the hardest things to deal with in life is the loss of a parent. You have so many memories; keep them close, remember them often, and share them with others.
Sending deepest sympathy on behalf of the Troutons of Annakeera, Portadown, N.Ireland. We have many fond memories of visits from your father and also the unique cards and letters received from him over the years. Thinking of you all at this difficult time. Xx
I am incredibly sorry for your loss of your beloved father and husband. Losing such a vital member can be a devastating experience, and my heart goes out to you and your family during this difficult time.
Your father was a remarkable man who lived a life full of purpose and meaning. He was not only a shining star in your family, but also in his community. His positive impact on the people around him will never be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to inspire and guide many in the years to come.
I want you to know that you are not alone in your grief. Please allow yourself time to mourn and remember the fond memories you had with your father and husband. Lean on your family and friends for support, and know that we are all here for you.
In this sorrowful time, may you find comfort in knowing that your father is at peace and his memories will forever live on.
Sincerely, Christeen Kiproff
Hello Lycia and Maureen,
I saw your note on FB. I sent our condolence among the numerous people who offered the same.
We keep very good memories of your father [Portneuf 150th, 2012]. He was so kind a person.
So deeply sorry for you and Maureen.
Take care and we think of you.
I’m so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. My condolences, ma chere. And to your Mom too!
So sorry to hear about the passing of your Dad. We all have such fond memories of him and know how much he will be missed. He was such a kind, caring man, not to mention his incredible talent, sketches and great sense of humour. Thinking of you, Maureen and the wider family at this very sad time.