On December 5, 2019 William Robinson (Robin) FitzSimons was called from Victoria, BC to begin his forever job for the Master Gardener. Robin began life in St. John, New Brunswick as the youngest son of the Rev. William FitzSimons and Maud Ramsay of N. Ireland. He is predeceased by his brother James Reginald and his parents. He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years Mildred Ida Davidson, his cherished daughter Cheryl (Joseph Grenzebach), many nieces and nephews and their families, and a wide circle of friends.
Robin and Millie lived for 51 years in Burlington, Ontario before recently moving to Victoria, the Garden City, to be closer to Cheryl. Robin was an accountant for 37 years at International Harvester and when not working, he enjoyed fishing, bird carving, and travelling. He was an active church member and worked for many years with various youth ministry programs. He enjoyed spending time with friends and family over a good meal, and rarely declined a second piece of dessert. In 2013, he received a commendation from the Florence, AZ fire department for his bravery in rescuing a neighbour from her burning home in Casa de Sol. Most of all, he was known for his love of gardening, and in particular, roses. He was an active member of the Royal Botanical Gardens and Hamilton Burlington Rose Society where he routinely won awards with his championship roses. Robin was a loving husband, wonderful father and friend to many.
A private man, Robin requested a family-only committal service, which was held on December 10, 2019 at McCall Gardens.
Robin would be best honoured by donations to either Partners International Canada (www.partnersinternational.ca) a mission he has supported for many years, or the Royal Botanical Gardens (www.rbg.ca) so that others can continue to enjoy his beloved roses.
Proverbs 3:6
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. (King James)
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Cheryl harper
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Peter Millie and Cheryl,
Very sorry to hear of Robin’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love,
Pete, Stacy, Grace and Hope van der Zouwe.
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Marge MacKenzie Milly, so very sad to hear of your loss and Robin’s journey home. Was an honor for me to have called him a friend. Love and thoughts for you and the family.
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Penny and Chris Philpotts Dear Millie,
We would like to offer our heartfelt condolences. Our prayers are with both you and Cheryl.
May you find peace and comfort in the memories you shared with Robin.
God bless,
Penny and Chris
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Linda Davidson So very sad to hear of Robins passing.Over the years he never changed.Befriended me when others did not.Rest knowing you have served your master well.
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John Shull Our most sincere condolence to Robin’s family. In the few short years that we knew him, we took great
pleasure in his company.John and Bonnie
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Leanne Cheryl, my deepest sympathy for your loss. My warmest thoughts are with you and your family at this challenging time. The stories you have shared and now with this beautiful writeup shows just how special his was, take care.
Leanne
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Sandy Quaile Millie. Each time we met you when at Liz’s, we remember Robin…. such a quiet, pleasant and loving man. We offer our deep and sincere sympathy. Sandy & Ken
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Virginia Hochstatter Millie. — I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your husband and such a special friend to all of us.
Am sure God met him with open arms and a big smile as he welcomed him to his heavenly home.
Our Prayers and love are sent to you and Cheryl and family.
I will be giving a donation to the CASA program (Abused children) in memory of Robin.
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Pat Beckett Millie: I’m so happy to have known Robin. He was a dear, kind man. My heartfelt condolences to you and Cheryl. Love and prayers to you both.
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Rick Salway Cheryl, my thoughts are with you and your family,
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Rossana Cleriti Dear Cheryl,
my deep condolences for your loss.
Rossana
Dear Cheryl
I am so sorry to hear of your father’s passing. And while he is now walking in the everlasting gardens my thoughts are with you and your family as you now feel his loss here on earth.
My condolences
Cheryl