Obituary of Colin Dobbin

It is with great sadness, we announce the passing of Colin Robertson Dobbin, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend. He leaves behind his loving wife of fifty-eight years, Kathleen; children, Chris (wife Deborah), Rosemary (husband John) and Jennifer (husband Darcey); three grandchildren, Jason, Crystal Lynn, and Raymond; and great-grand-children, Matthew and Ethan. Colin was pre-deceased by parents Reverend John and Josephine Dobbin (Barclay); sisters Christina and Marianne, and brother Ian. Colin is also survived by a large extended family spread across Canada and the world. Born July 24, 1923 and raised in Qualicum Beach, BC. Colin joined the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) in 1942 and served as a pilot during WWII. After the war he attended the University of British Columbia for two years, taking Forestry Engineering until he was recalled to the RCAF where he served for 25 years. Following his RCAF service, he continued as a pilot for Pacific Western Airlines / Canadian Airlines, flying commercial cargo for an additional 15 years. In total, “Dobbie” (as he was affectionately known) was a pilot for 40 years, accumulating over 20,000 hours. Colin married the love of his life Kathleen on June 26, 1946, and this year they were blessed to celebrated 58 years together. Through the years they raised three children, Christopher, Rosemary and later, Jennifer; they also enjoyed the company of three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Colin was a member of the RCAF, Royal Canadian Legion, Retired Pilots Association, the Masonic Lodge, and the Dixon Club. One of Colin’s most challenging achievements, for which he received a Commendation, was the landing of a four engine Hercules airplane with only one operational engine – saving the lives of his flight crew and student passengers. His employment as a pilot allowed him to travel extensively throughout his life and many of the family’s memories include destinations abroad. Colin and Kathleen’s favorite vacations included their 10 week trip to New Zealand over Christmas 1982, and a 3 week canal tour through France in October 2001. Colin will be remembered most for his kind and tender heart – he taught us a great deal about patience, gentleness and love. He reminded us all that the greatest measure of one’s life is the impact one leaves on others. His affect on others is reflected in the voices of so many friends and family who have said that “he was the kindest man they have ever known”. He embodied fruits of the Spirit found in Galatians 5:22, 23 – “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control”. Many of us will continue to aspire to live out these qualities we saw in him in our own lives. There will be a “Celebration of Life” service on December 18th, at 2:00 pm at Central United Church (131 – 7th Avenue SW – Across from The Bay, downtown). Parking can be found in the Bay Parkade. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the Benevolent Fund c/o Central United Church (please phone 269-3701 to make arrangements). In living memory of Colin Dobbin, a tree will be planted at Nose Creek Valley by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 CENTRE STREET NORTH, CALGARY Telephone: (403) 276-2296.