Robert was the newsletter designer and editor for the Friends of Nose Hill society. When asked how long he had been doing so he answered that he did not remember. That meant he gave unstintingly of his precious time and seemingly endless patience to the cause of preserving the natural environment park. He spoke often of the grandchildren and more so of his loving wife whom he treasured. They were an interesting pair and I often wished I knew more about them. Of course, Robert was an academic at the University of Calgary where my husband is now emeritus. Robert’s career was meaningful and long-lasting even into retirement. He had planned a trip back to the home country when it was postponed due to volcanic activity and ash. Another trip was aborted when his companion found a summer job writing environmental assessments. So he was here more than he was there which was our gain because he made an indelible impression on his colleagues, students, friends, family, and even casual acquaintances.
A gentleman whose wisdom and grace was a gift he shared with us in his all too brief presence among us. When His son David contacted us during the covid lockdown about Robert’s ninetieth birthday we made a video to wish him a happy day and more. Perhaps by divine generosity, there were many. Our deepest condolences to his family and our gratitude to them for sharing him.
Anne Burke, President, Friends of Nose Hill
