June 20, 1930 - July 28, 2021
We are sad to announce that Art Robinson died peacefully in NRGH on 28th July 2021 after a short illness, and a longer battle with dementia. He fought his memory loss bravely, always trying to continue to help others.
Arthur was born to Gilbert and Kate Robinson on the family farm near the City of Duncan BC. He is pre-deceased by parents Kate & Gilbert, sister Priscilla (George), brother-in-law Bill, daughter Julie. He leaves behind loving wife Marjorie, daughters Donna & Helen, sister-in-law Dorothy in Calgary and nieces and nephews.
Art attended Sahtlam Elementary School until June 1943 to complete 8 grades in 7 years. Then on to Duncan High School. He was able to attend shop courses in woodworking, drafting, metal work along with the academic classes.
He also took a correspondence course in Forestry. After graduation he worked on many jobs including planting trees, working in sawmills, and helping out with the farm. His first car was a secondhand 1928 Chevrolet which had been turned into a truck from a four-door sedan.
It passed requirements for vehicle license after several improvements were made by Art. When he was 19, he flew to Edmonton, Alberta to attend the Chicago Vocational Training School including Gas & Diesel engine operations.
He joined the RCAF in 1951 as ground crew, training to be an Operator Mechanic of Mobile Equipment. During his time in the Forces, he drove to northern BC and Alberta as well as to Whitehorse on the "new" Alaska Highway and told many stories to his family & friends of his exciting trips.
While stationed in Calgary he met Marjorie his future wife. She worked in the record dept and when Art asked her out, she checked his records. Seeing nothing amiss they had their first date! His term was up in 1956 and they were married on Nov 3, 1956 and had 64+ years together.
They have shared many joys and sorrows together with no regrets but thankful for their many years of marriage. During this time, they welcomed daughters Julie, Helen and Donna to make up their family.
They moved to Vancouver where Art apprenticed to Finning Tractor and received his Heavy- Duty Mechanic papers after 5 years. Later they moved to Victoria, then on to Nanaimo where he worked for the City of Nanaimo for 25 years, seven of which he was the Shop Foreman. He also kept himself busy building rooms and making improvements on their home.
Art was generous to those less fortunate. He was always interested in anything that would make the world a better place for others, and wrote letters to editors, MPs & MLAs in support of his ideals.
He was deeply involved in the planning, building and running of the former Nanaimo Ecumenical Centre. It was a bold venture of the United and Catholic churches. This suited Art's deep faith and willingness to be involved in something he believed in.
His words on being part of the Saturday volunteers during construction give some idea of his feelings. "An extra joy is working with persons of another faith to develop our spirit of sharing and making many new friends".
This kind and thoughtful man always had a big smile for all and was ready to give a helping hand to others. He could fix anything; even if it was with duct tape! We have many happy memories of family trips together.
Art was a dedicated and loving husband to Marjorie and Dad to his three daughters. He will be missed more than we can say but we will always look in our hearts as there he is still with us.
Many Thanks to all on the fifth floor and the ALC Courtyard of the Nanaimo Hospital who looked after him. Especially those who were there for his last hours. They were always kind and helpful and for this we are grateful.
Cremation has taken place, service at a later date. No flowers please but a donation to the charity of your choice in his memory, if so wished.