Robert left us far too soon, passing away May 27, 2024, after a brief illness. A familiar face in the Salt Spring community, Robert drew people to him with the gentle warmth of his smile, which embodied his innate generosity of spirit as well as the curiosity, humour and intelligence of a vibrant mind. Ever a quiet adventurer, lover of birds and beasts, follower of storytellers and poets, genuine friend, and devoted lover, Robert was a rarity among men.
Predeceased by his partner of many years and many adventures, Sally Cole, Robert leaves behind his daughter Soleil Aellen, sisters Linda Osborne and Cheryl Ann Kelly, and his loving partner of later years, Tannice McKillop. His uncommon strength of character inspired unquestioning confidence and trust in these and so many others, and to the end he weathered the storms of life with stoicism and grace.
Robert, Bobby, Big R, you are sorely missed.
We love you.
Robert was a wonderful man. A rare man. We were friends for many years with him and Sally, and shared lots of fun and intelligent conversations on his visits. He was a very kind man with strong social justice qualities, forever the vigilant voice for change for a better world. We met later in life and compared notes of our few years in the music world in the ’70s, Vancouver, he with his saxophone abilities and me doing solo gigs in the same clubs, yet not crossing paths till we both arrived here on Salt Spring.
Robert was a quiet, clear-thinking man, with a heart of gold. He is greatly missed, and left us far too early. Peter and Mona.