Obituary of Thomas (Tom) William Robinson

February 10, 1951 - Edmonton, Alberta

December 20, 2021 - Calgary, Alberta

It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Tom Robinson on Monday, December 20, 2021.

Tom was born on February 10, 1951 and spent his childhood between Edmonton and Calgary. He graduated from the University of Alberta with a law degree in 1974, and it was in that year that he married Sandy. Their forty-seven-year adventure began when they bought a Volkswagen van in front of the American Express office in Amsterdam. Upon returning to Calgary, Tom began his law career. He was an exceptional lawyer. Many of his best friends started out as clients. Tom was always looking for adventure, so when an opportunity to work in Tokyo arose, he jumped at the chance. This was a wonderful life lesson for his children to take an opportunity when it presents itself. He mastered the language and immersed himself in the culture. His Japanese co-workers believed he had a Japanese soul. After four years in Japan, he moved the family back to Calgary, where he resumed his law practice. Tom bought a sailboat in 2004 and began preparing for his next adventure. He sailed to many exotic places, including Mexico, Hawaii, Tonga, Samoa and his final destination to New Zealand. During this time, he was thrilled whenever family and friends joined him on the seas.

When Tom was diagnosed with cancer in 2014, his sailing days were behind him. He found joy in spending time with his wife, Sandy, and his children, Bill and Keltie. Whenever they entered the room, he lit up. That light also shone bright when his most precious friends and his grandchildren spent time with him. He spent his hours sharing his love of books. Tom continued the family tradition of spending long, wonderful summers at Lake Windermere, where he enjoyed driving the powerboat, and teaching his children and grandchildren all the fun things you can do on the water. Tom’s favourite saying sums up his life well, “you will not always have the things you have, but you will always have the things you did.”

Besides his loving wife Sandy, Tom is survived by his children, Bill (Katie), and Keltie; and three grandchildren, Hannah, Charlotte and James. Tom is also survived by his brother Larry, sister-in-law Monica; and nephews, Alex and Colin. Tom’s beloved dog Toby, is missing him as well. Tom was predeceased by his parents, Bill and Shirley Robinson.

Funeral Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB) on Thursday, January 13, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. Those attending will be asked to provide valid government identification (with name and date of birth) AND confirmation of their Provincial vaccine record with QR code (paper or digital) OR be under 12 years of age. Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Mr. Robinson’s service streamed live (see below)  on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed here.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to The Calgary Humane Society, 4455 – 110^th Avenue S.E., Calgary, AB  T2C 2T7, Telephone: (403)205-4455, www.calgaryhumane.ca. 

In living memory of Tom Robinson, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.

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