I was very saddened to learn today of Hugh's passing. Hugh and I worked together for many years, and he was unfailingly reliable, with an old school work ethic. I could always count on him, and whenever I sent him in my stead I had full confidence that the job would be handled superbly. It was as I was purging old files today that I decided to look him up today and try to re-connect again. I had moved to Belleville from the GTA several years ago, and sadly lost contact after that. I'm fortunate, however, to have met him a year or two before his passing, at a Swiss Chalet in Whitby. I never suspected it would be our last shared meal - on Earth at least. Rest in peace, Hugh, and best wishes to Ev and all of his family.

David Gibb
Belleville, ON

Evelyn,
So sorry to hear about Hughy.
Bill, Hughy and I grew up together
on Forman Ave and we had some great times together.
Please accept our condolences at this difficult time,
Doug & Rosemary

We have had the privilege of living across the road from the Robertson family for 26 years. During that time Hugh showed himself to be a responsible, caring, and kind neighbour. After my snowblower broke down, Hugh pitched in by clearing my driveway with his snowblower rather than see me or my wife shovelling snow. This was the mark of a true gentleman and when something prevented Hugh from performing this act of kindness, Evelyn, Stephanie or Jacob would often assume the task of snow removal for us before we could get to the shovel.

Hugh and I particularly grew close though our joint love of motorcycles and riding them. We enjoyed many rides together. Our last was a short jaunt to Port Perry for a coffee and donut. I will sadly forever miss my good friend and riding partner. On one visit before Hugh's passing while siting at his bedside holding Hugh's hand, he began to cry and told me to go on a motorcycle ride when I returned and cautioned me to ride safe. I knew that as Hugh was mumbling these words through his oxygen mask he fully knew that we had enjoyed our final ride together.

To the entire Robertson family let me state that we share in your grief. You have lost a husband, father and a grandfather while we have lost a truly valued friend. While I understand that there is no comparison, the gut-wrenching pain is still there. We love you Hugh!

Jack & Shirley

Hugh’s family and my family both moved to Whitby at the same time in 1991. For 27 years Hugh and I were neighbours. We each had 2 daughters, although not close enough in age to be playmates. We each lived busy lives, pursuing careers, encouraging our girls, loving our families, dealing with all that life was throwing at us – putting up fences, landscaping, dealing with lawns, replacing roofs, repairing fences, etc. Hugh was a true handyman. I could ask him about home renovations, carpentry, electrical work, or plumbing, and he would have the answer.

The day Hugh left for what would turn out to be his final stay in hospital I was having Bell install TV / internet services at my house. The installer said my line was defective, but he could temporarily tap into my neighbour’s line if I thought he would allow it. He asked if I was on good terms with my neighbour. I said I was. He knocked on Hugh's door to ask permission and in seconds came back and said, “Well that was easy. You must be good friends.”

We would get together only infrequently but we knew we could count on each other if ever there was a need. And in winter there was frequently a need. Hugh had a snowblower. For years I did not. During heavy snowstorms, or after the snow plow would deposit a heavy load at the end of my driveway, I would come home from work at the end of the day to find that Hugh had cleared my driveway. It was always so appreciated. (From time to time, Evelyn and Stephanie would also operate the snowblower.) Many other neighbours on Corner Stone Crescent were also beneficiaries of the Robertson’s kindness.

We celebrated many family milestones as neighbours. Hugh and Evelyn danced at my daughters’ weddings. We shared the joys of becoming grandparents and the pain of illness and loss. In our last conversation this summer, Hugh was talking about fence repairs he was planning. He appeared vibrant and energetic. That is how I will remember Hugh.

They say that grief is the price we pay for love. In that sense, our grief is a blessing. We grieve today for someone who has touched our lives deeply.

Evelyn, Stephanie, Patricia and family: It was an honour to have known Hugh. Please accept our condolences on Hugh’s passing. We will truly miss him.

Terry, Bonnie & family