Robert ACHESON

1939 - 2022

ROBERT ACHESON It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Robert J. Acheson on January 1, 2022 at his home in Oakville. Beloved husband of Mary Catherine (née Boggs) for 45 years, devoted father to Stephen, Hughene (Greg), Edwina and Harris, and cherished papa to Preston and Georgia - all of whom will continue to honour his legacy by living their lives to the fullest. Predeceased by his older twin brothers, Bill and John Acheson. Born September 1, 1939 in Lindsay, Ontario, he was the youngest son of the late William and Doris Mabel Acheson. Raised by his mother, he embodied her indomitable spirit, work ethic and a 'get on with it' approach to life. A graduate of Upper Canada College, the University of Toronto (B.Sc.), Carlton University (B.Sc.) and Ontario College of Education, he had an insatiable desire for adventure and believed in lifelong learning. His first job was in oceanographic research on the HMS Labrador. He then spent three years teaching biology at a secondary school in Ottawa where he served as Assistant Head of Science. Following in his father's footsteps, he entered the investment business with A.E. Ames & Co., where he quickly excelled. In 1975, he moved to London, England with Ames where he successfully grew its European business. In 1980, he returned to Canada, making Oakville home for his family. He was a director of F.H. Deacon Hodgson and then President of Sanwa McCarthy International Inc. He had an entrepreneurial spirit and founded two merchant banks - Lincoln Capital Corporation and Jefferson Partners. 'Bob' as he was affectionately known, was debonair and dapper, charming, fun and funny, with an indefatigable spirit and a disarmingly honest manner. He was the quintessential throwback. A consummate conversationalist, he always offered a listening ear and words of encouragement. An aesthete by nature, he displayed a passion and talent for architecture and interior design, lovingly restoring his Georgian style family home and numerous buildings in Goderich where the Achesons originally settled in 1848. In 2001, he built his dream cottage on Lake of Bays at Fisherman's Point, a true testament to his innate sense of design. He and Mary Catherine were happiest sharing their homes with beloved family and friends. Generous hosts, they opened their homes on many occasions to a mix of charities, think tanks and Bible study groups, once having the honour of welcoming Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex for dinner. Bob loved sports and actively patronized the Oakville Club, Caledon Ski Club and Oakville Golf Club. He was also one of the owners of the Hamilton Tiger Cats for many years, including when they won the Grey Cup in 1999. He was an avid supporter of the arts and proudly served (twice) on the board of the Oakville Symphony. Bob was also a supporter of palliative care and served as a member of the Order of St. Lazarus, two of the many charities and boards that benefited from his generosity and vision. He and Mary Catherine were well-travelled having visited over 75 countries, but loved returning year after year with the family to the Hillsboro Club in Florida. Beneath his sophistication and worldly persona was a deep faith in God and his guiding principle, 'To live is Christ and to die is gain.' (Phil.1.21). He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him. Burial will be private. Celebration of life to take place at a future date. The family would like to thank Dr. Michael Heffernan along with Dr. Sol Stern for their excellent care over the last few years. Memorial donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be made through Oakview Funeral Home at www.oakviewfuneral.ca.