ROBERT EDWARD RICHARDSON

1939 - 2021

RICHARDSON, ROBERT (BOB) EDWARD 1939 - 2021 Passed peacefully on April 28, 2021, at his home on Farmingdale Road, Toronto, at the age of 81. Bob was born on a farm located in the Cummer Valley, October 19, 1939, to Chrissie and Walter Richardson, and was the youngest of 4 boys, Bruce, John and Don (all deceased). Life on the farm taught him his strong work ethic, rising with the sun to complete chores before school, the unbreakable bond of family, friends and animals and a true love of tending the earth and the people around him. He met the love of his life, Penny (nee Robertson), when she rode her horse into his field, and it was love at first sight. They went on to an epic love affair that endured over 62 years and were blessed with 3 children. After graduating from Earl Haig Secondary School, Bob went on to Teachers College and graduated in 1961. His first job was as a Teache,r but his thirst for knowledge never waned and he completed his B.A. and Masters of Education from York University. His love of helping students, especially those who were the most vulnerable, led him to become a Guidance Counsellor, and his unique ability to connect, correct and guide students made him the best. He was a true advocate for students and a passionate, engaged and humorous team member, which was evidenced by the longstanding friendships he forged with his peers over a 35 year career. We will always recall his boundless energy, loyalty, delight in a good debate, that hearty laugh along with the twinkle in his eye, and his belief that life and people are basically good. Most of all, we will remember his unconditional love – pure love like that is a rare and beautiful thing. The world is dimmer without him and although our memories of him will live on, his presence will forever be missed by all his family and friends. He will be deeply mourned by his wife, Penny, children, Rex (Daliah), Robin, Toni (John), granddaughter, Courtney (Karel), and great-grandsons, Forrest and Theodore. A private ceremony will be held at Kane-Jerrett Funeral Home next week. A Celebration of his Life will take place when we can all gather again and share our memories.