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Robert Thorp Obituary

THORP, Robert (Giles) With sorrow we announce the passing of Robert (Giles) Thorp on October 2, 2019 after a courageous battle with cancer. Giles is survived by his wife of 20 years, Woynshet (Winnie) Kebede, his son Avery, step-daughter Golda and his younger brother Justin. Giles attended St. Michael's University School and the University of California Davis, going onto a successful pharmaceutical career before retiring in Victoria. Giles was an adventurous spirit, spending weekends kiteboarding at Nitnat Lake and driving his beloved VW Westfalia 'Moby' to the Baja. He was an active member of the Union Club of Victoria and a certified sommelier. As love would have it, Giles and Winnie met at a Whisky tasting event, and together they enjoyed sharing their love of food and wine with close friends and family. As family have said: 'when Giles was made they broke the mould'. Giles and Winnie were active members in her Ethiopian community, with Giles enjoying dancing, celebrating, and sharing with family and friends. Winnie says thank you for the goursha Giles! A man of great integrity and intelligence, he will be sorely missed. Funeral service will be offered on Sunday, October 6th, 2019 at 3:30 pm at St. Barnabas Church, 1525 Begbie Street, Victoria with a reception to follow - all welcome. In lieu of flowers, donations are welcome to the BC Cancer Foundation.
Published by Victoria Times Colonist from Oct. 5 to Oct. 7, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Thorp

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4 Entries

Hugh Macdonald

November 7, 2019

So sorry to hear the news. Some how we tend to feel invulnerable until death reminds us we are not.

I remember Giles's sense of humour and his ability to chase away the blues. It was impossible to be a grouch when he was there to remind you that you should be appreciating life.

October 18, 2019

Dear Winnie, Avery and Giles' extended family.

Alison and I were so saddened to learn, just this evening, that Giles had died . He was a fine friend, so hospitable and so interested in a host of different things. Our thoughts and our hearts go out to you in your great loss. The comment of his family that " when he was made they broke the mould" is very apt. He had a remarkable zest for life. It was really inspiring to see him, even after his initial diagnosis, and treatment, to continue kite surfing with such determination and panache in the Baja. We saw him there once; his enthusiasm as he mastered all sorts of aerial acrobatics was unforgettable.
He was a special soul and will be greatly missed by those fortunate enough to have known him. We met last on 16 August, when he and Avery invited me to join them for lunch at the Cactus Club at Coal Harbour. He was his usual genial self in spite of knowing that he could not look too far ahead.
Rest in peace.

Robb Watt

October 7, 2019

Dear Winnie, near Avery and the rest of your family. I am so sorry to hear your news. I had the pleasure of meeting Giles during the years Avery was a Beaver scout in our group in Fairfield - Giles was a loving father and his spirit lives on most certainly in Avery and in the hearts of all who loved him. I loved seeing Giles at SMUS events, always an elegant figure! With warmest wishes - Danica aka Raven at Beavers :)

Chris Kilford

October 6, 2019

On behalf of the Canadian International Council I would like to pass on our heartfelt condolences to Giles's family. Giles was an active member of the CIC and I often had the chance to speak with him about international affairs at various events. I was also looking forward to catching-up with him over the fall period, and so the news of his sudden passing came as a great shock. He was the nicest man and I will miss him.

Chris Kilford
President
Canadian International Council - Victoria Branch

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Memorial Events
for Robert Thorp

Oct

6

Funeral service

3:30 p.m.

St. Barnabas Church

1525 Begbie Street, Victoria, BC