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Michael Robbins Obituary
Michael "Mike" D. Robbins, 75, died in his sleep at home in Pittsburgh on March 6, 2017.
A graduate of Saint Vincent College (BA '63) and Carnegie Mellon University (MA '68), he was an innovative and motivating teacher for 50 years, first at Scottdale / Southmoreland High School, where he taught English and directed student plays, and then for 45 years at the Allegheny Campus of CCAC, where he taught English, journalism and TV production. He was also the English Department chairman in the 1980s and the faculty advisor for the student newspaper, The Allegheny Vue, in the '70s and '80s. Michael focused on using literature and journalism to teach his students strategies of critical thinking that would make them successful in college and life. He was known for his creative use of audiovisual materials to spark writing assignments like the Cave Paper and for keeping his journalism classes relevant with examples from current news reporting and documentaries.
For many years, he surprised students and strangers alike by his mind-over-matter approach to the weather, going without a coat even in the bitter cold. Although always working to improve his classes, Michael also had an eclectic range of interests, including the Civil War, cataclysmic theories and subliminal advertising, which he explored in his website, poleshift.org. He also enjoyed tinkering with stereo components and experimenting with music composition, but he always had time to provide insight and advice to students, colleagues and family.
Michael is survived by his wife of 50 years, Carole Robbins of Pittsburgh; sister, Peggy Wingert of Scottdale; nephew, John Wingert of Victoria, Australia; and two children, Jooke (Julie) Robbins, Ph.D., a senior scientist at the Center for Coastal Studies, and Ben Robbins, a role-playing game designer and author of Microscope and other role-playing games.
At Michael's request, there will be no memorial service. Instead, remember him as a creative thinker, supportive advisor and an innovative presence in the classroom who made a difference to so many lives.
Professional services were entrusted to Thomas M. Smith Funeral Home & Crematory, Ltd., www.thomasmsmithfh.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Robbins
Sponsored by Thomas M. Smith Funeral Home & Crematory, Ltd..
Eiska Redhawk
June 23, 2021
I just read this. It hurts he is gone. He helped me more than words I can ever express. His emphasis on critical thinking is/was key. RIP kind Sir
Beverly Mitzel
July 5, 2018
:-(
Carole, Ben, Jooke I know I am terribly late here, but of course I had no idea. Please accept my belated condolences. Its a lot to process for me today. What a wonderful and special person Michael was to so many. I really have no words...but my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dave Robinson
June 14, 2018
Remember Mike from the 70's when he was the advisor for the student newspaper and I was in student government. Took one of his classes he was a great teacher
Dr. Dr. Georg Lind
June 8, 2017
As a German exchange student at Southmoreland High School, I was happy and grateful to have had such a dedicated and entertaining teacher as "Mike". He helped me to learn English quickly and, I hope, profoundly. This enabled me to make a international career in science (psychology). Many thanks, Mike! All the best for Carol and your children. George.
Leon DePalma
May 1, 2017
Mike Robbins was my favorite teacher at Southmoreland HS, circa 1968. He was supportive and complimentary, a brilliant mind. Fifty years of giving all of yourself to your profession, what a wonderful legacy.
Carol Barclay
April 28, 2017
Carole and family,
Janice informed me she had a call from Carole McCracken today to tell of Mike's death. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I know how hard it is for you to lose your husband and your children their father.
John Wingert
April 24, 2017
Mike was one of the most influential people in my life.
A lovely man, beautiful thinker, always caring.
It was always lovely to see you at Idlewild Park when we cold be there as well.
Blessings to you, remembering you in love.
John Wingert
April 22, 2017
Mike was a great teacher, creative thinker, and friend. His smile, stories, and determination made CCAC an innovative community. The world will miss his insight and humor.
Margaret Shaughnessy
English Department
CCAC Boyce Campus
April 21, 2017
Mike Robbins hired me as an adjunct many years ago, and several months later, offered me my first genuine job opportunity---a full time temporary position in the English Department of CCAC, Allegheny Campus. Thanks to his encouragement and support, I was hired four years later, full time. I would not be who and where I am today---a tenured faculty member---without Mike Robbins.
I wish to express my deepest sympathy to his wife, Carol, his children, Ben and Julie, and to all family members. Good bye, dear friend and mentor.
Audrey M. Rosenthal
Professor, English Department
CCAC Allegheny Campus
Dale "Satch" McQuaid
April 21, 2017
I had classes with him at CCAC in the mid to late `80's and we got to be friends, at least on campus. He was very probably the smartest guy I've ever met! Strange thing is, I was just thinking about him the other day wondering how he's doing. Days later, I find out he's not with us anymore!! :-( R.I.P., Mike!! You were a big inspiration to me!! Dale "Satch" McQuaid.
Edna Henrich
April 21, 2017
I was an adult student, returning to college in the 90's when I was lucky enough to take 2 of Professor Robbins' classes. While I always loved writing fiction - he taught me how to write using critical thinking and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I have used these skills in my professional journey and am grateful for all he taught me.
You have my deepest condolences. He who is remembered, lives!
Ed Farmer
April 20, 2017
I was one of Mike's students at Southmoreland High School. He was a great teacher who really made you think and work. I also acted in several of the plays he directed and he was a joy to work with. I would say that he is definitely the best teacher I ever had. I'm very sorry to hear of his passing and condolences go out to his family.
Kim Fairley
April 20, 2017
I worked with Mike when he taught at CCAC's Downtown Center. He was always kind and nice to speak with. I am sorry to hear of his passing.
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