J. Lewis Robinson

ROBINSON J. Lewis July 9, 1918 - July 19, 2008 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather - J. Lewis `Lew' Robinson - one of Canada's first Geography professors. Lewis passed away peacefully with his family by his side after suffering a stroke the day after celebrating his 90th birthday. Survived by his wife and partner of 63 years, Josephine (nee Rowan), son David (Zonda Nellis and daughter Alexandra); daughters Jo-Anne and Patricia (David St. Laurent and children Michael and Joanna). Born in Leamington and raised in Windsor, Lewis studied at The University of Western Ontario (B.A.) Syracuse University (M.A.) and Clark University (PhD). In 1946 Lewis was invited by UBC President, Norman Mackenzie to start a Geography Division within the Department of Geology, and in 1958 he started the Geography Department at UBC, serving as the first head until 1968; and remained as a Professor until his retirement in 1984. Lewis made an outstanding contribution to Geography in Canada - writing 14 books, developing 9 wall maps and contributing to hundreds of articles - particularly on the geography of British Columbia and the Canadian Arctic. His textbooks and wall maps of Canada were used in universities and schools throughout the country. During his 48 years of teaching Geography at UBC, he taught thousands of students earning him the reputation as an outstanding teacher and mentor. In recognition of these contributions, UBC awarded him a Master Teacher Award (1977). Lewis also received numerous other honours and awards throughout his distinguished career, including the Centennial Medal and Silver Jubilee Medal from the Government of Canada, the Massey Medal of the Royal Canadian Geographical Service and two university honourary degrees. Lewis retired from UBC in 1984, but remained an active force at the institution, establishing the Alumni Association's Professors Emeriti Division - the first organization of its kind in Canada. He was also an enthusiastic supporter of UBC sports and was the Captain of the UBC Old Birds Seniors Hockey Team until he hung his skates up for the last time at the age of 77. Lewis, along with his wife Jo, were active members of the UBC Faculty Club & Gourmet Group and even co-authored a cookbook together. Lewis was also deeply involved in Deaf Education and Sports Development in Canada, including serving as President of the Western Institute for the Deaf. The family wishes to extend a special thank to Lewis's longtime physician, Dr. Bradley Fritz and to his wonderful caregivers -Mila and Hilda. A memorial service celebrating Lewis Robinson's life and legacy will be held at Cecil Green Park House, on October 3, 2008 at 1:00 pm. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in memory to the J. Lewis Robinson Memorial Scholarship fund at UBC (Attn: Maryn Ellis, 500-5950 University Blvd, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3) Geographer, mapmaker, explorer, writer, teacher, mentor, husband, father and friend - the kindest man we ever knew - the boy who ran so fast - you taught us kindness, generosity and usefulness. We will miss you - you gave us the world and more - thank you.