Robert Gordon BRODIE
Robert Gordon BRODIE
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Robert BRODIE Obituary
BRODIE, Robert Gordon July 22 1931 - May 6 2011With sadness we announce the passing of Robert, peacefully and with love around him at 23:59 hours on May 6, 2011. Robert leaves behind his loving wife Suzanne and daughters Taryn, Dallas (David Ash) and Fiona (Peter Rose), and his five grandchildren whom he loved so dearly: Alana, Andrew, Charlie, Katie and Madeleine. Robert also leaves behind his brother Mac (Nancy) and his sister-in-law Jone (Russ Fraser). He was predeceased by his brother Hall. Unfailingly reliable, generous, kind and fun to be around, his family is bereft. Robert, or Bob, will be remembered by countless people whom he impacted, as he helped shape the many organizations he led in Vancouver. Graduating from UBC in 1953 with a BSc in Mechanical Engineering, he initially worked as an industrial Sales Representative for Imperial Oil for three years until he was accepted to Harvard Business School, completing his MBA in 1958. In 1959 he formed Merit Oil Co. Ltd. starting with one gas station at 4th and Cypress in Vancouver. This station was ground breaking, having the first automatic car wash and frequent visitor coupon system in the business. In addition, Robert built enormous customer loyalty with his free car wash with any fill-up policy as well as his business approach of always maintaining a gas price that was lower than that offered by the majors. The queue for the Merit gas pumps at the 4th Avenue station regularly stretched all the way up Cypress Street to 5th Avenue and west around the corner. By 1980 Merit Oil operated 56 stations throughout BC and had secured a stunning 8% of BC's retail gasoline market. After selling to PetroCanada in 1981, he focused his efforts on real estate investment and development companies that he founded in the 1960's. From 1986-1990 he was Chairman and President of Turbo Resources Ltd in Calgary and shaped that company's restructuring. He was a Director of BC Gas for 24 years, from 1978-2002, and of Trans Mountain Pipeline Company Ltd. from 1983-2002. Robert was deeply involved in and provided stability and leadership to the many important civic responsibilities he assumed. He was President and Chairman of the Vancouver Symphony Society (1972-1974). During his tenure and through not only his organizational skills but also his immense talent for public speaking, the VSO realized its largest ever subscription base growth to over 30,000 with concert seasons sold out and made its first ever international concert tour. In 1977 the VSO moved into the Orpheum, which was saved in part due to Bob's on stage appeals for the audience to send letters to City Hall. He was a Director then Chairman of the British Columbia Automobile Association (1977-1994, and 1988-1990), Commodore of the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club for a rare two year term (1977-1979) overseeing the Club renovation and renewal. His dedication to the RVYC continued for years on its Long Range Planning Committee to protect and improve its future. In 1986 he was elected Honorary Life Member of the RVYC. Bob was a Governor of the Olympic Trust of Canada (1978-1979), Trustee of the BC Sports Hall of Fame and Museum (1980-1987), and President and Chairman of the Vancouver Art Gallery (1983-1985) overseeing the organization's move into the old Law Court building. He became President and Chairman of the Canadian Automobile Association (1985-1987), Founding Chairman of the Vancouver Symphony Foundation (1992-2000) and in 1993 he received the 125th Confederation Medal of Canada for "significant contributions to compatriots, community and Canada". The charitable Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem became his main focus in retirement between 1993-2005, where he rose through the ranks to be elected Grand Master in 1998 and latterly Grand Master Emeritus. Robert's greatest joy and passion was boating. He was a competitive Soling and later Star Class racer, narrowly missing by one place a spot on the 1976 Olympic Team. He treasured above all cruising the beautiful BC Coast aboard his yacht Horizon V. Be at peace, Robert, your job here is done. Robert's ashes will be put to sea during a private ceremony offshore of the RVYC on Friday, June 3 at 13:00 hours followed by an open Memorial Reception from 13:30-16:00 hours. Please visit "remembering.ca" to post your greetings and remembrances.
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30 Entries
Mick morrison
October 4, 2024
Sure was a remarkable man mick and Suzanne Morrison from Cape Breton enjoyed a rest on Bobs bench in Stanley park while visiting our son Colin,a naval architect engineer here in Vancouver.Thanks Bob for the seat.R.I.p.
Susan Tomlin
June 8, 2011
Dear Suzanne and family,
I'm so sorry to hear about Robert. I didn't hear about his passing until yesterday.
My mom Jane Tomlin ( Robert's Cousin ) was always proud of him. She kept a magazine article about his accomplishments from the 1970s. In her later years she kept it tucked in her wallet to show friends and family. After mom passed away I gave the article to Mac for safe keeping.
The world is an emptier place without Robert.
Bill Love
June 3, 2011
Suzanne, Dallas, Fiona and Taryn,
Today we said goodby to a great man. I had the privilage of knowing Bob since 1971. He was instrumental in my venturing out on my own in October of 1982, giving me the courage to practice on my own. In reading the comments of others, Ron Cliff's comments reminded my of the picture taken during the 1977 trip to Alaska which hung on Bob's office wall of his boat and Ron's facing nose to nose. During the years I had extensive dealings with Bob, from 1971 until after he and Suzanne moved to Barbados, I felt I always worked with Bob, never for Bob. I will always remember one time when Bob asked me for a reference and how proud I felt. Dispite his failing health, I was fortunate that the last time I saw Bob he had fond memories of dealings we had with each other.
I am truly blessed that I had the opportunity to have known Bob for many years.
If there is anything Karen and I can do during these difficult time, please do not hesitate to ask.
William King
June 3, 2011
Upon hearing your father's passing, I am truly and deeply saddened. My sympathy and that of my father and mother goes to your family Taryn, your mother Suzanne, sisters Dallas & Fiona.
Having known Robert while I was growing up and now remembering youthful and playful times such as those of watching you Taryn and your father gleefully having swimming races in your backyard pool. It still causes me to smile warm-heartedly recalling your Dad checking his watch between laps before continuing on with the race, as you and your Dad had so much fun!
I never forgot when you invited me over to your house when you were first back in the summer from Yale and as we gathered in your backyard for a cool beverage, shaking your father's hand and him saying Bill "please call me Bob". Your father had that great talent of putting people at pleasant ease with his sincere cordial greeting and affable smile. My father also recounts when we met on the Shaughnessy golf range and Bob being so gracious and eager inquired of my father as to the secrets of my fathers golf swing! It was great seeing our fathers discuss the "mysteries of golf", while we just smiled and laughed.
It was very special knowing your father, Taryn.
Much love from my Family to Yours, Bill.
William (Bill) King, Jr
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Michelle MacLaren
June 3, 2011
Fiona I am so sorry - your Dad was an amazing man and an incredible Father. I am forever grateful for the wonderful experiences he gave us as children, being a part of the sail passes, adventures on the boat, fireworks on July first, swimming at your house ... I remember how hard he laughed at your wedding when we reminded him of our childhood antics. He will be greatly missed. I send you and your family much love. You are in my thoughts,
Love xo Michelle (MacLaren)
John Brodie
June 3, 2011
Dear Aunt Suzanne and family,
Robert's dedication to his community and family will be sorely missed. I hope our generation will live up to his legacy.
Kitty and I offer our support in anything you may need.
Love,
John and Kitty
Michael Fahy
June 2, 2011
Fiona,
I am very sorry to hear about your Dad's passing. I know he was very special to you and your family.
On behalf of all the Fahy family, including Joan and Bernie, I would like to extend our condolences to everyone in your family.
Dallas Ross
May 30, 2011
I pass my heartfelt condolences to all of the Brodie family for your loss.
Bob was a wonderful man and I felt very lucky to have developed the friendship I had with him. He had a keen intellect, a dry sense of humor and always offered valuable insight. He was honorable and kind. He had a gentle demeanour but a will of steel that had undoubtedly contributed to his competitive successes, which were numerous and substantial. Bob always had a twinkle in his eye and offered much encouragement to those around him. I admired Bob a great deal and will miss him too.
While his life has ended, the many organizations he helped develop and prosper live on much more strongly due to his leadership.
I have many fond memories of him but a heavy heart on the news of his passing.
Deborah Dean (Hall)
May 26, 2011
Dear Suzanne and family,
We wish to extend our condolences to you at this time. May you be strengthen by the love and support around you by the many who knew and cherished Robert as a friend, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and mentor. We will miss him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Gone, but not forgotten.
With much love,
The Hall Family (Carmen & children)
May 25, 2011
When I think of Bob I recall a compassionate Capitalist. He was the consummate professional, his positive attitude was contagious.
Bob was an obvious entrepreneur. His intelligence, foresight and attention to detail led him to be successful in all that he undertook. I was fortunate to be the recipient of Bob’s mentorship for several years at Turbo Resources and afterwards when his encouragement and wisdom led me to pursue my dream – starting and building my business.
Bob was responsible for my attending his alma mater – H.B.S. This was a truly life changing experience and illustrated his belief in people and their capability to realize their dreams and aspirations when given the opportunity, training and tools. I will forever have the fondest memories of a great friend, mentor and inspiration.
Greg Thomson
The Ash Family
May 24, 2011
Dear Suzanne and Family: It was with great sadness that we learned of Robert's passing. Please know that you are in our hearts and our prayers at this difficult time, and as the days and weeks pass may the continuing love and support of family and friends carry you through.
Andrew Veuger
May 20, 2011
Dear Mrs. Brodie and family.
I was saddened to hear the news of Bob's passing. When I was learning to sail in the JTP at RVYC I had many chats with Bob about moving up to the Star class from 420's and with his encouragement and advice I purchased my Star boat at age 14. Bob always made himself available if I had any questions and was a true mentor. He will be missed.
Alice Hurst
May 19, 2011
Dear Taryn, Alana and family,
We are so very sorry to hear about the loss of your father and grandfather. He was an extraordinary man who was obviously such a gift to this world and has left a wonderful legacy. We wish we had known him.
Love and prayers,
The Hurst Family
Otto Boffo
May 19, 2011
To the Brodie Family,
It is of great sadness to read about the passing of Mr. Robert Brodie, an extraordinary man.
On behalf of the Boffo Family, I would like to extend our condolences and prayers for your great loss. We know how special he was to you all and hope that the memories and love you shared will bring you peace now and always.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this very difficult time.
Jay Currie
May 18, 2011
I am very sorry for your loss. I was lucky enough to crew for Bob in his Soling for a couple of years. I learned a bit about sailing and a great deal about how to live a fine and productive life.
Bob was a man who touched and inspired everyone who knew him.
Richard Warren
May 18, 2011
To the Brodie Family
Bob Brodie was one of the finest men I have ever known. Our conversations were boundless, as he effortlessly would go from politics to business, and from yachting to engineering. I think he will always represent to me the best of "old" Vancouver - a simpler time when people knew one another, and were willing to help out with their community.
He was such an ethical man - someone you could always count on to do the right thing, no matter what the circumstance. He must have been a wonderful husband and father. My thoughts are with you all.
Sheila McBurney
May 17, 2011
Dallas
We were so sorry to hear of the passing of your Dad. We are thinking of you and your family during this difficult time.
Sheila, Danny and Stephanie
Peter Godfrey
May 17, 2011
Dear Suzanne and family...please accept my heartfelt sympathy in your loss...its been many years since our BCAA days but Bob was a loyal friend and always offered thoughtful advice to the Board and myself...he will be missed...Peter Godfrey
Dan McBurney
May 17, 2011
Dear Dallas,
Sheila and I are sorry to here of the loss of your father. He was obviously an extraordinary man who will be greatly missed by you, your mother and sisters.
Our thoughts are with you and your family.
Dan, Sheila and Stephanie
Ron Cliff
May 17, 2011
It is a great sadness of mine to read about the passing of one of my very best friends, Bob Brodie.
Over many years we shared a variety of activities: Bob got me involved with RVYC and I got him involved with the Vancouver Symphony. He was a valued member of the BC Gas Board of Directors
Best of all the many memories were the trip to Alaska in 1977 with our twin 70' Monk McQueens and the bare boat charter in the British West Indies in 1985.
To Suzanne and your three girls, my personal condolences and thoughts
Ruth-Anne Sabourin
May 17, 2011
Dear Suzanne, Taryn, Dallas and Fiona,
When the young Brodie family arrived to Cartier St, across the back lane, I began a long "babysitting" career! First, baby Taryn, then Dallas and not long after, Fiona was born! Gorgeous Suzanne, now had 3 beautiful daughters, and they even had Yuki, a beautiful white puppy! Always the gentleman, Robert had to walk me to the back gate and wait til I was inside our house, but he was always interested in my activities.
Bob was blessed with his family and they, with him. He had so many gifts and talents to share with his family, including his parents living nearby, his siblings, and his greater community. As busy as Bob was in business endeavours, community volunteering, he made time to be a great father and mentor, a loving husband and provider. His legacy is certainly this family he leaves behind, with their own significant accomplishments, AND lasting friendships in the wider community where he made such a difference.
Bob loved his sailboat, and his sailing outings. I well remember the day he was taking off in the Maui race...how excited, yet calm he was, in his whites!!
Bob went the extra mile always - in business, forging and keeping long friendships, caring for his aged parents, or the day he came all the way to Richmond, to pick up our own dear father after Mom passed, just to take him to dinner at RVYC, and return him home. Our family was so fond of all the Brodies. Lots and lots of fond memories to cherish.
To know Robert Brodie was to love him, respect him, learn from him - he was multi-talented and gifted, and gave, gave, gave tirelessly, with dignity, honesty and great intelligence.
May those warm, calm winds be behind you, Bob, as you sail on,
With love to all his family,
Ruth-Anne Sabourin (Baillie)
Paul Conners
May 16, 2011
Dallas
Our condolences on the loss of your father. While I never knew him all I could think after reading the obituary was....wow....he was quite a man. You must have been very proud of him.
Take care
Paul and Shirley Conners
May 16, 2011
Dear Suzanne,
I was much saddened at the news of Bob's passing.
I immediately remembered the embarassing incident at a Zete party so many years ago when I introduced Bob to you not knowing that you were pinned!
Bob's service to his community was huge and all who knew him were proud of him.
My sincere condolences to you and all the family.
With love,
Rafe Mair
May 15, 2011
The deepest sympathy of all Members of the Vancouver Commandery, Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Knights Hospitaller is extended to Suzanne, daughters Taryn, Dallas and Fiona and their families.
Grand Master Emeritus Robert G. Brodie, GCSJ, CMSJ joined the Order in 1992 and was Commander of the Vancouver Commandery, Prior of Western Canada, Grand Prior of the Americas, Lt. Grand Master and then was elected, at the 2004 Sovereign Council Meeting in Malta, as Grand Master. He served the Order with dignity and devotion and, although in declining health for the last few years, he was always interested in keeping up-to-date with the progress being made towards reunification.
Yours in St. John,
Commander Richard D. Earthy, KCSJ
Megan Verchere
May 15, 2011
Dear Fiona,
I'm so sorry to hear of your dad's passing. Wow - he sounds like such an extraordinary man...not surprising considering how extraordinary his daugther and grandsons are. I wish I'd met him. I know how hard it is to lose your dad, and my thoughts are with you, Pete, Andrew and Charlie and your siblings and mom.
Megan, Rodan, Riley, Will & Georgia
Shannon Rae
May 14, 2011
What an amazing man! The things he accomplished and the positive and amazing changes he affected in anything he got involved in...what a super star.
I never met him personally, but in seeing what Mr. Brodie did in his life...I wish I had met and worked alongside him...thank you for sharing all your skills with us that strive to be as great as you were...
Carol Jane Cromie
May 14, 2011
The Brodie and Baillie families became friends back on Cartier, living across the lane from each other. We were so fond of Bob and his lovely young family.
He and our Dad had such a tremendous respect for each other that remained always until Dad passed away 18 years ago.He and Suzanne were so kind to Dad after Mum passed away which our family appreciated so much.
I am very glad to have had the chance to visit Bob in hospital this past March, at which time we took a trip down memory lane.
He was a very special man,with a brilliant mind,a warm and generous heart, and a vibrant personality.
Our love to Suzanne and all of the family. We will keep in touch. xo
Wilkie Mah
May 14, 2011
So sad to read the passing of Bob Brodie. I had worked at the Merit Gas Station on 4th. Ave., in 1958 for several years while attending Vancouver City College. He helped me with my 1st. year university Trigonometry on radians. One of my greatest experiences when Bob took me out to Sunset Marina by Horseshoe Bay was on his new boat and he opened the throttle and front of the boat was pointing at a extreme near vertical angle & we were flying and I could only see the blue heavens. The other experiences I had was with Mac his brother and we would go to the Brodie Brush Warehouse and pick up the misc. brushes to be delivered and then at lunch time Mac would meet his friend and we all went to the Racket Club while they played squash. Bob wanted me to run all the Merit Gas Stations but turned down the offer since I was going to UBC. I learned much from Bob on how to observe and correct problems. Bob will be missed by everyone. My condolences.
John Polglase
May 14, 2011
I'm sad to learn about the passing of Bob Brodie. When I was a young man racing Stars at Royal Van in the 1980s he was someone I admired. He was a great competitor but always generous with advice and encouragement. Very sorry for the families loss.
Scott Fenton
May 14, 2011
I am very sorry for your loss. I hope the love of family and friends can carry you through this difficult time.
Sincerely,
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