Obituary of Robert Pattison Alexander

Robert Pattison (Bob) Alexander

Born: October 15, 1940

Died: June 25, 2020 at Nisbet Lodge, Toronto, of Progressive Supranuclear Palsy

Survived by:

sons Jon and Stefan; ex-wife, Gaye-Frances; sisters Nan (Chuck) and Jean (David); and by his chosen family:  Valerie, Simon, Rachel, Maihyet, Lylah, Maike, Timar, and Oliver

Bob lived his early years in and around the Bay of Quinte, in Belleville and Prince Edward County.  His extended family was large, and life with his siblings, aunts, uncles and cousins centred on their Christian chapel, bible camp and the family cottage, Thistledew.

A top student and well-rounded athlete, Bob spent his high school years achieving excellence in academics and a number of sports, but particularly baseball, which he loved.

After graduating from Queen’s University with a B.A. (hons) in chemistry, Bob’s search for a personal faith based on science and humanity led him to Chicago Theological Seminary.  There he earned his Masters of Theology and was ordained in the United Church of Christ.  He was particularly proud of his work alongside classmate Jesse Jackson in communities on the south side of Chicago, and of having marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

On his return to Canada, Bob worked for the rest of his life advancing social and community development, both professionally and as a volunteer. With the late Jack Layton and Dan Leckie he was a founding member of the White Ribbon Campaign opposing violence against women.  Skilled at good governance, Bob chaired a number of prestigious boards, including the Canadian Hearing Society.

In his last days, friends from all over Canada and beyond shared memories of Bob; citing his passion for social justice, love of learning, astonishing knowledge, kindness to friends and strangers, irreverent wit, hearty laugh, and brilliant smile.  He was a big man with a warm presence.

Thanks to the staff at Nisbet Lodge, particularly Grace and Penny, who dignified his final years with remarkable care and compassion.

May all be fed; may all be healed; may all be loved.

Please share your memories, photos and sentiments of Bob's life here at her memorial web page.

Uniquely entrusted to eco Cremation & Burial Services Inc. 

Life Celebrations. Done Differently.