Basil Robinson

Robinson, H. Basil O

(1919-2012)Basil Robinson, former Undersecretary of State for External Affairs and Officer of the Order of Canada, died on 21 December 2012, aged 93, at the Perley Rideau in Ottawa. A distinguished civil servant, diplomat, sportsman, and war veteran, to those who knew him best he was a loving father, a gentleman, an inspiration, a man of honour. He is survived by his wife Elizabeth, their four children Katharine, David, Brigitte Ann and Geoffrey, and their grandchildren Olivia, Nicolas, Adam, Amalia and Sofia. He was predeceased by his brother Geoffrey, and by his parents Basil and Nancy Robinson of Vancouver. The family wishes to thank his devoted caregivers (Rose, Emma, Connie and Ashley) as well as the staff who supported him and the family at the Perley Rideau, especially those in Gatineau-1 and Gatineau-2 North. Robinson began his family memoir with a phrase his father often used in writing to the families of departed friends: 'Of this man, let us not say il est mort (he is dead) but rather il a vécu (he has lived).' The tribute applies equally to him. A Memorial Service will be held at St. Bartholomew's Church at 125 McKay Street, New Edinburgh, Ottawa, on Saturday, March 2, 2013 at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to a cause that embodies the values he held dear: integrity, generosity, fairness, and public service.