Obituaries

 

Mark Francis Robertson

Passed 05/21/2022

Text:

Obituary For Mark Francis Robertson

Mark Francis Robertson of Halifax, Nova Scotia passed away on May 21, 2022 at the age of 66. He was born June 14, 1955, son of the late Ronald Albert Robertson and Frances Patricia Robertson. He is survived by his wife, Helena Elizabeth Jean Robertson (nee. Calnen), and his children Ian Mark Robertson, Mary Elizabeth Robertson (Nicholas Heisler), and Emily Sarah Robertson (Alex Panneton). He will be dearly missed by his siblings Bernice Bullerwell (John), Lance Robertson (Catherine), Nancy Muise (Paul), and Sidney Robertson (Shelley), along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Mark worked for the Government of Canada for over 32 years as a microbiology analyst, where he tested the quality and safety of harvested and imported food, originally as part of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, and eventually the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. He was recognized by the Canadian government for his contributions upon his retirement in 2009, helping to keep citizens food safe and training others in this important and often overlooked line of work. For much of his adult life, he lived with his wife and children in Milford Station, Nova Scotia and enjoyed a wide variety of hobbies and pastimes. In his younger years, he was an avid photographer, sailor, cyclist, and scuba diver. Through his middle ages, he enjoyed astronomy, bird watching, car mechanics, model railroading, carpentry, and motorcycling, the latter of which introduced him to lifelong friends and adventurous trips and tours. He was always active in his children’s lives and education, introducing them to music, nature, science, and history, subjects they carry forward in their lives and even their careers.

His late years were often overshadowed by illness and struggle brought on by the effects of diabetes, something he fought and treated with determination for over 25 years. Complications left him with a severely weakened heart, blindness, and kidney failure. Despite this, Mark will be remembered for his determination and resilience through these trials, whilst aided tirelessly by his devoted wife Helena. He continued to learn and ponder the wonders of the world around him, explored his beliefs, and kept up on the experiences and successes of his family and friends.

A memorial service will be held at 4pm on May 24, 2022 at 170 Appaloosa Run, Hammonds Plains, NS. Memorial donations may be made to the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB). The family wishes to thank the staff of Caregivers of Nova Scotia, Victoria Order of Nurses, Northwood Homecare, Home Instead, Bayshore Home Health, and the palliative care team at the Victoria General Hospital in Halifax for their care and professionalism. A special thank you also goes out to Cindie Smith, Tidal End of Life Doula, for her guidance and compassion during Mark's final days to both him and his family.

Mark was greatly loved, and will be greatly missed

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Condolences

  • 06/06/2022

    Betty Chayko O'Connell

    Just recently learned of Mark's passing. I am send condolences to Holly and the children l have very fond memories of the family in the years on the waterfront of the fisheries building when our Families were young .Wayne enjoyed his working partner and friendship .Holly and family l am sending kindness and comfort and endless prayers. May God comfort and keep you surrounded by Friend And loved ones close during this most difficult grieving process cherishing your precious memories Betty Chako O'Connell

  • 05/29/2022

    Patty van den Hof

    Holly and Family, our sincere condolences on the passing of Mark. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. From, John & Patty van den Hof & Family

  • 05/26/2022

    Sharon Calnen

    Holly and family: We are very sorry to hear of Mark's passing. Our sincere condolences to you and your family. Eric & Sharon Calnen

  • 05/25/2022

    Stewart Montgomerie

    Dear Helena, Ian,Mary and Emily My deepest condolences at the passing of Mark. I was honoured to have you all as patients and I treasure my memories of that. And.... I miss catching up on all your adventures in life. Love to you all Stewart Montgomerie

  • 05/25/2022

    Darren Snow

    So sorry for your loss to all of the Robertson Family

  • 05/24/2022

    Muriel Aikman

    My Condolences to Holly,Ian,Mary n Emily, Thinking back on Those Wonderful Years in Halifax,Nova Scotia, Great years growing up with Mark n his siblings.Lovely relatives. So warm, Loving and Kind. God Bless You All, Now and Forevermore. God has a New Angel in Heaven. xoxo

  • 05/24/2022

    Carolyn McNally

    My deepest condolences to Holly, Ian, Mary, Emily and the whole Robertson family. I had the privilege of providing dental care to Mark and his family for many years. He was always so pleasant and kind and deeply proud of his family. He was a lovely man and I hope you find comfort in all your cherished memories - Carolyn McNally

  • 05/24/2022

    Wayne Reddin

    To all of the Robertson Family, we wish to offer our deepest condolences on the passing of Mark. I first met Mark in 2002 on route to a rally put on by the members of the XS1100 group. He and Bruce had rode down front m Nova Scotia and I met them in Brockville Ontario and we all rode together to Alexandria Bay in upstate New York. That weekend forged a 20 year friendship that had us cross paths in many Provinces and States. Mark was always pleasant and very caring towards his fellow riding companions and friends. Mark will always be in my thoughts and thanks for the many memories my friend. On behalf of the Reddin family we wish all the Robertson family peace and our deepest sympathy. Wayne Reddin

  • 05/24/2022

    Theresa Lunn and family

    Sincere condolences to you Holly and your beautiful family. Sending you love and light and prayers to your higher power. May you all find comfort and peace in each other during this difficult time.

  • 05/24/2022

    Joe&Theresa Mac Donald

    Our condolences to Holly and your family.Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.

  • 05/24/2022

    Ernest Doucet

    So sorry for your loss. As a retired inspector in the field from Digby and known Mark for 28 years I brought many a sample to him. Always enjoyed seeing him and having a chat. Wishing all his family peace.

  • 05/24/2022

    Rob Robertson

    Our condolences to Helena and family for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. God Bless. Rob & Wanda Robertson

  • 05/24/2022

    Wendy Miles

    I know this is a very difficult and emotional time. Please know that I'm sending love and hugs to all of you. ❤

  • 05/23/2022

    Melissa N

    So sorry for your loss Sidney & Shelley. Melissa & Brian Neil

  • 05/23/2022

    Monica

    My sincere condolences to Ian and family. Your father sounds like an incredible man. Wishing you peace during this difficult time.

  • 05/23/2022

    Nathanial Bartkiw

    My condolences to Aunt Helena, and my cousins Emily, Mary and Ian. I was fortunate enough to see Uncle Mark on my last visit to N.S., he was very kind and I treasure the time I got to spend with him. My heart goes out to you all. - Nathan

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