James Rob' Robertson
September 27, 1952 ~ November 20, 2017
James 'Rob' W. Robertson, 65, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 20, 2017, with his beloved wife Christine, by his side. A man of profound intelligence, integrity and gentleness, he will be remembered for his dry sense of humor and quick wit. Besides his wife, his greatest loves were the sea, walking in the woods with his dog, and sightseeing. He was also very proud of his Newfoundland, Canada heritage. He was a loyal friend, laughed softly and enjoyed reading science fiction. A master of savoring a moment he never took his life for granted. He knew beauty when he saw it and never missed an opportunity to be a good and trusted friend. The sea was his passion and in his younger days he loved to body-surf and walk along a long beach, gazing out at simmering sands, breaking waves and colorful sunsets. He was a true Renaissance man. After retiring from Pfizer, he was proud to be an employee of Mystic Seaport and never tired of sharing his local knowledge, love of ships and Mystic history. He had an extraordinary memory, loved music and learned to play the banjo to entertain his cat. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his dearest aunt Carmel Moore, his stepmother Alice Robertson, and many beloved nieces and nephews who filled his life with laughter and joy. He also is survived by many dear friends and family, especially his wife's cousin, Maggie Tullie and her husband, Mike, who introduced them to each other. He was predeceased by his parents, James Sr. and Isabel Robertson, and his brother, Les Robertson. A grateful thank-you is extended to Rick Gentile for being a good friend and assisting Rob's family at this difficult time. Lastly, there are no words to express love and gratitude to Lynne Whitney, who was there for her sister every day. Friends are invited to join an informal gathering honoring his life on Sunday, November 26, 2017, between 1-3 p.m., at the Meeting House in the Olde Mistick Village, 27 Coogan Blvd. in Mystic. Donations can be made in his memory to Mystic Seaport Museum in support of the memorial garden: Advancement Department, Mystic Seaport, 75 Greenmanville Avenue, P. O. Box 6000, Mystic, CT 06355-0990.
I worked with Robby at Pfizer for years and ran into him a few times after I retired. He was a good friend and I am sorry he is gone. May God be with family and loved ones at this time. Bob Wunsch