Born in Vancouver, Robert and his brother Jimmy were largely raised by their mother Rita. His grandfather, Alfred, also played a very significant role in Robert’s early childhood influencing his appreciation of nature and long walks.
Although Robert essentially grew up in Vancouver, he and his mother did spend an interesting and exciting year in Hollywood. As he did throughout his life, Robert met many famous and infamous people who were attracted to his candid and infectious personality.
After obtaining his degree in Hotel Management from the British Columbia Institute of Technology Robert applied and was accepted into the hotel management training program at the Park Lane Hotel in London England. He was enamoured with the city and returned often over the years. Not only did his year in the UK ignite his desire to establish a career in the hospitality industry he also met his wife Thama who is also affectionately known as Shine.
Robert’s career in managing resorts and his life-time love of the Caribbean began in Jamaica. It was there that he and Shine started a family and he became immersed in the life and culture of the West Indies. After nearly 25 years Robert brought his experience as a General Manager and his deep understanding of island culture to many resorts such as: The Radisson, and the Beach Resort & Spa - Jamaica; Jack Tar Village Beach Resort & Casino; Naco Resort; and Punta Goleta Beach Resort and Playa Grande Golf & Beach Club –Dominican Republic; Anse Chastanet, Ladera and Coco Resorts – St. Lucia; Fort Young – Dominica; and Cambridge Beaches Bermuda. Wherever Robert went he established long lasting friendships and left an indelible mark! Many of his accomplishments were recognized by the esteemed Condé Nast Traveler on several occasions as well as Travel & Leisure. Two that always stood out for Robert were: Travel and Leisure naming Ladera as one of the 500 Worlds’ Best, in 2008 and ranking it #2 in the Caribbean, Bermuda and Bahamas; as well as the Condé Nast Johansens Award in 2006 for the Most Excellent Resort, Atlantic, and Caribbean & Pacific.
Any free time that Robert had he would travel the world with friends. Although he had back packed through Spain and France when he was young, Robert grew to enjoy the comforts and luxury that living in hotels brought and friends who had the pleasure of accompanying him on his trips to Thailand, South Africa, San Martin, Switzerland, Puerto Rico, Saint Kitts, Nevis, Hawaii, New York, to name a few, knew that he would seek them out! Robert’s exposure to world culture and life style cultivated his skill for interior design and decorating; his good taste in fashion; his love of music and art; and his appreciation for simple but great food.
Although Robert adored the Caribbean he wanted to have a permanent home in Toronto where he had done some consulting work in the early 80’s and where he had many friends. While still working in St. Lucia, in 2003 he bought a derelict home and over the next few years transformed it into his beautiful sanctuary.
In June of 2012 Robert was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. Despite chemotherapy, radiation and surgery, early in January he learned that it had spread. Robert knew there was no cure and he elected to spend his last few months in his home.
His finesse in orchestrating and hosting many memorable parties, along with his generosity, wittiness, charm and love of life will be greatly missed.
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