Robert Roland Rafos

Robert Roland Rafos passed away peacefully at his Toronto home with his daughter by his side Friday morning, March 9, 2018. He is survived by his wife Sandra Lynne of 60 years and his beloved sister Marjorie Rafos of Stow, OH and his three daughters “angels” Kimberly Ann Sirrine (Michael), Robin Christine Roy (Jay) and Sharon Lynn Rafos (partner Helen). Four grandchildren, Eric Sirrine (Brittany), Douglas Sirrine (Julia), Justin Roy, Emma Roy; and two great grandchildren Killian Sirrine and Anne Sirrine, and special friend Dolly Munroe.

Robert will be remembered as a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, great grandfather and loyal friend to many. He cherished the time he shared with his family and continually supported their dreams and passions.

Robert was born in Brooklyn, NY. He received his undergraduate degree from the College of Wooster in Ohio in 1957 and his PhD in Chemistry from Michigan State University in 1961.

He enjoyed three careers before “retiring” at which time he became an active volunteer serving on boards and advising many charitable organizations that were close to his heart. From 1961 to 1970, he worked with the Standard Oil Company of Ohio as a senior research fellow. From 1970 to 1989 he worked with the Institute of Cultural Affairs International, a private NGO, in various financial and administrative roles while serving in Kenya, Nigeria, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Chicago and Toronto. In 1989 he helped to found Northwater Capital Management Inc. and retired as a Managing Director in 2003.

Robert will be remembered for his generosity and care for others. He served on numerous boards as an advisor and mentor to organizations that were near and dear to his heart. He was especially committed to Save the Children, Canada; Northwater Capital Foundation and Neighborhood Unitarian Universalist Congregation.

In Robert’s words – “Put whatever you want in an obituary, most importantly how I loved and respected my family, and what a wonderful group of friends and colleagues I have been surrounded with all my life.”

A celebration of Robert’s life will be held on Friday, April 27th at 4:00 p.m. at The Neighborhood Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 79 Hiawatha Road, Toronto. Donations in Robert’s name may be made to Save The Children Foundation or Neighbourhood Unitarian Universalist Congregation.