Robert Gibson Richardson

Born on a family farm in the small town of Grand Valley, Ontario, from the very beginning, Bob was a young man who took great pride in being independent, and responsible. With a natural curiosity and passion for learning, Bob threw himself into books as a means of escape. Encouraged by his parents, he along with his older brother, Jack, studied hard and attended the University of Toronto where Bob received a Bachelor of Science degree in physics and mathematics. After working at various companies, he landed a position at Molson Brewery where he was the Director of Information Technology in Toronto before he retired at 55.

Bob made travelling the world an important part of his life. As a young bachelor, he worked hard, saved his money, and would take several year-long sabbaticals throughout his career to travel the world on his own. Whether it was driving his way through South America or motorcycling around Europe, or his time around Lake Huron, Bob was a born explorer. It was perhaps this that gave him one of his greatest gifts - the ability to accept people and their opinions from all walks of life, seeking to understand rather than judge, and listening. Always listening.

Thirty-two years ago, while living in Guelph, Mei-Li had the good fortune to meet Bob who was a fellow member of the Guelph Community Choir. The tenor fell in love with the alto and married, merging two lives and two families: Bob with his stepson Drew Edwards, and Mei Li with daughters Sonya and Julia. He loved his family intensely and guided his children and grandchildren with love, generosity and immense kindness and compassion. He was also wonderfully organized and always kept them in line and on track as best he could!

Bob believed in contribution and in addition to supporting his chosen charities throughout his life, after moving to Vancouver, Bob was a dedicated volunteer, spending his time helping coordinate rides for cancer patients through the Canadian Cancer Society’s Wheels of Hope program, and distributing food at the Vancouver Food Bank. Bob was an inspiration in so many ways.

Bob leaves behind his daughters Sonya (Harvey Lim) and Julia Hwang, stepson Drew Edwards (Nicola) as well as grandchildren Kai and Hana Lim, Jacob Turner and Riley and Noah Edwards. Most importantly, Bob leaves behind his dedicated and loving wife, Mei Li Richardson, with whom he shared a rich and beautiful life. From the day he was born until his passing, Bob was a man of extraordinary strength and fortitude, self-discipline, and a quiet and gentle soul. His presence and love will forever and ever be missed.

A private family gathering will be held on April 28, 2023. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be made to Bob’s charities of choice, the Red Cross and Doctors without Borders.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hamiltonharronfunerals.com for the Richardson family.