Rev. John E. Robertson

It is with profound sadness that we announce the death of Rev. John Robertson – spouse, foster father, brother, uncle, cousin, in-law and friend.

John was born in Edmonton, Alberta, the first adopted son of Jack and Norah (Johnson) Robertson.

His adoptive parents; his nieces Angel and Chantel, his brother Shane and several aunts and uncles predeceased him.

Left to remember his life are his spouse of 41 years, Rev. Ken DeLisle; foster children Shell, Victoria Flett, Abe Rampl, Chris Moehling, Shayna Keesic, Jamie (Lacey) Murphy, Johnathan Kopchuk and Frank; and very close friend and companion, Aileen Urquhart.

He will also be remembered by his sisters Margaret Forkheim and Mary Jane (Michael) Jackson and brothers Mark (Peggy), Charles (Jana), and David.

John’s birth mother, Donna Blanchard and John were reunited several decades ago, introducing John and Ken and their family to other sisters and a brother. Susan (Claus) Gehrig, Alice (Bill) Waldie, Kristina (Greg) Hall and Sandy (Bella) Janum.

Donna also married John MacNaughton and his daughters Gail, Maggie and Carol were added to the family.

He will also be missed by his in-laws Calvin and Brian (Noella) and sister Bonnie (Terry) and several nephews and nieces from all the families.

John graduated with a BA from the University of Calgary in Special Education; and later became an Ordained Minister in the United Church of Canada (2005) through the In Community Program for Ordination at the University of Winnipeg.

After graduation from the University of Calgary he worked with children in palliative care at the Foothills Hospital. In 1978, his job was phased out and he moved to Winnipeg to be with his soulmate, Ken.

John spent some time as Secretary (and helpful mediator) with Young United Church at the time when Young joined with five other organizations to form Crossways In Common. He then worked with the Society for Manitoba with Disabilities until he decided to leave to become a minister.

Most of his ministry was with United Churches in Beausejour, Pine Falls and Stonewall, as well as short stays or pulpit supply in many other congregations. He and Ken were also the first staff hired to work in the Rainbow Ministry of Winnipeg Presbytery.

He served on several Presbytery Committees and was currently serving on the Executive of Prairie to Pine Regional Council.

John was also an accomplished and wonderful harpist. He played at the Velvet Glove for several years and played more weddings than he performed as a minister!

He met Ken on May 27, 1978 in Ottawa at the first Dignity/Canada/ Dignite conference. It was truly love at first site and a year to the date they held a Witnessing at the University of Winnipeg Chapel. Their picture of the event became part of an exhibition at the Museum of Human Rights on same gender marriage.

One of his greatest joys was being a parent and when things got rough with one of his children, he just told himself, “Buck up. You wanted to be a parent. This is what a parent does.” He loved them all. Abe became a true son as well as a caretaker in Ken and John’s older years.

John was a marvellous cook, loved tea and all things British. He was witty, fun, caring and compassionate. Many remember him fondly in his top hat and cape. He adored his pet cockatoo, Oscar, who laughs like Elmo and screeches as loud as a 747 engine (that is true, not an exaggeration). Goldie, the best mouser ever, will also miss him.

His goal in life was to help others love themselves. He wanted everyone to know they are loved and lovable. This desire sprang from his faith.

To honour John, help someone. Be kind to all. Contribute to your favourite justice-seeking committee. Or make a donation to the Red Cross, the Centre for Christian Studies, Rainbow Harmony Project, Affirm United or the Diakonia of the United Church of Canada.

John has been cremated and a celebration will take place when the borders are open so that friends and families will be able to attend.

Blessings and peace to a gentle soul.

Please Join us Live Saturday, September 18 at 10:00am

https://youtu.be/JQviwn83vxU