1917–2010

Dr Cecil Robinson passed away peacefully on 5 January 2010 in Vancouver, at the age of 92 years, following a short illness.

He was born 10 June 1917 in Chi­chester, Pontiac County, Quebec, the second of three sons of Joseph and Ada Robinson. Raised on a farm near Pembroke, Ontario, he graduated in medicine from Queen’s University in 1943 and served with the Royal Canadian Army Medical Corps in Britain, Italy, and northwest Europe until 1946. 

Following the war, he completed his internship at VGH and received postgraduate training at Shaughnessy Hospital, Queen’s University, and medical schools in London, England, and the University of Toronto; he became a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada in 1950.

Dr Robinson maintained a busy private practice in internal medicine and over the years served as assistant chief of medicine at Shaughnessy Hospital, chief of medicine at St. Vincent’s Hospital, and medical director of G.F. Strong Rehabilitation Centre in Vancouver. He was also the first medical director of the Canadian Arth­ritis and Rheumatism Society. In 1959 Dr Robinson was appointed clinical instructor at UBC and eventually became clinical professor and then professor emeritus.

During his career he was also a member of numerous medical societies and associations. He was decorated for his long service by the Canadian Forces in 1952 and appointed Queen’s honorary physician in 1961. He also maintained a long relationship with the militia, most recently as a colonel with the 12th (Vancouver) Field Ambulance.

In 1948 he married Ann Lucell “Sally” Boyd, and in the years following they raised eight children in a very busy home. Dr Robinson is predeceased by his wife (1991); his older brother, Dr Clarence Robinson (1993); son Denis (1952); and granddaughter Ramah (1985). 

He is survived by his devoted partner of 13 years, Alice Collins, and by his brother Dr Clayton Robinson. He also leaves behind his daughter Margaret, sons Gordon (Daryl), Gary (Bernice), Sean (Sieg­linde), Mark (Vivian), Donald (Wendy), and Keith (Kellie), three nieces, five nephews, 16 grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. 

The family ex­tends special and heartfelt thanks to Steve Taylor, who faithfully served Dr Robinson in his last years, helping him to remain active and independent. The family also extends its appreciation to the Collins family for their support.

Cec Robinson was a skillful, caring, and dedicated doctor to his many patients. The selfless generosity shown to patients, colleagues, and friends, and his devotion to his family will always be treasured.
—Donald Robinson, MSc
White Rock