Robert John McGregor Webster
February 16, 2014
WEBSTER, Robert John McGregor
June 7, 1979 – February 16, 2014
Suddenly at home in London, Ontario, Robert John McGregor Webster (34). Beloved son of Allan Ross Webster and Mrs. Margaret Evelyn Webster. Brother of Sarah Ross Howard (Scott), Alexandra Seaton Hill (Shayne) and Mary Margaret Newton Tomas (Robert). Beloved Uncle to Hannah, Jonah, Phoebe, Ewan, Thomas, Hudson, Jordan, Elliot and Ruby. Beloved step-son of Nancy Maltby-Webster and step-brother to Kelly, Leslie and Jackie Stephens. He is also survived by and remembered by many uncles, aunts and cousins of the Webster and Thomson families. Born in Woodstock, Ontario, where he spent his early years. He moved to London in 1982 with his family where he attended elementary and junior high schools completing his high school education at Sir Frederick Banting Secondary School. Robert graduated from Western University with a degree in Political Science in 2003 and maintained keen interest in that subject together with that of film, theatre and music for the rest of his short life. He was employed in the hospitality industry both in London and Vancouver where he thrived and where he would have stayed were it not for a downturn in his health. He also spent a fantastic year in Tokyo, Japan, teaching English to Japanese students greatly enjoying this particular challenge. Before and upon his return from Japan, he obtained some bit parts in local film productions which were a great source of interest and fun and a few dollars to boot. He even engaged the services of an agent. Cremation has taken place. There will be no visitation. A private memorial service will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, a donation made to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) would be appreciated. Know that your words of concern, together with your thoughts and prayers are of great comfort to the family. Online condolences may be made at >www.westviewfuneralchapel.com
“Please try to remember that I lived rather than the fact that I died.”
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To Rob's family, I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing. He was such a kind and fun spirit. I enjoyed my years with him in high school and really enjoyed his spark in Drama. He was the Romeo to my Juliet in grade 12 and it was a brilliant class together. Please know that he will not be forgotten - he was too bright a star.
My deepest sympathies for Robert's family and other friends. We lost someone special who made his mark on this world in a way only he knew how. To Robert: You and I had kind of a funny friendship that ended way too soon. I'm saddened that you or will never again enjoy a cold pint on the patio of the Winchester again, or reminisce about stupid geeky things. I know that you're in a better place than all of us, no more suffering, no more pain, no more uncertainties. For my part Robert, I enjoyed every day we spent together and for the rest of my life, you'll always occupy a place in my memories. Farewell Robert, life goes on for both of us in different ways. Be Good. -Mark
Robert "Pretty Bobby" Webster was a kind and compassionate man. He was a great friend and I will miss him dearly. He was way too young to pass away and I will remember him for as long as I walk on this earth.
My deepest and sincere condolences to the Webster family. I worked with Rob at Steamworks in Vancouver and had a wonderful time. He was one of the first people to approach me and welcome me to the team. I thank him for being one of the people to make my time there so special. His smile was one to remember. We had lost touch, but I was surprised and deeply saddened to hear the news this weekend. Please know that Rob made a deep impression on everyone he met. Sayla
My deepest condolences to the Roberts family.
I am going to miss you my dear, you were a true friend. I will never forget the day you and I went and watched The Producers live in theatre. That was a great day indeed. You were the best person to talk to about and go to theatre with, who appreciated it as much as I do. You were so funny and caring, and I am seriously shocked of this news. Always was there to listen and chat about the most random things. I will miss you so much. You were a kind soul, and it was always a pleasure. Rest In Peace my dear Friend I will miss you so much. Brooke:)
Dear Ross and Family, We want to express our deepest sympathy wit the loss of your son. We heard the sad news from Nancy and John and we are shocked. A young life, with so much to live for, is gone. We hope you will find the strength in the coming months to go on with your own life. Our thoughts from far are with you. With love, Frank and Willemijn Hiemstra (from Schilde/Belgium/Europe)
I was so shocked and sad to hear of Rob's passing. I remember the time we spent together towards the end of high school so well and have many happy memories to thank him for. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
Sending thoughts of love and strength of the family and all who loved him. It still feels like yesterday, bumping into him casually in the street. Once also having the great pleasure of meeting his Dad on a sunny corner in Vancouver. Know that this man touched so many corners of this Vancouver city with his smile. Any many places beyond. Adam
My sincere condolences to Robert's family. You were someone I could always count on with some of the most complicated & detailed events/weddings we worked on. There wasn't a soul you couldn't relate to and there wasn't anyone you didn't have a ready smile for. You made my days brighter and for that I am thankful. Vancouver has forever lost its ray of sunshine. The world won't be the same without you, but is definitely better for having had you in it, however brief a time. You are loved & missed but will always be in our hearts. Rest in peace.
Robert was a very sweet and sincere individual when I knew him. Sadly we drifted apart for no real reason and I miss him anyway. My sympathy to his family as they mourn such a wonderful soul.
I got to know Robert very well and he became a positive influence for me when I was struggling. We could always share our problems with each other knowing it was safe. I'll always remember his positive social energy and passion for music, film, politics, and pop culture. Robert and Margaret even attended my fathers memorial in Hamilton and he joined my family and I on several occasions. I will always cherish our time together and honour his memory. I love you my friend.
Dear Webster family, Please accept my sincerest condolences for your loss. The news of Robert's untimely passing deeply affected each member of my own family, so I cannot begin to imagine the grief and sense of loss you are experiencing. I have so many wonderful and quirky childhood memories of your family. I fondly recall the bustle in your kitchen; Michael Jackson action figure dolls; Buddy and Rusty's romance; G.I. Joe's; playing dress up (and yes, I do recall always wanting to be 'the dog!'); having my eyes covered during 'Melrose Place;' and swimming in your backyard pool. Robert featured prominently in many of these happy memories. He was always so patient with me, despite our age difference and my insistence on being included in what the boys were doing! I hope you know what a positive influence he was on Adam and me and how loved he was by our whole family. Robert will be greatly missed and I will always remember him for his kindness, quick wit and sensitivity. Your family has been, and will continue to be, in my thoughts. With love and sympathy, Danie
Dear Mary and family, Please accept our condolences and heartfelt sympathies in this sad sad time. We hug each other closer at times like these and rely on each other to battle through our hardships. Our thoughts and prayers are with you now. With Love, Matthew-Christine-Anthony
I am shocked and saddend bye this news . My deepest simpathies go out to the Entire Webster family and friends . I was and always will be Roberts best friend . In public school we were together all the time . I always thought we would reconnect someday . Rob , I will see you someday and you will forever be in my heart .
(Donated to Centre for Addiction and Mental Health)
(Donated to Centre for Addiction and Mental Health)
(Donated to Centre for Addiction and Mental Health)
(Donated to Centre for Addiction and Mental Health)
(Donated to Centre for Addiction and Mental Health)
(Donated to Centre for Addiction and Mental Health)
(Donated to Centre for Addiction and Mental Health)
One of the best summers of my life was spent with Rob travelling to the beaches of the Pinery and Grand Bend every couple of days. His sharp mind and fantastic sence of humour filled these adventures with fun and memories that I’ll keep forever. To this day, when I’m trying to think of the title of a movie or an actor who played a certain character, I always think of Rob. Our thoughts are with his family.
I'm shocked beyond words, although we haven't hung out in awhile Rob, we had some great times at Western and you were a good friend and roommate. My condolences to the Webster family.
Condolences to the Webster family. I will miss Rob's huge smile and infectious laughter. Rob, Thank you for the good times I still cherish.
I remember how stoked we were when we were selected for the Banting fashionshow and he comforted me when I fell. He was a really good person and is in my thoughts.
"When the heart grieves over what is has lost, the spirit rejoices over what it has left". ~Sufi Epigram June 7th, 1979 - I remember putting up a big poster outside Ross's office the day Rob was born! I have many memories of Rob toddling behind his three older sisters; he had the most infectious smile and was very tolerant of "the girls". We are thinking of you all at this very difficult time - big hugs xo Love Nicki, Paul, Jonathan & Kate
Our deepest condolences to the Webster family. Thinking of you all.
I am deeply sorry to hear of Rob's passing. May he rest in peace.
I'm sorry to say that Rob and I had lost touch over the years, so I was surprised and saddened to learn that he had passed away. He was a really bright and charming guy with a remarkable memory for people's birthdays, popular culture and strangely enough, the U.S. constitution. Most of all though, I'll remember his silly streak. From his adventures waving a plastic cave man bone out the car window, to the time he camped for weeks in an actual tent right in our living room, even his late night hankerings for a "six-pack" of cheese burgers -- Rob was always up for fun and always seemed to have the biggest smile on those summer nights in our early 20s. To Rob, thanks for the memories. To the Webster family, my deepest condolences and sympathies. You've lost a magnetic personality and a true character.
I met Rob briefly several years ago in Vancouver. He was friends with my friend, Candy, whom I was visiting. Even in such a brief meeting, he made an impression. I remember this tall, confident, and handsome young man with beautiful wavy hair and blue eyes. He was friendly and kind and had such a warm and easy-going nature. I was impressed with his interest and extensive knowledge of American presidents. I could tell he was very bright and had a passion to learn. I am very sorry to learn of his passing. My condolences to his family, having lost this beautiful person so very young.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time.
We are all deeply saddened by the loss of Rob.Our prayers are with you.
My deepest condolences to the Webster family. Rob, thanks for being such an amazing friend through the years. You'll always be remembered.
Ross and family, our very deepest condolences for the passing of your son. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time.
I was friends with Rob through my last few high school years. His smile always permeated through any dark day. I am completely shocked and saddened to hear of his passing, and know my deepest thoughts are with his family and friends at this time. He will always be remembered as a kind, light soul who brought tears of laughter on many an occasion.
I was shocked and saddened to learn of Rob's passing. A former student of mine at Sir Frederick Banting Secondary School, I remember him as "a really great kid" and I'm confident that my colleagues remember the same. A member of my Writer's Craft class, he was an enthusiastic, talented writer and a passionate speaker whose generosity of spirit made him a source of light in the classroom and beyond. His energy and kindness, palpable to all, elevated us all and helped us transcend the demands of the work load and experience the joy of creativity. The world has lost too early a remarkable individual, but I hope there's comfort in knowing that he touched so many so profoundly and joyously, that his light continues to shine through all of us, whom he touched.
I only knew Rob for a short time really in London - but he made such an impression on me that we'd reconnected when he moved out west. I remember him always smiling with bright eyes and a happy genuine demeanor. He was a gentle and sweet soul who's presence will be missed. May he be caressed and looked after now, by the souls that care for him in the afterlife. It really was a pleasure Rob xo
I had the privilege of knowing Rob for most of my life. He was a funny, creative person and we bonded over our love of American History and pop culture. I have so many memories of Rob it would be hard to share just one. He will always be my best friend. My deepest condolences to his family. My thoughts are with you.
My deepest condolences to Robert's family. He was an amazing person and we shared some great laughs working together at a restaurant in Vancouver. He will be missed by all his former colleagues and friends out here in Vancouver. My thoughts are with you.
I'm very saddened and heart broken by the news of your passing. Rob you were a wonderful friend and better yet a kind man! You are alway passionate about your work and especially toward your friends. You had always put others first! Take care my friend. I'll always cherish our memories together.
My sincerest condolences to the Webster family. Robert will be greatly missed.
sorry to here and condolences I was cubs and when high shcool with him in london Ontario rsvp Rob
Dear Margaret, Sarah, Alex and Mary Margaret, Such a sadness I felt after reading about Rob in the paper yesterday. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you and your families. Such a tremendous feeling of sadness you all must be feeling. The last time I saw Rob he called out to me in the most friendly manner and I didn't recognize him..."It's ME --Robbie Webster!!!" After I gave him a big hug we chatted for quite awhile and he caught me up on his adventures and news. He told me that he still loved to play the piano (years ago I asked all of my students if anyone wanted to be a concert pianist and he was the only one who said "YES"...then he proceeded to tell everyone his reasons why...mostly because he loved MUSIC and he could do it all the time!! ) I really enjoyed my lesson times with him because of his complete devotion to learning how to do things well....and he always tried 100%!! I loved his inquisitive mind, and his gentle soul, and his kind words to everyone. I'll always remember one of his first piano recitals when he played a Boogie...he finished and turned and smiled his gorgeous smile and said out loud, "that's the best I've EVER played that!" What more could a teacher ask!! I've just put away a Christmas gift you gave me years ago...a bronze fabric angel -it always has a special spot in our home, and now I'll see Rob's smiling face every time I walk by it. Thank you for letting Rob be part of my life....we will miss him in our lives. Love to all, Carol
Dear Websters, Please accept our deepest condolences on the passing of Robert. So, so sad! We all have such fond members of all the Webster children swimming at mom and dad's every summer. Going to African Lion Safari, and much later when I baby sat 4 teenagers!! Robert was the easiest!! Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you.
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Ross, I've just heard the tragic news of your son Robert and can only imagine the shock and pain you and your family are feeling. My thoughts and prayers go out to you all, along with my heartfelt sympathy.
~ James Ross