Unexpectedly, at his favourite place—the cottage. Devoted partner to Sue Clerk and beloved Father of Katie (Shaun) Corbett and Samantha (Ryan) Taylor of Halifax, Nova Scotia. Proud ‘Grandpa’ to Cohen and ‘Grandpy’ to Avery. He will be deeply missed by his Brothers Jeff (Pattee) of Ottawa and Dave (Kendra) of Aurora, and by his nieces and nephews—Ben, Alex, and Evalyn. Rob was predeceased by his parents, George and Betty Taylor, and is survived by his sister-in-law Cheryl (Rick) Henderson, brother-in-law David Harvey, father-in-law John Harvey (Fran), step-son Alex Clerk, and step-grandson Benjamin Clerk of Calgary.
Rob’s greatest joy in life was being a loving Father to Katie and Sam and a devoted Grandfather to Cohen and Avery. Their happiness, achievements, and well-being were always his highest priority, and he never hesitated to offer his time, support, and encouragement.
Rob cherished his time with Sue at their cottage on Dan’s Lake near Maniwaki. Whether walking the bush, hunting, riding his side-by-side, cruising in his pontoon boat, or working tirelessly on the property, Rob was always in motion. A true “doer,” he never waited for someone else to tackle a task—he simply got it done, both at home and whenever family needed a hand. You could always rely on Rob.
As a Master Warrant Officer, Rob proudly served in the Royal Canadian Air Force for 35 years. Enlisting in 1985, he completed basic training and went on to serve across Canada and abroad, including CFB Baden–Soellingen in Germany supporting Canada’s F-18s; Ottawa, supporting Canada’s Challenger jets; Honduras as part of a United Nations peacekeeping mission; Halifax supporting Sea King helicopters; and Borden managing training resources for Air Force Aviation Systems. Known for his integrity, commitment and sense of humour he earned the respect and friendship of colleagues and subordinates alike. After retiring in 2021, Rob continued to support the military in a civilian role and remained deeply proud of his service.
Rob’s final days were spent exactly as he would have wished—at the lake, hunting, and surrounded by cousins and family. The pain of his loss will be felt by all who knew and loved him, but most deeply by his partner Sue, his daughters, and his grandchildren.
The family will be present to receive condolences in the Hall of Colours at Beechwood Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services (280 Beechwood Ave. Ottawa) on December 1st at 9 a.m. A Funeral Service will follow at 10 a.m and an interment with military presence at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations in honour of Rob’s memory to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Digital Guestbook
Kelly Olsen
Jamie Jordan
I am so very sorry for your loss. Rob played a big part of my early career in the Air Force and his guidance had a lasting effect on me, and I know the same is true for many of my peers. I am grateful for his support and mentorship, and I know he will be missed by many across the RCAF.
Frederick Sherrington
I was saddened to learn of Rob's passing. Worked with him in the RCAF in Ottawa and always appreciated his focus on the job at hand coupled with a vigilance to the wellbeing of those on his team. My sincerest condolences to the Family.
Mike Sharp
I am shocked to learn of Rob’s passing. I knew him in Borden and again in Ottawa working for in the “J” WSM office. When I retired I still kept in touch with him occasionally when I was in town.
Rob always provided a few laughs to our chats and loved to talk about the cottage. We shared similar experiences and often laughed about some of the events in days gone by. I am saddened by his loss and sadder still for his family whom have lost a corner stone. A good man has left us, rest well my friend.
Mike
Don Cansfield
Our sincere condolences to the family and those whose who knew Rob. He will be greatly missed by all whose path he crossed. RIP Rob.
Sandra and Ted Phillips
To the family of and to one or our closest and longest friends Susan
We are heartbroken by the sudden loss of a partner, parent, grandfather and friend
As written above
Rob always had a heart for many and did accordingly to always ensure one was made welcome
He mentored many with his wisdom and kindness
May his leadership and caring nature always be a part of those he knew
He will be missed but is in spirit surrounding many of us
Love always
Jon Russell (MWO retired)
I worked with Rob on Sea King helicopters in Shearwater, NS., at the school in Borden, Ont., and here in Ottawa as military and civilian. With a great sense of humor and that booming laugh, he was always a great guy to share the news of the world with. I will miss being able to talk with him every week. It does provide some comfort that he was up at his cottage, doing what he loved. He will be truly missed. Fair winds, and calm seas, my friend.
Debbie Taylor
So suddenly and so young, Rob’s passing will leave an empty spot in the hearts of so many. Many lives will be affected on a daily basis because a good man has left our world too soon. May he now enjoy the company of those who processed him and may he rest peacefully.
Brandon Phillips
I will never forget the experiences I shared with Rob, especially the times spent up at his cottage. He helped guide me through important parts of life, including exploring potential career opportunities when I was trying to understand what I truly wanted. His charismatic nature and openness will never be forgotten. I'll carry his memories with me always.
Goodick family
Very sorry for your loss, condolences to Rob’s family. We have fond memories of a great neighbour and friend on Fieldwood Circle.
OMG he was gone to soon. I spent many many occasions at work with Rob before his (and my) retirement even afterwards. He ALWAYS made me laugh, sometimes too much, with his stories and quick wit. I will miss him greatly as will all who knew him. He was truly a good man and a treasure. Sympathies from me and my family.