Obituary
Guest Book
1927
2015
ROBERTSON, I.L. (Lawrence) (1927-2015) - On March 12, 2015, the Very Reverend I. L. (Lawrence) Robertson passed away peacefully at the Sault Area Hospital. A person of profound faith and commitment to family, Lawrence led a life that was rich in achievement, and one in which he exerted a sustained influence within the Anglican Church of Canada and Sault Ste. Marie. Lawrence was born in London, Ontario in 1927, to Irvin and Peggy Robertson. His family moved to the Sault in 1944 when Irvin became the City's Chief of Police (1944-1964). Lawrence returned to southwestern Ontario for university, graduating from UWO in 1948, and later Huron College (MA, Divinity, 1952). Lawrence was honoured by Huron College with its Doctor of Divinity degree in 1980. Ordained in Sudbury as an Anglican priest in 1953, Lawrence then served as a rector in Thunder Bay, Wawa, and Parry Sound parishes before his 1975 appointment as Dean, St. Luke's Cathedral. His boundless energy, practical guidance, keen appreciation of human nature, and the ability to bring sometimes diverse personalities together in common cause were essential elements in Lawrence's 62 year ministry. For Lawrence, family and its joys were the logical and compelling extension of God's great gifts. In 1957, Lawrence met and married his beloved Joyce in Thunder Bay. Their love and commitment to one another has never wavered. As the Robertson children Marianne, Mark and Elizabeth grew, and extended their own families, Lawrence took his greatest pleasure from the innumerable, wonderful gatherings where he could enjoy their love and fellowship. These times often included his sister Norma, her husband Fenn Hankinson, and their family. His combination of good humour, dedication to family and faith, and a commitment to give his best in all circumstances are examples that have inspired all who knew Lawrence as Rector and Dean, father and friend. He leaves Joyce, sister Norma (Fenn), children Marianne Davies (Bryan), Mark Robertson (Karen), Elizabeth Olivero (Philip) and his seven grandchildren whom Lawrence especially loved – Claire, Thomas, David, Erik, Sarah, Jenny, and Katie. In the extended Robertson, Hankinson, and Dockeray families, Lawrence will be remembered forever as a beloved brother, uncle and cousin. Friends may call at the Arthur Funeral Home & Cremation Centre on Sunday, March 15, 2015 from 2 -5 pm. Funeral service to be held at St. Luke's Cathedral on Monday, March 16, 2015 at 2 pm. The Venerable Hugh Hamilton officiating. Interment St. Luke's Columbarium at a later date. Memorial donations to the Sault Area Hospital Foundation, St. Luke's Cathedral or the charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family. Expressions of sympathy may be made at www.arthurfuneralhome.com.
" ...serve the lord with gladness and come before his presence with a song. " Psalm 100
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31 Entries
March 22, 2015
Liz Horbatuk
Norma, Fenn, Alison and family,
Please accept my deepest sympathies. May your memories bring you comfort.
March 22, 2015
Penelope Johnson
I was saddened to hear of Lawrence's passing. As an alto member of the St Luke's choir, one of my fondest memories was looking across the chancel to see the Dean singing with great gusto, head back, cheerful grin, eyes closed, mouth wide open in song. Whenever there is an especially rousing hymn, I frequently think of him, and aim to sing with the same fervent pleasure. My condolences to Joyce, Beth, Mark and Marianne.
March 21, 2015
Karen Holmberg
Mrs. Robertson, Mark, Karen,David and Eric,
I was saddened to read of the passing of such a wonderful man. He had been a part of so many family occasions at St. Luke's,weddings and baptism.
My condolences to you all. ,He will be missed by many.
March 17, 2015
Joyce,
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Our thoughts are with you and your family. Thank you for thinking of the Sault Area Hospital Foundation during this difficult time.
Sault Area Hospital Foundation Staff - Cheryl, Giselle, Melissa, Dave, Christie & Logan
March 16, 2015
Sharon Reczulski
Our deepest condolences to Marianne and the entire extended families. It was always a pleasure to visit with your dad. Hugs always Sharon, Ted and Sean Reczulski (oshawa)
March 16, 2015
Larry and Fran Dew
Larry and I remember the Dean with great fondness. We are fortunate to have had him in our lives. Larry and Fran Dew
March 16, 2015
Shelley Kling
Dear Mrs. Robinson
You were my teacher at Riverview Public School a few (ok many) years ago. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time...
Shelley (Coutu) Kling
March 15, 2015
Wendy Saukarookoff (Mancuso)
March 15, 2015
Pam Briglio
I had the pleasure of getting to know Lawrence when he was interim priest at St. James in Sault, Michigan. He was such a kind man and very easy to work for. I am so sorry for the loss of your husband and father.
March 15, 2015
Wendy Saukarookoff
March 15, 2015
Wendy Saukarookoff (Mancuso)
To the Robertson/Hankinson families, words can not describe the profound sadness that we feel with Lawrence's passing! He was such a huge part of our family through the years, our mother Ann Mancuso (nee Dockeray) respected him so much as he was there for her during some very difficult times and for that we are forever grateful! Rest in Peace, and God Bless You All
March 15, 2015
Jim and Kay Korrey
Our sincere condolences to Joyce and family. We will always remember the wonderful times we had with you in the "HAPPY GANG".
March 15, 2015
Malcolm Binks
Ruth and I send our sincere condolences to the Robertson family. Lawrence was such a strong supporter when we arrived at St. Lukes. His good counsel was always appreciated and made difficult times easier to handle. It was such a privilege to help Joyce and Lawrence renew their marriage vows on their milestone anniversary in 2007. Distance and the uncertainty of winter driving prevent us from attending the celebration of his wonderful life and achievements. (The Rev.) Mal and Ruth Binks, Huntsville.
March 15, 2015
Christy Schaefer & Family
Our sincere condolences to Aunt Joyce, Marianne, Mark & Elizabeth and families. Uncle Lawrence was a great man, always so positive. He will be missed by so many. I remember as a child waiting at the top of the hill at camp for him and Aunt Joyce to arrive in their car to visit from Sault Ste. Marie. Thinking of you and sending our prayers.
March 15, 2015
Ron & Joyce Harley
It is with great sorrow that we heard of the passing of our dear friend Lawrence.It was a pleasure that Lawrence officiated at both our daughters weddings.Our friendship with Lawrence and Joyce deepend over the years and we keep in touch even though we moved to Brockville
March 15, 2015
John and Deborah Adams
You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Our sincerest condolences.
March 15, 2015
Deepest sympathy
The Dean was a most pleasant and interesting gentleman
He will be greatly missed
Andrew & Deane Stinson
March 15, 2015
Jim & Sandra Dockeray
Lawrence was the enduring person of our entire family and extended family. As a Dockeray cousin I never expected to be offering condolences on the passing of this wonderful man. I truly thought that he would be with us forever in person...he will be with us forever and beyond in spirit. Lawrence christened, married and buried many in our family with the greatest passion and compassion. Lawrence you will be missed.
March 14, 2015
Patrick FitzGerald
With profound regret I am physically unable to attend the visitation and funeral of my dear friend Lawrence. He was a tower of strength to my Linda and me for so many years. My sincere condolences to Joyce and family .Pat FitzGerald.
March 14, 2015
Rick Lacell
A very good person indeed. RIP Reverend. My sincere condolences to his family.
March 14, 2015
Our thoughts are with the family at this time. Lawrence was truly an exceptional man and loved by so many. He touched so many lives and will continue to do so through the wonderful memories we all have of him. May we all find comfort knowing that he is with all of our family looking down at us with that wonderful smile of his. Lana (Dockeray), Fred, Rhys and Tyson
March 14, 2015
Lorraine MacPhee
A true servant of God, dedicated family man & special friend of so many. Keeping you in my thoughts & prayers at this difficult time.
Lorraine MacPhee
March 14, 2015
The passing of Uncle Lawrence has left both Gina and I with a feeling of deep sadness. He was such a special friend to my father in his time of need and throughout his entire life. He now sits with his father in a special place. May the peace of our Lord comfort you.
Ron and Gina Jarrett (Edmonton)
March 14, 2015
To the Robertson and Hankinson families, and St. Luke's Cathedral family: Judy and I send our greetings and support on the news of Lawrence's death and passing into God's glory. I remember him to be such a fine leader in the life of the city of Sault Ste. Marie, and the Anglican Church. As such, he was a strong example for a younger guy in ordained ministry like me during my time at Holy Trinity and St. Matthew's Churches. He was a person of sage advice and witty perspective. His impact for good in the lives of many people cannot be underestimated. In the faith,
Padre Dave Donevan, CFB Esquimalt, Victoria BC.
March 14, 2015
Kate Campbell
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of uncle Lawrence. He was such a wonderful man. I remember the times aunt Joyce and uncle Lawrence would visit one island lake. I am thinking of you Robertson family.
March 14, 2015
Monique Hyyrylainen
We will never forget the love and compassion that Lawrence had in all that he did. He was a wonderful man who had a huge impact on so many people. Our condolences to the entire Robertson family. God bless you all.
March 14, 2015
Carol Traill & Pierre Doiron
Since hearing of Lawrence's passing my mind has been filled with family stories told & special moments shared. There is a glorious Dockery family reunion taking place in Heaven with those who have gone before. With deep sadness & our sympathies at this time of loss we send our love and condolences to Joyce, Marianne, Mark, Beth, Norma and extended families. Lawrence has left his footprint on our hearts.
March 14, 2015
Leslie MacKenzie/Pruden
We send our love ❤ and sincere condolences to the Robertson family. Find comfort in remembering your father/husband/grandfather as an exceptional man.
March 13, 2015
We will always remember his beautiful smile and the love he had for his family and friends and all the life's he has touch you will be so sadly missed by all May God bless Lorie and Jim Mancuso
March 13, 2015
Jonathan Petrick
So sorry to hear of Uncle Lawrence s passing. Will call tomorrow as we are in Texas. Our thoughts and prayers are with you love Jonathan and Joy
March 13, 2015
Edmund and Julie Lea
We were surprised and saddened to hear of Lawrence's passing; we have fond memories of his time at Trinity Church in Parry Sound, and of his officiating at our wedding. Our thoughts and prayers are with Joyce, Marianne, Mark, Beth and their families. May you all feel God's grace and comfort.
Showing 1 - 31 of 31 results
Funeral services provided by:
Arthur Funeral Home492 Wellington Street East Barton & Kiteley Chapel, Sault Sainte Marie, ON P6A2L9
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