William Elder Robson

William Elder Robson (July 3, 1926 – April 30, 2024)

Elder Robson died at The Mariposa Hospice House in his 98^th year. He was the devoted husband of Barbara (McKerroll) for 71 years. Elder was the loving father of Bill (Teresa) and Sharon (Michael), kind grandfather to Leslie and Erin (Jess), and playful great grandfather of Adrianna and Evans. He was the son of Raymond and Irene Robson of Crown Hill, and the brother of nine siblings.     

At 16 years old, Elder traveled west to help with the harvest for the War Effort.  He made $6.00 daily, and when finished brought $103 to his mother. He then started his career in the 1950’s as a milkman at Hurl’s Dairy, on a milk wagon pulled by a horse he loved, named Pearl. But soon he became a proud CNR employee for over 30 years, in the role of brakeman and conductor on both passenger and freight trains in the Barrie and Midland areas. He was well respected by his colleagues, who always referred to him as “Robbie.”  

Once retired, he put his chainsaw skills to work and cut down many of the trees that made way for the Horseshoe Valley sub-divisions.  He took pride in his hobby farm on Horseshoe Valley Road, where he enjoyed his vegetable garden, especially his prize asparagus and gladiolas, and for many years he supplied his family and friends with organic chickens and turkeys.  

Elder was a good friend to many, helping with any woodworking projects, from building houses to making furniture and treasured cedar chests.  He loved getting dressed as Santa, delivering presents around the neighbourhood on Christmas morning. He was an avid reader of historical non-fiction and also loved his western novels. He was a loyal Blue Jay and Leaf’s fan and enjoyed following the games on TV. An important curling game could make him miss dinner. 

Elder had an empathetic heart, a compassionate humorous wit, and great love of nature, especially birds (but not so much, squirrels). He will be greatly missed by his family, his many nieces and nephews, and his friends at Willis Presbyterian Church, Jarratt, where he served as Elder Emeritus for 18 years from 1982 - 2000.   

A celebration of life will be held for Elder at Hawke Ridge Golf Club, 1151 Hurlwood Lane, Severn, on June 9^th, from 1 – 4 pm. All are welcome.   

Arrangements are entrusted with Mundell Funeral Home, 79 West Street North, Orillia. Cremation has taken place. In honour of Elder, please consider making a donation through Mundell Funeral Home for the Mariposa Hospice House or Willis Presbyterian Church, Jarratt.