Obituary of Edith Fern Robinson

Edith Fern Robinson (nee Gowan), born December 12, 1929, passed away peacefully at Owen Sound Hospital, surrounded by the love of family and friends in her 88th year on January 17, 2017. Edith was pre-deceased by her husband Jud, and her sisters Christina, Beatrice and Elma. She will be deeply missed by her daughters Laine, Kim, Michele and Andrea; her grandchildren Nicole, Myles, Tara, Emily Drew and Morgan; her many nieces and nephews, friends and neighbours; and, her dear friend and companion Leo. As the fourth and youngest child of George and Nettie Gowan, Edith looked to her three sisters Christina, Bea, and Elma as sources of friendship and inspiration. At age 16, her 40-year teaching career began as a supply teacher for her sister in a one room school house in the Owen Sound area. Edith eventually moved to Newmarket, Ontario with her husband, Jud, an OPP officer, where they balanced careers and raising their family of four. After long careers, Jud and Edith happily retired to Saugeen Shores, and enjoyed travelling to Hawaii, New Zealand, and England. Winters were spent in Florida, always generously inviting friends and family to share in the fun. With Jud’s decline in health and passing in 1996, Edith rallied with the loving support of family, neighbours and friends. True to the Gowan legacy, Edith will be remembered as “always the teacher”. She was a firm believer and vocal advocate of women’s rights, social justice, and in being a part of the solution through action. Throughout the years, Edith would go door to door canvassing for candidates that she felt would protect and support the greater good. Following the example of her Aunt Win, Edith took part in marches decrying unfair practices or injustices when she believed government had gone astray. For many years she has been a proud supporter of the Council of Canadians. Edith was a strong advocate, alongside her niece Cheryl and sister Bea, in the protection of the Great Lakes, with a focus on opposing the build of a deep geological repository for nuclear waste. Fervently independent and active, she enjoyed excellent health throughout her life. She was an avid reader and enjoyed having thoughtful discussions on her latest read. Edith was a very social person who enjoyed a challenge. As such, she purchased a laptop and a tutorial program to teach herself Bridge. With practice and increased confidence, she joined her sisters and friends at the game and went on to win many tournaments. Edith made many dear friends within the Bridge crowd, and it was through Bridge that she met one very special fellow, Leo van Kessel. Leo brought Edith much joy, love, and companionship for many years. Edith often expressed how very fortunate she was in life, deeply cherishing her wonderful friends and family. Many thanks to the Owen Sound Hospital healthcare team for their compassionate and excellent care. A celebration of life will be held in the spring at a date and time to be announced. Arrangements entrusted to the DOWNS AND SON FUNERAL HOME, Hepworth. If so desired, donations will be gratefully received by SOS Great Lakes or the charity of your choice. Messages of remembrance are welcome at www.downsandsonfuneralhome.com Mom/Nana/Edith, we miss you already. Your spirit, love, and encouragement will always be with us.