Obituary of Catherine Robbins

The passing of Catherine (Kay) Robbins of Fredericton NB occurred on Friday, January 16, 2015, at Shannex Parkland. Born on June 15, 1924, in New Glasgow NS, she was the daughter of the late William Edwin and Hazel Robertson (Douglas) MacDonald. Kay trained as a dietitian at McGill University, a gold medal winner in the class of 1945 (alongside Frederictonians Vera Swazey and Jessica Robinson). She was happily married to Maurice Arthur (Rob) Robbins for 56 years, until his death in 2001. After raising a family in Montreal, Kay entered the paid labour force in California, eventually becoming Food Service Manager for Marriott Hotels in Los Angeles until her retirement at age 65. She was a long-time member of the Van Nuys Women’s Club and Skeptics Society of America. She moved “home” to Atlantic Canada at age 85; shortly before her death, she said that her life had been “a beautiful trip” and she was immensely grateful for the kindness and love of friends and family near and far, and for the understanding care of the staff of Shannex. Catherine is survived by her son, Neil Robbins (Linda) of Corner Brook NL and daughter, Wendy Robbins of Fredericton NB; six grandchildren, Carol (Jason) Temple, Julie (Murray) Hayes, Douglas and Phil Robbins, Chimene (Ram Fish) Keitner and Haydon (Ann) Keitner; and five great grandchildren, Idan, Shira, and Tali Catherine Fish Keitner, and Lazlo and Conrad Keitner. At Kay's request, there will be no visitation or funeral service, but please raise a glass at your leisure and say "cheers." For those who wish, remembrances may be made to your favorite charity. Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com