With a heavy heart, I must let you all know that my Father, John McKee McRoberts, age 87, has passed away. For so many of you that knew me, you knew my Father. He passed peacefully at Sunnybrook Hospital, with his wife, Nadia at his side, holding his hand. He fought a gallant fight, and passed as the true gentleman that he was. Thirty years ago, my Dad had a quadruple bypass. He has done so well, but his body finally gave out. A hard task for the athlete that he was.

His wife, Nadia McRoberts was at his bedside for as often as she could. She is a true blessing. He was able to communicate with my sister, Linda, my brother John (my rock), and my step sisters, Helen, Susan and Kathy. His grandchildren, were his joy and they all (Jamaar, Daniel, Leroy, Lucas, Alexandra, Giacomo, and Noah) will miss him greatly. His sister, Betty is the last surviving sibling of the McRoberts clan, as Margaret, Billy, Bobby are predeceased.

He represented Danforth Tech and the Toronto Red Devils in track (440 Hurdles). A time that he cherished. He then attended the University of Houston on a track scholarship, were he met and married his first wife, Hollamon (Wink) Rodgers.

My Dad was always at his grandsons games, proudly cheering, and often driving. He introduced them to the diverse cultures /food that he loved in Toronto. I will always be so grateful for the bonds they have.

His neighbourhood is a place were he had a strong supportive community, and I am grateful to the support and connection they have.

He loved his daily workouts/visits to the Granite Club. It was such a wonderful addition to his life in so many ways, and one that he greatly missed this year.

So many gifts from my Dad, one of the strongest in my love of sport and competition, not to be seconded by my love of birds. Through this last year, he had much pleasure watching his birds in the backyard.

The morning he passed, a sliver of the moon was shining and the birds were singing. Whenever I hear the Cardinals sing, I will for always think of him. Never to be forgotten. I love you Dad.


In lieu of flowers, donations to Adam House http://www.adamhouse.org/donations in John’s memory are greatly appreciated.