Robbie D. Macdonald

Born on April 7th, 1962 in Comox to parents Zeke and Joan. Rob had a very active youth, both in and on the ocean and on the ski hills. After graduating from G.P. Vanier, he and two buddies created the Radical T-Shirt Company based in Vancouver. A free spirit as a young man, he alternated between ski racing and coaching in the winters and salmon guiding at Stuart Island and windsurfing in the summers. An epic trip to Australia by freighter from California for the southern hemisphere ski season was a highlight. In the spring of 1989 he was severely head injured in an automobile accident on Hwy 19 near Oyster River. Initially at Vancouver General Hospital, Rob’s recovery was slow and involved many experts and specialists. His mother Joan became his amazing advocate and spent untold time managing his life and care for 30 years.

After several different living arrangements, Rob, the Radical Rainbow, was settled into his own home in Courtenay where he loved his surroundings. He cherished visits from family and friends, his art, and his ability to always work hard on his balance. He saw the potential in his recovery and his dream of walking. His favourite saying was “keep going”. He loved restaurant outings in the Comox Valley, seeing familiar servers and always being welcomed. Lately, a take out coffee and visit to the Spit or Point Holmes satisfied his need for the ocean.

Rob had many caregivers over the years and every one played their part in making his life the best it could be. A true Canadian, among his best qualities was his willingness to apologize and to express gratitude to everyone who supported him. After his older brother Scott assumed his guardianship in 2020, they created a wonderful rapport with countless hours spent together and on the phone, lots of bro-time.

With Rob’s quality of life declining and everyday tasks becoming unbearably difficult, he chose to end his suffering through MAiD on June 23rd, 2026.

Rob’s mom and dad predeceased him in 2020, but he leaves his brother Scott, sister-in-law Christine, nieces Ashley and Alaina, cousin Sandy, extended family, and many friends to mourn.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the Comox Valley Head Injury Society.