Robert Douglas McKelvie

It is with profound sadness that the family announces the peaceful passing of Robert Douglas McKelvie July 12, 2017 in the VG hospital, Halifax.

Robert was an honest, generous, humble, intelligent, fun-loving, determined, and loyal man. His family meant the world to him.

Always willing to take a risk in his life, Robert created his own destiny which included a generous nature and a strong commitment to his community, the restaurant business and most importantly his friends and family. It all added up to a life well lived.

He met the love of his life, Margaret Guy, while at Dalhousie University. They married in 1982, the same year that he and his business partner, Brendan Morrissy, opened McKelvie's restaurant; soon after Robert became a proud father of Sean and Emma.

Robert’s strong entrepreneurial spirit led to the establishment of other Halifax restaurants; Salty’s, and three others. Robert's management style demanded respect and attention to detail. Thus he created a team of dedicated workers who received his reciprocal respect and nurturing, more like a family than a business.

Many benefited from Robert's experience as a mentor and coach. Some felt blessed to have a close relation with him and saw Robert as a surrogate father figure in their lives. Robert was respected as a leader in the Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association, he was a founding member of the Quinpool Road Association, and a long time member of Ashburn Golf Course.

Robert was born June 17, 1948, to Doris (Wakefield) and Douglas McKelvie in Windsor, ON.

Robert is survived by his loving wife Margaret, cherished children, son, Sean (Lucy Medvedeva), daughter, Emma (Sam) Edmonds; sister, Anne (John Jordan), niece, Sarah (David, and children Everett, Quinn) MacDonald, Uncle Bob McKelvie, Aunt Helen McKelvie and many cousins. Robert is also survived by Margaret's sister, Janet Guy-Hamilton and nieces, Rebecca and Kathryn and nephew Matthew. He is predeceased by his parents, several aunts, uncles and cousins; and Margaret’s parents, Tom and Janette Guy.

The family wishes to thank the staff on 8A who provided Robert with excellent and compassionate care: Ashley, Kassandra, David Maginley; the angels of the 11th floor infusion room; Dr. Corbett, Dr. Rayson; and a special 'thank you' to family friend, Kevork Peltekian.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held Thursday July 27, 2017 at Cruikshank's Funeral Home from 5:00-8:00pm. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, July 29, 2017 at Bethany United Church at 11:00am, with a reception to follow.

Donations can be made to Colorectal Cancer Canada, Camp Goodtime, KidSport Nova Scotia or a charity of choice.