passed away February 14, 2015 at the age of 94. Born in Waterloo, Ont. she grew up in a household full of music. Luckily both Jean and sister Louise inherited their father’s wonderful musicality. She married her high school sweetheart, Allan Hayes in 1944 and moved to Nassau where he was based. An R.C.A.F. Flying Officer, he was tragically killed months after they wed.
With remarkable support from sister Louise, she returned home to continue a professional singing career, most notably on the Dominion Network in “Singing Stars of Tomorrow” and Good Year’s “Parade of Stars”. In 1946 & 47, she was hired as the concert soloist at the Banff Springs Hotel and the Chateau Lake Louise. In year 2 at the Chateau, she met her future husband and lifelong accompanist, Dr. Harold Robinson, who was also an accomplished pianist. A three-month engagement was followed by 67 years of marriage filled with love and music.
In 1951 the family moved from Banff to Vancouver. Active in the music of her church and the Vancouver Philharmonic Music Club, she shared her talents with family, friends, and audiences her entire life. Jean’s enduring legacy will be the joy of music she imparted to so many. When her husband became the Medical Director Of C.A.R.S., she became an active volunteer in the Arthritis Society.
Jean was a very loving and supportive mother & grandmother, attending nearly every musical performance in which her family was involved.
Jean was widowed 10 months ago. She is also predeceased by her sister Louise and son- in-law Kurt. She is survived by her loving family, daughter Ann Neumann, son Chris Robinson (Paddi), grandchildren Chris, Katherine (Agustin), Caitlin, Jennifer, Michaela, great granddaughter Magnolia, nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to thank the Crescent Gardens Care Staff for their tremendous care and compassion over the past 4 years. A celebration of life will take place on Friday February 27, 2015 at 2 p.m. at Canadian Memorial Church, 16th and Burrard, with a reception following. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Elektra Women’s Choir in Jean’s memory.
Hollyburn Funeral Home 604-922-1221
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