Robert Kenneth Collins

It is with immense sadness that we announce the recent passing of Robert Kenneth Collins: teacher, metalworker, musician, father, and friend.

Born in Vancouver in 1946, Robbie fondly referred to himself as an “East Vancouver boy” when sharing his vast collection of stories about the city and his life growing up near Clark Park. A talented drummer, Robbie honed his craft through many years in the pipe band community of the lower mainland, playing at different times in the Optimist Pipe Band; the Seaforth Cadets Pipe Band; the Port Moody Pipe Band; the Triumph Street Pipe Band; and the Simon Fraser University Pipe Band, among others.

A perpetual student of history and master storyteller, there was no audience Robbie couldn’t engage with humour, whimsy, wisdom, or drama. Drawing on a wealth of life experience—from his time as a Red Seal metalworker, to his band trips, to his family’s heritage in the Scottish Highlands—the relationships he built were reinforced with the steady spinning of many a yarn.

Robbie was always the first in line to lend a hand, setting up and taking down stages, AV equipment, tables, costumes, or wall hangings—and often driving kids to and from practices, performances, rehearsals, and games without hesitation nor complaint. This is a character trait that manifested in all aspects of his life.

Despite his other passions in teaching and metalwork, music filled every waking moment in Robbie’s life. Whether listening to music, learning it, teaching it, or playing it—he ensured, every day, that his time on earth would be impeccably decorated with sound.

Robbie leaves his beloved wife Sharyn, his children Lauryn and Michael, countless friends, and many communities in Vancouver and on Vancouver Island that will miss his presence dearly.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.