Robert William Borden

It is with great sadness that the family and friends of Rob Borden announce his passing on March 17, 2025, after a brief stay in Vancouver General Hospital.

Rob was born and raised in Powell River, BC., being especially proud of his Cranberry roots. His kind heart and love of community fostered many lifelong connections from the area. Rob left Powell River at age 18 to study Forestry at UBC, attaining the designation of Registered Professional Forester (RPF). In 1976, Rob moved to Port McNeill where he worked for several years in the surrounding area as a Special Projects Engineer with Western Forest Products.

Opting for a career change in 1984, he became a Licensed Professional Realtor, specializing in commercial real estate in Parksville, Vancouver and Nanaimo. His retirement years brought him back to the city of Vancouver to reside, providing many opportunities to renew enduring ties and cultivate new treasured friendships as well.

Rob was inquisitive by nature motivated by a desire to learn and be adept. He had many varied interests, including Ford trucks (he wouldn’t be happy if you bought a Chevy), the history and evolution of the different communities he once called home, being on the water, a love of animals, staying in touch with so many friends, and forever keeping a keen eye on real estate, especially Cortes Island, Texada Island and Nanaimo. The last decade brought significant health challenges, but through it all Rob remained kind, hopeful and never lost his ability to tell a good story.

Cortes Bay on Cortes Island held a special place in his heart and the time spent there with his dad, Vern, were among his most cherished memories. The affinity he had there with both the land and people established a feeling of home that was unparalleled – it was his sanctuary.

Predeceased by his father and mother, Vernon and Margaret (nee La Fontaine) Borden, he is survived by his sister Marilyn, nieces Jaki and Jeni and their families, his extended family, his very special friends Helen and Joseph, many, many other friends too numerous to mention by name, and his beloved companion, Amelia.

We wish to thank the staff at VGH, T6A for the compassionate care provided in his final days, his family physician Dr. Malcolm Hedgecock, along with all the physicians and health care providers involved in his care prior to hospitalization.

Rob’s generosity was well known. If wished, remembrances in Rob’s name would be gratefully appreciated by the BCSPCA.

No service by request.