I just found out.  My deepest sympathies.  He transformed my life in so many ways.  First met him when he worked at Eatons While he was completing his Degree at UofA.  He took me out dancing.  We would go for coffee at Highlevel diner.  And became good friends.  Rest in peace my brother.

I am only hearing of the passing of Kenneth now... I am very saddened by this news.  Ken and I took Design at the University of Alberta together and shared a locker for many years.  I had many good memories of time shared around the design table helping each other work on projects and talking about the future over coffee and lunch in the way that 20-year olds do.  

With time, our paths diverged, but Kenneth's name kept coming up in unexpected ways with other people I met in life to remind me of how small the world is.  He was a gentle soul.

My condolences to his partner and to his family and to everyone that was touched by this event.

Deep and sincere heartfelt  condolences to family and friends of Ken, who knew and know him as we did. 

I know Ken from early days in Edmonton and Red Deer. Difficult to speak in past tense. We know one another from 80’s days at Le Chateau, and continued on in our close friendship for decades until he moved from Edmonton when we lost touch a bit. But Ken’s spirit, whit and view of the world and people in it always resonated. 
I’m so sick and sad to hear about his leaving this earth too early. 
Mutual pal Corey Anderson and I shared lovely memories of Ken recently, when I learned about His passing from her. 

If there are any memorials planned for Edmonton or area I would be honoured to attend as I  was informed after the fact.

Love and miss you Kinney!

Trevor Furmanek
250.485.8800



I was very sorry to learn of Ken McRobbie's death. He was a talented designer and an energetic entrepreneur.  His gift for interior decoration and design was an asset in the city of Halifax. As a client, I appreciated his historical sensibility. Wandering through the shop yesterday, I thought to myself, this is Ken's greatest tribute. It's a grand emporium.

To Colin and Ken's family, I convey my heartfelt condolences.

Sincerely,

Edward M. Langille

Ethan, Colin  and all the McRobbie Family, 
The loss of Ken is great.  He was such a kind, creative and gentle man.   His love of family, and especially his pride in you, Ethan, was immense.   His connection, both personally and professionally, to you, Colin, was the stuff of dreams.   He is gone far too soon and will be missed in so many ways by so many.   Your grief must be immense.   My sincerest condolences.  

Theresa Marie Underhill

I am so very sad to hear this news. Safe journey, lovely Ken.

A wonderful evening in 2019 with Colin and Ken at the Andrew Martin Design Awards in Washington DC I was so glad they flew down to celebrate with me. 

Ken you have left us far too soon. Thank you for your friendliness whenever we crossed paths. I will miss you. Gary. 

My deepest sympathies on this unbelievable loss. I have so many great memories of Ken. His creativity and imagination were beyond compare, and of course a sense of style that was second to none. He had an incredible journey through his life and made an impact on so many people. He will forever be in our hearts.

Ethan, so sorry to hear this sad news. I hope you can find comfort in how much he loved you! Love and prayers to you always! 

Ken's many talents and skills were unparalleled.  He designed the  Making Waves Swim Club logo which, after more than 20 years, is still proudly used.  Making Waves Swim Club is an Edmonton Masters swim club.  I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to know him.  He will be sadly missed.


oh my heart hurt to hear this news - especially for his love, Colin and his son Ethan.

Sending love and strength,

Pilar, Finn and Reuben Chapman 

Dear Colin, we were so shocked and saddened to hear of Ken’s passing. Your husband was a lovely man. Sending comfort and condolences to you at this difficult time.
Ursula MacKinnon and Bill Penney

Just learned the tragic news of Ken’s death. What a loss to our community and province! 
Colin, I am sending big love your way my friend, and will support you in any way possible as you move forward through the dark tunnel of grief. I also offer my condolences to all of Ken’s family and friends.

Nancy 

I was so sad to hear Ken passed. Ken definitely left his mark in Edmonton's design industry and more recently in Halifax. I was very fortunate to work for Ken at McRobbie Design Group. His knowledge of design and creative process was a privilege to observe. He was a mentor, a dreamer and an achiever.  My thoughts are with Colin, Ethan and their families during this emotional time. 


I was very saddened to hear of Ken's passing.  I have spent the past few days strolling down memory lane with Ken in my thoughts.  I have many fond memories of Ken when we were figuring out the world as teenagers and young adults.  From our first apartment in Red Deer (he was one of my first roommates) to post secondary graduations, marriages, and children, Ken was always there.  Even after he moved to Nova Scotia and had his own busy life, he took the time to come and visit me when I was staying in PEI.  

It has been to many years since I last saw Ken but thoughts of him still made me smile from time to time.  But I will see him again someday and our friendship will still endure.

I hope that all your memories of what a remarkable human being Ken was helps you in this time of sorrow.



Colin,
Sending you my deepest sympathies at this time. Thinking of you.


Hi Colin, we are very sorry to hear this news.

Sincerely,  John Demmings & Mike Zinck

Sending our deepest condolences to you, Colin, and family. We were so shocked and saddened to hear about Ken and can only imagine the immense loss you are feeling at this time. You are in our thoughts today. Wishing you healing and strength in the days ahead. 
With love, from the Chapmans

Dear Colin, Ethan and family. We were heart broken to hear of Ken’s passing. A wonderful, kind and talented man who will be dearly missed. Since meeting him soon after his arrival in Halifax, he worked with us over the years to create the peaceful aesthetic of our home. We always enjoyed our Saturday visits to 31 Westgate, where we could catch up with Ken and Colin, to hear about their latest travel adventure, get advice on what British TV series to watch, and to hear Ken speak proudly of his young son, Ethan, growing up. Ken always spoke fondly of his family in Alberta, and we know he will be deeply missed. Please accept our sincere condolences.
Mary MacNeil and Steve Duke, Halifax

I think this was photo was taken in Ken’s apartment in Edmonton where he was able to start exploring his talent as a designer.
I was so impressed with the interior, choice of furniture and art and asked him many questions about why he chose the style and where he sourced things. He adored interiors, and I was so pleased when he met Colin and they could share their passion for art, interiors and design together. They created not only a beautiful home together but also a successful business. I mostly remember laughing with him all the time and will miss his unique and often mischievous sense of humour and his gentle soul.

The photos I am sharing are of Ken in his 20s. Ken was inspiring to so many people throughout his life. He shared ideas and collaborated with people on projects that were important to them, he was so kind. During our University years I asked him to model for me on several occasions. He was brilliant in front of and behind the camera. He was inspired by the aesthetic of the early to mid 20th century. Thank you Ken for being my inspiration.

I’m so sorry and offer my condolences to Colin,Ethan and Ken’s family for your loss.
Ken was such a beautiful and kind person. 

To Ethan, Colin and family,
I was saddened to hear of Ken’s recent passing.  My thoughts are with you all during these difficult times.  Ken had such a kind soul. 

Andrea Fader 

Dear Colin,
I am so sorry to hear of Ken’s passing away. You and Ken have been a large part of the design community here in Halifax.  Together as a team you worked to achieve beauty and excellence all around you. Ken will be greatly missed by your side.  It is at times like these that the Lord is closest to those who mourn.  The Lord is close to the broken hearted and sees what has happened and has compassion.  Colin, you are in our prayers and thoughts at this time.
Annemarie 

Sad news. I last saw Kenneth in the 1980s when he was visiting Aberdeen. Sidney Sandison and I took him out twice to our local for a drink, unfortunately fights broke out on both occasions, not involving us I hasten to add. This did not put him off Scotland however and I know he returned several times. 
Condolences to his family and friends.

This loss has touched many across Canada and the world.  We knew Ken through the kindness and encouragement he gave our daughter.  He crossed our own paths only twice but his generosity, intelligence, compassion and humanity showed through on both occasions.  He made us laugh, he made us feel welcome and he left an impression.   Emerson reminds us that "...to appreciate beauty and find the best in others...to know one life has breathed easier because you have lived.  This is to have succeeded."  For his humanity alone, Ken has succeeded.  May he find the peace owed to the virtuous and the good.

Sweet Ken,  a kindred soul, like a brother you were to me.  Always so full of generosity and always so  very kind.  Ken your smile will always hold a place in my heart.  So many great memories we share.  Your talents so great, they have created so much beauty in my home and so many homes in this region. My love goes out to Colin and family and all Ken’s family who feel the passing of Ken greatly, my love is with you. Together may we hold our love for Ken and our tender hearts.  Love always and forever, Nicola 

Our thoughts are with you Colin, Ethan and all those feeling a deep sense of loss over Ken's passing.   We can't imagine what you are going through and hope that your healing starts and progresses in the way that it needs to.  

Roger and Ger

When I first moved to Edmonton in 1990, I knew no one in the city. Ken and I met randomly through work and our friendship was immediate. Thanks entirely to him, I was introduced to a community of like-minded people, all of whom remain friends to this day.

Ken’s artistic skill and professionalism, his quick wit and clever humour, his generous nature and most importantly, his lifelong friendship, will aways be remembered.

Colin, when Ken met you he became a different man. I had never seen him in love before, but he was: head over heels, completely, absolutely in love. Your deep connection was obvious to everyone who knew you. I was so happy for you both then, and I am so sorry for your loss now. My heart is breaking for you, for Ethan and the McRobbie and Blanchard families.

Prayers and love always,
Jan Thalheimer

I am very sorry to hear of Ken's passing. A very kind person that I knew for only for a short period of time. My prayers go out to Colin and family. 

Dear Colin,

Deborah and I are very very saddened to learn of your loss; please know that our thoughts are with you.  

Sincerely,

Don and Deborah Langille

Colin,
I am so very sorry for your loss,

Sincerely,
John Ingram

Colin,
We were so saddened to hear of Kenneth’s passing.  May the memories bring you warmth and comfort.  Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

We are sorry to hear of Ken’s death. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the family. We have warm memories of our time together in Edmonton. Wilson & Lillian Tibbo

To my Nephew Ethan who has lost a father my heart and love go out to you. To Colin and family of Ken my heartfelt condolences to you all. Most of my fond memories are from the Edmonton days. God Bless. 

We have such fond memories of spending time with Kenneth.  From the first time we met during a fateful visit to 31 Westgate on Agricola Street, we felt a connection that evolved into a close friendship rooted in shared interests, including history, architecture, travel, good food, good conversation and the occasional cocktail.  We always looked forward to our get togethers with Kenneth and Colin, coming away feeling we had learnt something in the presence of a devoted couple. Our century old home received the Westgate touch and was transformed over the course of many projects, so we will always be surrounded by Kenneth’s spirit and design touch. Kenneth was a master artist and we trusted all of his advice implicitly. Once when we were fussing about a flaw in a wooden range hood that someone built for us, Kenneth offered his perspective — “there is beauty in imperfection”.  That not only resolved our concerns but also gave a new appreciation for things that look slightly off perfect. Our last project was converting a shed into what Ken renamed the Summerhouse -- the McRobbie Summerhouse to us.  We were so fortunate to have Kenneth in our lives and will miss him terribly.  A true gentleman, with a strong work ethic and a wicked dry sense of humour, who valued family and friends.  Our hearts go out to Colin, Ethan and Kenneth’s extended McRobbie and Blanchard families.

I am shocked and so saddened to hear the news of Ken’s passing.  I have known Ken for 30 years and was one of his first clients at McRobbie Design years ago that led to years of friendship.   His creativity has always been fresh and groundbreaking and was such a inspiration in those early days.  I will always cherish those memories and I know he will be sorely missed.  My heartfelt thoughts and prayers to Colin, Ethan and the rest of his family.   

Dear Colin, Ethan and families,

We are so very sorry for your loss.  We hope, that in time, the wonderful memories you created together will give you comfort.  We offer our sincere condolences and sympathies at this very difficult time.  May the love and care of family and close friends give you strength.

Kim, Owen Connolly

C’est avec une immense tristesse que nous avons appris le décès de Kenneth. Nous garderons en mémoire votre séjour avec nous à Avignon. Toutes nos sincères condoléances à Colin et à sa famille. 
Benoît et Jacques 

Ken always surrounded himself with interesting and talented people. Working with him at McRobbie, he taught me so much about design, running a business, and being open to new adventures. While he was missed in Edmonton, I am so glad he built a new life in Halifax. You will be missed, Ken. Sending love to his family & friends. 

Very saddened to hear this. Our deepest sympathies at this time. 

Dearest Ken,
Ever Calm, Ever Present.
That’s how I’ll remember you.

Dearest Colin,
Much Love and Sympathy,
We send to you.

Mechelle and Dave xo

Ken was known by many thanks to his gifted vision for design. His natural ability to see beyond an existing structure was matched by very few. More importantly, Ken was known to his family and friends as a genuinely kind and caring soul. Fond memories were made with Ken and Colin (and a few G&Ts) in the early years of their Halifax business. He was a lovely man and he will be missed by all who crossed his path. Deepest condolences to Colin, Ethan and extended family. 

My heart goes out to all of you. We will all miss him deeply
Aunt Marg Linklater 

A process, time, and collaboration.... which turns ideas into reality.  The reality is a dream, fulfilled. 

In 2021, Ken and Colin helped us achieve our dream of turning a house into a home.  To them, we will be forever grateful.  Already, so many memories and good times have filled this home.  To us, this has been priceless.  Ken and Colin's love of what they shared to create in their own life together, their creativity and flair, was their gift to us. They treated us like friends.  Ken was a master of design, an expert on art and a true artisan craftsman.  We will dearly miss Ken, and to Colin: all our love and peace. 

Colin and Ethan, 
My heart is broken for you. 
Allow the love around you, help as you struggle through your profound loss and grief.

Ethan and Colin I am so saddened and shocked to hear of the passing of Ken. My sincere and deepest condolences go out to you both. 
Ken a fellow Albertan, always made me feel we had a special kinship. 

He was a very talented designer and visionary with an acute business acumen. He was always very supportive and encouraging of my design endeavors and welcoming to events you graciously hosted. 

His absence will be felt in the Nova Scotia community his presence and gifts will be sadly missed. A true community builder with class and fine style.

My heart go out to all who loved Ken

Laura Fisher

Dear Colin, Ethan and Family. My heart aches for you all. Ken’s genius, warmth and wit will be so greatly missed. Please know you are in my thoughts. 

Colin, we loved Ken. We love you. We are here for you anytime. Wishing you peace & healing & loving support from everyone around you now.

Bobbi French & Neil McCulloch.

I met Ken about 25 years ago when we were both in different phases of our lives personally and professionally.  He graciously hosted me around Edmonton as I was contemplating moving there with my then partner.  He took time out of his day to show me the design industry in Edmonton.  I remember his wit and design eye.  My condolences to his family.  

Dear Colin, Ethan and families,

Ken and I are deeply saddened to hear of Ken’s passing. He was a dear, sweet, brilliant and humble man.  I hope your memories together will be a comfort to you all. 

Sincerely,
Ken and Pam MacDonald



My sincerest condolences. I had the privilege to work with Ken at McRobbie. He was very talented and kind. I’m so very sorry for your loss.

We are so very sad for your loss, Colin and Ethan… Ken is an amazing soul, extremely talented and passionate and kind. We are sending you our love and prayers and hugs. Love, Tammy, Aerin and Emma (Mercier) Hackett

Dear Colin, words can not express how I feel. I only have tears. My heart aches for you, Ethan,  and for all those who loved Ken. Sending you much love and prayers. Claudette and Jack

Our condolences go out to Colin and Ethan. Ken was a kind and talented man who will be greatly missed.

Dear Colin and Family,
Our most sincere and deepest condolences on your tremendous loss. 
With love,
Kyle and Dean, PEI

My deepest sympathies to Colin, Ethan and the entire family. Ken’s warmth and peaceful demeanour was palpable anytime you were near him. May his memories and legacy live on in our hearts for eternity. 

To Colin, Ethan and all of Ken's family and friends, I am so sorry for your loss.  Ken was a very special person and I will miss him terribly. My thoughts are with all of you.
Love Jeanne

Dear Colin:

Our hearts go out to you, Ethan and all of Kenneth's family during this very sad time. We are so very sorry for your loss of Kenneth.

Janet Robertson and Stephen Aftanas

We are so very sorry for your loss.  We have you in our thoughts and prayers...  peace and blessings.....

- Barry and Omar

Colin,Ethan and all of Ken’ s family….. We are so sorry for your loss. Hopefully your memories of Ken will help to ease your sorrow.
Sincerely 
Vic and Lee Langille 

Sad news indeed. Happy to have crossed paths with both Ken and Colin in this life.
He was an inspiration and a role model.
My son Satchel learned much from his association with you both.
Condolences to you, Colin, and family.

Jane Wentzell (Satchel’s Mom)

OBITUARY

Kenneth Edward McRobbie

July 19, 1963 – March 5, 2023

JA Snow Funeral Home

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