James Hanlon Robertson

James Hanlon Robertson, also known by many as 'Jim' or 'Robbie', passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones, in his 81st year at Welland General Hospital on April 23, 2014. Born in St. Catharines, Jim is predeceased by, and now eternally reunited with his wife Shirley, parents Andrew and Elizabeth Robertson, brothers Andrew and Robert and sister Betty. He is survived by sons Barry Robertson (Robin), Rick Robertson (Donna) and daughter Kelly Robson (Patrick), by sisters Mary, Peggy and Jean, brother Richard, and sister in law Marilyn Savage (Jim), by grandchildren Melissa Austin (Don), Jamie Robertson (Kristen), Courtney Robertson (Brian), and Shelbi (Kevin) and Quinn Robson, and by great-grandchildren Samantha & Josh and Brady & Gavin.

Robbie retired from The St. Lawrence Seaway after many years of service. He was a celebrated athlete, including being a member of the 1953 Memorial Cup winning Barrie Flyers, a player in the American Hockey League, an inductee into the St. Catharines Sports Hall of Fame, player-coach for the Ontario Senior A Champion Port Colborne Sailors, and, as a coach for several Golden Horseshoe Jr B teams in Niagara. Robbie left an indelible mark as a true gentleman and mentor to the many people whose lives he touched. A special thanks goes to the many dedicated and compassionate staff of the sixth floor and the ICU at the Welland General Hospital site.

Jim is resting at Hulse and English Funeral Home, 75 Church Street, St. Catharines (905-684-6346). Visitation is set for Monday, April 28, 2014 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. with a service to celebrate James' life scheduled for Tuesday, April 29, 2014 at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, family and friends are invited to make a donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Online tributes may be made at www.hulseandenglish.com.