ROBERT GEORGE JOHN PAXTON
May 23, 1940 – August 24, 2024
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Robert George John Paxton. Born in Toronto on May 23, 1940, Robert, known to many as Rob, passed away peacefully with his family at his side on Saturday, August 24, 2024. Rob lived a full life for 84 years. Rob is survived by his beloved wife, Ursula Paxton, his daughters, Laura (John) Watson and Heather (Rob) Kardas, and his cherished grandchildren, Kaleigh, John Jr., Fayth and Mackenzie. He is predeceased by his parents, Robert and Eunice Paxton, and sisters, Mary Whitson and Doreen Childs. Rob Paxton lived a life that was nothing short of a masterpiece. Rob was a man of many talents, and whether he was teaching in the classroom, crafting a fine piece of art, or perfecting his signature (which was also a work of art), he never did anything halfway. A lifelong learner, Rob earned his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Windsor and a Master of Education from the University of Toronto. His career in education took him from Scarborough to Wallaceburg and Chatham, Ontario, where he didn’t just teach—he launched an art department at W.T. Laing Public School, inspiring generations of students to see the world through a more creative lens. His journey continued through various schools, including AA Wright, King George VI, and John N Given, where he was a teacher and vice-principal. Rob had a knack for making learning fun and challenging his students in ways that left an indelible mark on their lives. Beyond the classroom, Rob’s talents knew no bounds. He was an accomplished artist, woodworker, leathersmith, gunsmith, photographer, mechanic, fisherman, hunter, gardener and baker. You name it, Rob mastered it. His creations can be found in homes, businesses and churches across Ontario and Alberta. A true master craftsman, Rob approached every task with the precision of an artist and the heart of a humble, caring man. Rob was also a generous soul, giving his time to countless causes. He was awarded for his decades of blood donations and for teaching firearms and hunter safety classes. His involvement in the Masonic Order, Eastern Star, York Rite, Scottish Rite, and Shriners reflected his deep commitment to his community and his faith. A faithful servant of God, Rob was active in his church, often stepping up as a lay reader and delivering sermons that were as thoughtful as they were inspiring. A Celebration of Rob’s extraordinary Life was held at Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Little Current, Ontario on Sunday, September 8, 2024. A receiving reception began at 2 pm, the celebration started at 3 pm. Refreshments followed and we welcomed all who knew and loved Rob to join us. Our family would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the compassionate doctors and nurses at Manitoulin Health Centre. The palliative care room allowed us to share stories and precious moments with Rob in his final days. Donations in Rob’s name can be made to the Manitoulin Health Centre or the Shriner’s Hospital in Montreal. Manitoulin Health Centre: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/9790 Shriners Hospital: https://donate.lovetotherescue.org/ . As we say goodbye, we take comfort in knowing that Rob is now at peace with God, wrapped in the embrace of His amazing grace, and watching over us with the same love and care he gave throughout his life. Rest easy, Rob—you’ve more than earned it. Cremation services provided by Simple Wishes of the North, Sudbury.
