Arthur "Art" C. Robar

Arthur Robar died early on the morning of September 22, 2023 in Woodstock, Ontario.  He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Helene (Savary) Robar in 2018.  He is survived by his three daughters, Debra and Stephen Tait, Valerie and Ted Sparks, Julia and David Wareham.  His grandchildren are Amber and Geoffrey Spence, Dennis Tait, Monica Tait, Brittany Sparks and Aaron Gonsenhauser, Maleah Sparks and Daniel Zigler.  He has five great grandchildren Ewan, Rory, Maxwell, Zoey and Levi.  He is also survived by many nieces and nephews from the Robar and Savary families.

Art was predeceased by his parents Clyde Deward Robar and Viola Louise McAlpine of Digby County Nova Scotia, and siblings Harold, Eleanor, Dorothy, Flora and Margaret.

Art graduated from McGill University with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education on May 28th, 1951 and married his lifelong sweetheart from Digby the next day in Montreal.  He returned to Shelburne, Nova Scotia to take up his first teaching position, later moving to Port Elgin, Ontario to teach secondary school and start his family.  He then came to settle in Woodstock, Ontario where he taught at Woodstock Collegiate Institute.  He eventually took a position as an adjustment counsellor with the County Board.  In 1978, Art earned his M.Ed degree from UWO.  Art's path then led him into several years as vice principal at Oliver Stephens Senior Public School in Woodstock, retiring in 1986.  Throughout his life he was active in Oxford Baptist Church, Woodstock United  Way, Hospice and the Woodstock Wood Show.  He enjoyed bluegrass festivals, Probus and was always interested in discussing current world events and sports, particularly boxing and hockey.  He was by training an athlete and coach.  His true strength was his ability to form lasting bonds with neighbours and friends.  With his empathetic character and infectious humour, he was proudly supportive of his family.

His visitations will be held at Brock and Visser Funeral Home, 845 Devonshire Ave, Woodstock, Ontario on Tuesday September 26, 2023 from 6-8pm and at 10am Wednesday September 27, prior to the funeral service at 11:00am in the chapel.  Reception to follow.  Donations to United Way Oxford, Cycles of Life or to a charity of your choice.