Robin was a wonderful man, husband and father.  He was also a dear friend.  

Robin was a life enthusiast.  I admired his courage and I admired that he didn’t let self-doubt stop him.  And he was willing to take risks.  And when life threw him a curveball, he was able to face change and forge ahead with flexibility, fortitude, and courage.  As a result, he was able to seize life and live it to the fullest. He built a home with his own hands, was a hang glider, traveler, bicyclist, back packer, gymnast, coach, teacher, spiritual leader, writer, musician, composer, cook, father, husband, and friend. 

At a deeper level, Robin was a people enthusiast.  Robin accepted and valued others exactly as they were in the moment. His empathy and compassion coupled with his command of language made people feel comfortable, in good times and in bad times.

When Robin noticed something that he valued or appreciated, he let people know.  In so doing, he let people know they mattered.  We all want to matter.  So, it was no small thing that he did. 

Robin led with his heart, and if he saw someone in need, he was there to offer support and encouragement. He was genuine and that made being his friend so easy.  No games.  No hidden agenda.  And Robin was a giver, a very generous man, ready and eager to share whatever he could.  He did so many good things for others, for his family, his church, his colleagues, fellow pilots, and even lucky strangers he met along the way. 

Robin once told me he wanted to be remembered as being kind.  Well done, faithful servant.  You were one of the kindest people I have ever known. 

Robin was a great source of support and encouragement to me. His unconditional support over the years meant the world to me. He was always there when I needed him.

Robin was an optimist. Optimism is contagious.  And optimism is a partner to gratitude.  Both make the world a better place.  Robin made the world a better place. 

Robin leaves many legacies.  One I’ll always treasure is The Magic Pan.  In our college years, Robin started a tradition called The Magic Pan.  The tradition was that somone would make something yummy to eat in The Magic Pan.  Then they would phone everyeone in our group and we'd meet at the spur of the moment to enjoy the contents of The Magic Pan.  But the rule was the get together would last 15 minutes and no more.  That way when someone called to announce The Magic Pan was full, we could all oblige right then and there no matter what we were in the middle of, because one can always spare 15 minutes.  And then we'd disperse, back to whatever we'd been doing.  The Magic Pan was in use for years!  Last week I turned 63 and my children, who have had the pleasure of knowing Robin, gave me a ... you guessed it ... brand new Magic Pan.  They decorated the outside with Sharpies in memory of Robin. The legacy lives on.

We miss you Robin!  Thank you for making the world a better place.