Rob Gifford
Died: January 17, 2023 | Place: London Health Sciences Hospital
Obituary
GIFFORD, Robert….
Encircled by those closest to his heart, Robert “Papa Rob” Gifford slipped suddenly away due to cancer-related complications on January 17, 2023 at a vibrant 61 years of age in London Health Sciences Hospital, London Ontario.
Loved enormously and remembered by his life partner, David Long. Endlessly proud father to daughter Kirstin Gifford and husband Lucas Steinman, son Jensen Gifford and wife Cali Travis. Loving papa to his cherished granddaughters, Yael and Aoife Steinman. Brother to Kim Jackson (Richard), Ian Gifford, Joanne Bishop (Brad) and beloved uncle to numerous nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. Preceded by the mother of his children and best friend, Ellen Gifford, and parents John and Barbara Gifford.
Rob’s sparkling energy was a beacon, brightening the days of the innumerable folks lucky enough to receive his iconic smile. He garnered countless friends wherever his journeys took him, at home in his treasured Old East Village neighbourhood, and throughout his professional career in the jewelry industry where he flourished as an adored and successful manager of Charm Diamond Centres.
Rob relished life and its celebrations. He was happiest hosting in the fresh air at his camper, baking sweets, snuggling and spoiling his grandbabies, kayaking between evergreens, and returning to his and David’s favourite spot in Mexico to bask in the sun. And everywhere Rob went, his nonstop dance soundtrack echoed.
We lost Rob devastatingly too soon. His welcoming warmth, quirky wit and the unforgettable sparkle in his eyes illuminated the lives of us who knew him best, whose vibrant memories will keep Rob’s spirit shining brilliantly as diamonds forevermore.
A visitation will be held at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London Ontario on Sunday January 22, 2023 from 12-4pm. As a way of honouring Rob, donations to raise money for a new playground at Lambeth Public School by the Home & School Association, 6820 Duffield Street, London, ON N6P 1A4, would be appreciated. The efforts would be treasured by Rob’s beloved granddaughters for years to come. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com
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David, Jensen and Kirstin, your partner/dad was so funny and never had a filter which I loved about him! He adored Aoife and Yael so much. It is heartbreaking he is gone. Sending my love to you all.
David,
Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time…
May his love live forever under Gods Guidance R I P
David, I’m so sorry to hear this news. I know when you love, it’s with all of your being, so you will be bereft. Please know you are in my heart, and I’m certain, many, many others.
Our deepest condolences on your loss. May he rest in peace.
I had the pleasure and privilege of meeting and working with Rob at the mall. His smile and laughter made any day brighter. He ll be greatly missed . My thoughts and prayers to you all during this difficult time.
David, Kirsty and Jensen, you are part of our family and we will always be here for you and your family. We are grieving with you as we loved Rob so much. Rob has been such a huge part of my life for decades and will be with me forever ??
My sincerest sympathies to your family. Losing a loved one especially a parent/parent is very difficult.
I was/am lucky to live next door to Rob and David for many years. They have both been incredible neighbours. My heart goes out to David and all of the family and friends they have together. This is such a devastating loss. I will remember Rob always for his generous and nurturing spirit. He shared plants, gardening tips, kind words and friendship over the years. He had a way of making people feel special. He adored his grandchildren, family, David and friends. There is no way he will ever be forgotten. For everyone who has known Rob, we are lucky for the time we spent with him.
OMG, David, I am so sorry to read this. Hold strong and know that I am thinking of you. Hugs, Jack
Oh David, I am sorry to hear this. My heart goes out to you at such a difficult time. Ruth
We’re so grateful to Rob for helping raise our friend Jensen. We loved meeting him in Vancouver and appreciated his warmth and humor. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.
I will fondly remember Rob for the charismatic, kind, thoughtful man he was. His pure Joy of Life and genuine heart made him so special! And those smiling eyes that let you know he was really listening and truly cared about what you had to say. On a professional level as my manager at Mappins, I appreciated Robs guidance, support and honesty. I am grateful and blessed to have known Rob for so many years. Rob was DEFINITELY in the right profession as he was truly a one of a kind “GEM”
My sincere condolences to David and all of Robs cherished family??
To: Jensen, Kirstin and your sweet baby girls and David
You have our deepest condolences. We all know the feeling of losing loved ones, nothing can rip a hole in your heart more than this. Our thoughts,love and prayers are with all of you.
We worked with Rob at Mapleview Mall. Best manager ever. Took our store to the top of our sales for the year and great customer service. Many clients that felt more like family than customers. The atmosphere in the store and oozing out of the store was wonderful for all of those involved. We all felt the loyalty to the customers, staff and each other.
We have many funny stories we could share but better in person. He was one in a million as a man, boss and human being. He will be really missed.
All of our love
Mary Lou and Lili
Dear David and all of Rob’s family,
although we cannot be there in person today to wrap our arms around you to offer our support, you are in our thoughts and prayers. It is so difficult when someone we love is taken so quickly.
Our deepest sympathies to you all.
Our deepest condolences. Heaven has gained an angel- Rob will truly be missed as his presence would light up a room. He always made sure to bring his humour and kindness to any situation. Sending love and prayers.
Our deepest condolences. Heaven has gained an angel- Rob will truly be missed as his presence would light up a room. He always made sure to bring his humour and kindness to any situation. Sending love and prayers to Uncle David, Kirstin, Lucas and their beautiful girls, Jensen, Cali and the entire family.
Rob was a great guy. A kind and gentle man who was compassionate, funny and wise. He had a great soul, a quick wit and a loving heart. His passing is a heart-breaking loss, and he will be greatly missed.
Our condolences to the family. We just heard the news today Feb. 11th 2023 while looking for you at your place of business. You were a kind man and a great salesman. We will miss you so very much. Our hearts break for your family. R.I.P. Rob and fly high with the angels.