Robert McDonald Adams

Dr. Robert McDonald Adams, of Sidney, BC, passed away peacefully at the Saanich Peninsula Hospital in his 81st year. Born and raised in London, Ontario, Robert was predeceased by parents Leon Adams and Mildred (nee Waldock). He is deeply missed by his loving partner Susan Lui, son Christopher and daughter Laura, his sister Joan, brothers Dr. Kenneth Adams (Isabel) and Dr. Paul Adams (Velma), and numerous nieces and nephews. He is survived by his ex-spouses Gerda (Strauch), Victoria (Midence).

Robert received his Honors B.A. in Economics and Political Science from the University of Western Ontario in 1951 and an M.A. in Economics from Queens University in 1953. He was the recipient of The Hudson’s Bay Company Scholarship in Economics and Business and the Canadian Social Science Research Council Fellowship for study at the London School of Economics and the University of Chicago, respectively. While completing his doctorate in Labour Economics, he procured a position as Economist and Industrial Relations Specialist with Canadian Industries Limited in Montreal. In 1958, he relocated to Ottawa where he embarked upon a distinguished career with the Public Service of Canada. He served his country in many capacities including the Department of Labour, the Canadian Embassy in Brussels and the Treasury Board in Ottawa. From 1969 to 1973, he served as the Assistant Deputy Minister of Manpower and Immigration where he directed the Canadian Government’s Immigration Program. He was appointed as the Consul General of Canada in San Francisco from 1973 to 1977. This was followed by seven years at McGill University in Montreal as an Associate Professor of Industrial Relations and Director of the Industrial Relations Centre. During his time at McGill, he advised foreign corporations on applications to the Canadian Government’s Foreign Investment Review Agency and was a consultant with the Bank of Montreal’s Public Affairs Department.

In 1989, Robert retired to Sidney by the Sea, located on the Saanich Peninsula. His love for the area was unquestionable as evidenced by his long, daily walks and the many beautiful photographs he collected and shared. His passion for classical music led to serving on the Board of Governors for the Victoria Conservatory of Music. He also spent numerous hours speaking at Rotary clubs in several provinces. His family and many friends will miss his intelligence, wisdom and his sense of duty.

The family wishes to thank the staff at the Saanich Peninsula Hospital for their efforts and kindness. A special thanks to Dr. Terry Hartrick for his ongoing care and compassion. Flowers are gratefully declined. If desired, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation at 107, 1001 Cloverdale Avenue, Victoria, BC V8X 4C9 and the Canadian Diabetes Association at 276, 2950 Douglas Street, Victoria, BC V8T 4N4.

A celebration of life for Robert’s family and friends will be held at 1:00 pm on Tuesday, May 5 at Sequoia Gardens Memorial, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC with a reception to follow.

If ever two were one, surely we.