Dr. Robert Harold Sheppard

Surrounded by his loving family, Bob Sheppard died peacefully at home in Cobourg on October 2nd after a brief illness.   An inspiration to us all, he will be deeply missed by Norah – the love of his life and wife of 66 years - his six daughters and their partners – Jan and Stan, Wendy and Tony, Dale and Doug, Colleen and Derek, Robyn and Frank, Dawn and Kevin, his adoring grandchildren and their partners, dear great grandchildren, and by his many friends. Bob studied medicine at the University of Toronto and completed further studies at Harvard, breaking new ground by becoming one of the first endocrinologists in Canada. A gifted and compassionate physician, deeply admired by patients and colleagues alike, he worked for many years at Toronto Western Hospital and Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. Bob was also dedicated to medical education as Associate Dean, Postgraduate Medicine, and Director/Founder of the Office of International Relations at U of T.  He was a mentor to generations of young health professionals. After retirement, his hope for and commitment to a better world found expression through his tremendous contribution of time, effort and talent to Horizons of Friendship, Amnesty International and the outreach committee at Trinity United Church. A natural and trusted leader, Bob was frequently called upon to take the helm of organizations and groups – a role he assumed with grace, generosity and thoughtfulness. He loved life – a life full of wonderful relationships, meaningful work, innumerable projects, travel and adventure.  He and Norah explored the world together but also built and cherished a beautiful wilderness cottage on Aylen Lake where family gather every summer. The family would like to extend warm thanks for the exceptional care provided by the staff and Saint Elizabeth health care providers at Central East CCAC.  Special thanks to Nurse practitioner, Kianda Mauch, PSW, Dawn Hoadley, and Dr. Emma Smith. Friends are welcome to drop by 521 Lakeshore Road, Cobourg on Friday, October 7th anytime between 1:00 and 3:00 pm. Condolences received at www.MacCoubrey.com.