NameROBERT STEWART CROSBIE
, 5.3.2
BirthSeptember 17, 1957
DeathApril 18, 2025, St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
EducationCM, LL.D, ICD.D
Notes for ROBERT STEWART CROSBIE
Obituary - Courtesy of Carnell’s Funeral Home website.
It is with broken hearts that we, the family of Robert S. (Rob) Crosbie, CM, LL.D, ICD.D, announce his passing on April 18, 2025, at the age of 67.
Rob was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend who left us far too soon. He leaves to mourn his devoted wife and life partner of over 50 years, Liz (née Torraville); son Andrew; siblings Alex (Bev), Tim (Sherrie), and Cynthia (John); sisters-in-law Kay (Jim) Butler and Susan (Charles) Kemp; brother-in-law Dave (Louise † 2024) Chafe; many nieces and nephews; and a wide circle of extended family, very special friends, and colleagues whose lives were all enriched by his presence. He is predeceased by his parents, Andrew C. Crosbie and Joan Parker (née Parsons), as well as many beloved furry friends.
Rob’s passion for people and community extended far beyond his home. It introduced him to people all over the world. He had a deep love for time spent on the river, snowmobiling in the mountains, golfing with friends and business colleagues, playing water polo internationally, and judging dog shows. As Chair of Crosbie, he carried forward a proud family legacy with integrity, compassion, and vision. He led with quiet strength and a deep sense of responsibility—not only to the company, but to the province he loved so dearly.
Rob’s impact was felt across Newfoundland and Labrador and beyond. His contributions to business and public life were recognized with some of the country’s highest honours. He was appointed to the Order of Canada (2018), received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Memorial University (2018), was inducted into the Newfoundland and Labrador Business Hall of Fame (2016), and received Ernst & Young’s Atlantic Canada Entrepreneur of the Year Award (2016), Memorial University’s J.D. Eaton Tribute Award (2014), and the Faculty of Business Administration Alumnus of the Year Award (2003).
Rob’s warmth, wisdom, and generous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege to know him. He believed in doing what was right, building for the future, and showing up for people in meaningful ways. Whether in the boardroom or at the family dinner table, he led with love and a deep sense of purpose.
The family would like to express heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff at the Health Sciences Centre and Kidney Care Centre for their care, compassion, and kindness. We also extend our deepest gratitude to the entire Crosbie Group of Companies for the outpouring of love and support. Crosbie is a family—and one Rob was proud to lead.
Visitation will take place at Carnell’s Funeral Home on Freshwater Road on Tuesday, April 22, and Wednesday, April 23, from 2:00–4:00 pm and 6:00–8:00 pm.
The funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 24, at St. Thomas’ Anglican Church at 11:00 am.
All are invited to join the family at a reception following the private burial on Thursday, April 24 from 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM at the Blue Whale Atrium, Core Science Building, Memorial University. Please use Entrance #3 for easiest access to the Reception. Complimentary parking is available on Levels 1 and 2 of the garage at the corner of Arctic Avenue and Sand Pits Road. Light refreshments will be provided. All are welcome to join in remembering Rob and celebrating his life.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rob’s memory to the Kidney Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society, Young Adult Cancer Canada, Nature Conservancy of Canada, or the charity of one’s choice.
He will be forever missed—and always remembered for the love he gave, the values he lived by, and the legacy he leaves behind.