It is with great sadness that the family of Robert Kenneth Carreau announces his tragic passing on November 2nd, 2020 in Rosseau, ON. He was struck by a car while out for his daily morning run with close friends.

He is survived by his wife Lavinia; their children: Keegan (Carreau-Burns), Angeline, Eve and Miles; his parents Robert and Maureen, his siblings Christina (Aaron Steeghs), Jessica and Matthew (Christine Roy-Carreau).

Robert’s mother, Maureen sends this message in response to the hundreds of condolences the family has received:

“I know we are all heartbroken to lose such a light, such a beacon. We are supporting each other and sharing much love to push through this great sorrow. I believe that to move toward a healing place we must let go of the accident event. There is no value in dwelling on that portion of his story. What does soothe my heart is focusing on Rob’s life and what a wonderful, special person he was.

Rob had a wonderful brain. I asked his son Miles what we were going to do now when we have random questions. Wikipedia is okay but so often it can’t hold up to Rob. With that wonderful brain, he really could have been anything he wanted to be and he chose to be an Educator. How lucky for all of us.

He also had a wonderful heart, brim full of kindness, always looking to uplift others, ensuring all were included. His joie de vivre was perpetually displayed on his face in the form of that beautiful smile – from where he generated an easy and infectious laugh, spoke optimistically and sang with joy and abandon.

He was the quintessential “Renaissance man”. So clever and multi-talented. Equally comfortable having an intellectual discussion or being a cornball vampire; lecturing on the theory of education or running a beer mile; competing fiercely in an ironman or jumping off the dock dressed in his suit; performing for a crowd or walking quietly in the woods with his family. He was inspiring, selfless, unassumingly humble and made each of us want to do better, to be better.

He accomplished so much in his short life. So fortunate to have found the one true love of his life in his beautiful wife Lavinia, such a proud and loving father to Keegan, Angeline, Eve and Miles; so diligent in his thirst for knowledge and his belief in education which led him to his job at Rosseau Lake College where he welcomed the challenges and enjoyed the successes; a strong and respectful supporter of First Nations and the truth and reconciliation program - believing that no one moves forward unless we all move forward together; and he had an innate ability to leave a kind but lasting impression on people he crossed paths with.

I think his parting lesson to us all is to live big, have fun, shine bright, spread love and be the best version of yourself. His other lesson is the two-word mantra he had engraved into his X ring which read “Why wait?”.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Robert on Saturday, November 7th at 11:00 a.m. EST at the Logan Funeral Home (705-746-5855), 81 James Street, Parry Sound P2A 1T7. Due to COVID-19 restrictions a very limited attendance will be permitted and must be by invitation only. Virtual access will be provided for all however, via the following live-streamed YouTube link https://youtu.be/QVmADP2Mh0A which will be activated 1 hour in advance of the ceremony at 10:00 a.m. EST.

Make a donation

Donations can be made to a newly established Education Trust Fund in Robert’s name. PLEASE GO TO: robertcarreau.ca (those wishing to pay by cheque may make them payable Robert Carreau). Recipients of the fund will include Robert’s children.

Condolences

My heart aches for your family and the RLC family. My sincere condolences to all, keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. Remembering all the good that Robert achieved will keep him alive in our hearts forever.

I had the pleasure to meet and work with Robert for a short period. The energy that he brought to the school will never go unnoticed. May he rest in peace. Until we meet again on the other side. Dawn Tabobondung

Our deepest condolences to Lavinia and family and all Rob’s friends. We pray you find comfort in both your own memories and as well in your those of every life he touched..
Hoping all the wonderful memories will fill the void in your hearts.
Be gentle with yourselves at this very sad time.💕💕

Wishing your family and community comfort and strength for the days ahead. The great acts of love are done by those who are habitually performing small acts of kindness... Rob's leadership, goodwill and kindness will live on forever. Un torrent de larmes à apprendre la nouvelle...nous devons faire preuve de solidarité; l'esprit oublie toutes les souffrances quand le chagrin a des compagnons et que l'amitié le console.

Our deepest condolences to Lavina ,children and all Rob’s family and friends.We pray you will find comfort in both your own memories as well as in those of every life he touched.
Hoping all the wonderful memories will help fill this void in your hearts.
Be gentle with yourselves at this very sad time.
Donnie, Agnes,Anne Louise &:Stephen Campbell

Our deepest sympathies and condolences to Bob and Maureen, the girls and of course Robert's
own family.
No words can describe the heartbreak we feel for you all.

Rob and Wendy Coulas

My sincere condolences to Robert’s family and school family. I first met him when he came to Wahta First Nation to introduce himself and we talked for a couple of hours about a shared vision for Indigenous education at RLC. I felt his compassion and knew instantly that he was going to be a great leader for RLC. He spoke of his family with love revealing his dedication and noble character. He will be missed. The loss is great; I hold you in my heart.
Carol Holmes

Our deepest condolences. “To live in hearts we leave behind, is not to die.” (Thomas Campbell)

Rob treated me like family the minute we started working together. Your whole family accepted me and included me. Just know, in his absence, you all have an extended family member in me and my family. I will carry on all of the teachings Rob has shared with me and be here if his family needs me. We are all better for having known him. May we be ever be connected through his memory and may love help you through these trying times.

Rob, through his kindness, dynamism and empathy, is largely responsible for making me the man that I am. We haven’t seen each other in 20 years, but the idea that he was still out there spreading joy brought me great comfort. I’m so sorry for your loss!

I didn't know Robert as well as some but I know he was a caring man. Whether it was in passing on the streets of Rosseau or dropping his son off at work, he would always take the time to chat. Robert always had a smile on his face and a positive attitude whenever I had the pleasure of speaking with him and such an attitude could instantly brighten up your day. Although I didn't know Rob well, I was saddened and shocked to hear of his sudden passing and my thoughts go out to all of his family and friends, the people who knew him best. You all have my most heartfelt condolences during these hard times. Rest in peace Robert...

I had the good fortune of being one of Mr. Carreau's students 20 years ago, and I still remember his warmth and humor, his joie de vivre and essential humanity. To hear that he passed is heartbreaking; Canada has lost a wonderful educator, his community has lost a colorful character, and his friends and family have lost a rare and wonderful soul with a gift for connecting with others. My deepest condolences to his loved ones. I hope that he is remembered through those he inspired, in his teaching and in his everyday life.

The woods are lovely, dark and deep,
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.
- Robert Frost

Robert once quoted this poem in its entirety to my English class and made all the students feel at ease before their own recitations. That's the kind of guy he was/is/always will be.

Our deepest condolences to Lavinia and family. We are thinking of and praying for you.

Our heartfelt sympathy for your tragic loss. Rosemary Evans and the staff and students of University of Toronto Schools.

I worked at RLC for a relatively short time in the kitchen. Robert always smiled and spoke. It was a joy to watch him with the students and teachers. It such a loss of a genuine person. One in a million!!!! RIP Robert you have touched and changed many lives. My heart is with Robert’s family at this very tragic time. Blessings to the family and everyone at RLC.

As a former staff member and parent of RLC alumni it was heart breaking to learn of this tragedy for the RLC community. To Robert's family we truly grieve your loss and please know how many people are here to assist in any way we can. Julie Cameron (former Director of Admission RLC), parent to Blaine Cameron Mackie Alum '11 and Kennedy Cameron RLC student until 2011.

Bob, Maureen, and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time of such great sorrow. God bless you all.
Helena

I am praying for all of you at this difficult time.

From Mexico. Rob. We will miss you. Abrazo solidario a su familia.

Robert left such a positive impact on so many people I’m sure he’s proud. My last conversation with him though it was brief will stay with me always. He had come to visit la p’tit Ecole in Truro and I was over joyed to see him and share the news that my bf and I were expecting our first child. He was beaming with happiness for us. That’s the last time we spoke.
My deepest condolences to the family on the loss of such an amazing man.

My sincere & deepest condolences to Roberts loving family, friends and those who had the pleasure to meet him. Although I didn’t know Robert as well or as long as some, I’m incredibly thankful and fortunate our paths did cross. Roberts vibrant, energetic, and personable nature were immediate from the minute we met, and along with his genuine smile I felt like I had known him for years. It’s hard to comprehend such a tragic loss, and again I’m so very sorry.

The Amherst Striders Running Club offer the Carreau family our deepest and most sincere thoughts, prayers and love during this tragic time. Xo

Sending our blessings to Lavinia, the kids and family, and to your friends who are grieving. Rob’s legacy will stand the test of time and his heart and soul will nourish yours as you as grieve. We hold you and yours tightly and wish you comfort and peace.

While I didn’t know Rob well, meeting him on a few occasions through his wonderful family was enough to feel his unique ability to motivate and uplift. His legacy will live on through his family and those whose lives have been forever changed. Our deepest condolences to his family.

Jo & Stew

We are very saddened to hear of Robert's passing and are sending our love and thoughts to the his family.amd friends. It is clear that Robert touched many people's lives in such a positive way and he will be missed and remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Much love Jordan, MJ, Zoey and Emily.

What a beautifully written obituary. Words cannot express how heartbroken we are for your loss. While we continue to struggle with the reality of Robert's passing and the sequence of events, your words offer comfort and some positive perspective. Sending our deepest and most heartfelt condolences. Rest In peace Robert. Scott, Wendy, Weston & Russell Scarrow

My sincere condolences to Robert's family and the RLC community. I only met Robert once but that one short meeting instilled in me an impression of a man of much kindness and good and light. Such people are truly gifts. The world was a better place for his being here.

Sorry for your loss 😔

Lavinia and family
Brian and I were sorry to hear of Rob’s passing! Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family!

Our deepest condolences to your family Maureen and Bob. Taken from you all far too soon. He looked like he loved his life and family to the fullest. Take care. Sheilagh Malloy

Lavinia, Keegan,Angeline, Miles and Eve,
Our entire hearts are broken for you. Rob in the short time we knew him proved that the most beautiful part of being human is being led from your heart. Your family is blanketed in love from us as we can only imagine the pain you are going through. The world is a better place because of Rob, and also because of you. You share those qualities, you also shine that same bright light. You are held by all of the people touched by this loss. Our deepest condolences. Michelle, Jeff, Trinity, Gabe, Preston and Emmit

We were fortunate to see Rob twice at Nanisivik reunions in the past 12 months. His positive attitude and interest in our lives and wellbeing always made you feel that he was happy to see you and be with you. He was an amazing man and his passing is a huge loss for all who met him. Our hearts go out to his wonderful family, parents and siblings.

Ruth and Bob Borst

Lavinia, Keegan, Angeline, Eve, Miles, Bob, Maureen, Christina, Jessica, Matthew, and the innumerable other family members, friends, and others whose lives Robert touched,

I am so, so sorry. Robert had a knack for making anyone feel welcome and valued. The positivity, energy—life, really—that he brought to RLC was truly awesome, (in the literal sense of the word, not the colloquial one,) and I expect that it was not unique to RLC, but something experienced by all the people and places lucky enough to have been touched by Robert and his legacy. He had an amazing ability to foster unity in a world that seems to be so desperately and increasingly in need of it. May you find some solace in your love, memories, and knowledge that Robert made a profoundly positive impact in this world. Thinking of you all and wishing you strength as you navigate the trails ahead. Much love.

Dear Lavinia, Keegan, Angeline, Eve, Miles, Rob’s parents Maureen and Robert, siblings Christina, Jessica, Matthew and families,
Family here in Cape Breton are holding you all in our hearts, our thoughts and prayers. Rob’s endearing smile, caring spirit of love and winning ways remain a gift we’ve been blessed to share because of Rob’s presence in our family’s lives. Rob’s love for Lavinia was evident from our first meeting! Our hearts ache for her, their children and all family, relatives and friends. May you find comfort in loving memories, and the presence and prayers of all who love you and are united to you now in one way or another.
“Like eagles flying high
Rise up o’er hill and dale
A soul has taken flight
Passing through the heavenly veil,
Called to join the One
Creator of us all
To Rest In Peace forever
Within eternal halls.”
Love, hugs & prayers, Viola & Ivan

Lavinia,we are so saddened by Rob's death.We will pray for you and the children to get through this.You are a very special friend and person.

Condolences to the Carreau family @ this sad time. Friend of the Gough family , Cape Breton NS. 💔

To the Carreau family. Sending deepest condolences on the passing of Robert. Thinking of you during your time of sorrow.

Noel Hedges

It was my great pleasure to teach Rob at Sedbergh some 30 years ago. Reconnecting a few years ago when he became headmaster was just as joyful. He maintained his youthful optimism, passion for learning and exuberance. I'm saddened beyond rational thought at his premature passing. My prayers go out to the whole family. He'll be missed, but will always remain in our hearts.

I did not know Robert but have come to appreciate, over the last few days, the enormously positive impact his words and actions have had on so many.

Robert was a member of the CAIS accreditation team that visited West Island College in 2018 to help it along its improvement journey. Robert's energy, beaming smile, and wit are fondly remembered by those who were on staff.

On behalf of the entire WIC-Montreal community, our deepest condolences to Robert's family, friends, and the RLC community at this sad time.

There are no words to describe the inspiration and joy I received from Rob during the many years we worked side by side at l'École acadienne de Truro. I could use every positive adjective, but it still wouldn't be enough to say how integral he was in the lives of so many in Truro. I send my sincerest sympathy and affection to his family and friends. Keegan, Angeline, Eve et Miles, vous êtes dans mon cœur...bon courage.

Sending our deepest Sympathy.
We met Robert many years ago at The New
Comers Group Truro NS
He definitely would light up any room with his smile.
Doddy & Bobby Keel
Truro NS ( Cape Breton)

Lavinia, Keegan, Angeline, Eve, Miles and Robert/Maureen
Our heart warm condolences to all of you. Rob and Lavina have been almost like our own children during their university years. You should be proud of your dad , son and of course Lavina your loving husband.
He was always full of life so evident to us all snd he saw good in everyone . His infectious smile was a trait that excelled to all of us that knew him. He loved Lavina and his 4 children which was so evident in his everyday life . Antigonish loved both of them as his wife, children and parents did. We will definitely miss him and are thinking of you Lavina during this time as well as your children and Rob’s parents.
Brenda and Bernie

Dear Lavinia,
My deepest sympathies to you and your family - I am so very sorry for your loss. Robert will be so missed within our independent/international school community, and the enthusiasm and warmth that he brought to every interaction. On behalf of my family and our school community here in Ottawa, you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Norman Southward, Head of School
Ashbury College

Rob was my principal at Pond Inlet. He embodied all the positive qualities that one person can have. Everyone loved his great smile and sunny attitude.
Sincere condolences to Lavinia, Keegan, Angeline, Eve, Myles as well as other family members. May all your great memories of Rob keep him in your hearts forever.

Dear Bob, Maureen, Christina and family,
Shannon and I have been shaken by the news of the sudden loss of Rob this week.
Although neither of us have met Rob in person, our personal experience with yourselves showed us the depth and breadth of love and connection that your family shared. We feel your loss so deeply because of the love you all exude for each other and the community at large.
Are thoughts and hopes are with you all. We hold Lavinia, Keegan, Angeline, Eve and Miles in our hearts in this time of sorrow.
With love.

Lavinia, it is with heartfelt sympathy that George and I send a message of love and concern to you, your children, Rob’s family and your family. Rob was truly remarkable in his love for family, friends, community, and colleagues. You will be kept in heart and mind with prayers and wishes that you will get the support to deal with the loss of Rob. May blessings be with you.
Love, Miriam

Truro is a better community thanks to Rob's legacy. His positive energy was contagious. His love of life and family was so refreshing and uplifting. Many a day we waved to Rob, Lavinia and their entire family as they ran through Victoria Park together. Our daughter, Eilish, was fortunate to have been a student at Rob's school and to have benefited from his energy and enthusiasm. She also sends her condolences and commented on the mutual joy Rob shared with family. Our family is devastated by Rob's loss and send our love and respect to Lavinia, Keegan, Angeline, Eve, Miles and to Rob's parents and siblings.

My deepest sympathies to the entire family. I had the pleasure to learn from Rob on the multiple CAIS boarding calls we were on together. Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Our deepest condolences to Miles and his family. We are so sorry for your loss. We will always remember Rob's big smile and warm nature.

Accepting any death is hard, but when magical people leave us, it's devastating. Rob taught our youngest child and acted at Theatre Antigonish with our eldest. The impact he had on them, and so many others, is astounding. He is the teacher and coach who most inspired, affirmed and connected with so many students I know..Rob won their trust and admiration, making classes interesting and often fun. He was so vibrant, likeable, fun-loving, spirited, compassionate, tolerant, bright, multi-talented and ambitious. He genuinely cared about others, and just exuded joy. He was an adventurer, a good listener and a great role model. Rob allowed his head to be shaved at St. Andrew Jr. School to raise money to fight cancer. He built an igloo in front of his apartment. I'm thankful he was among us and hope he knew how outstanding he was. My heart is so broken for all of Rob's family. Sending love.

International Women’s Association of Yerevan, would like to offer sincere and heartfelt condolences to Maureen and her family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May Robert’s soul rest in eternal peace. May his wonderful and loving memories comfort you during this difficult time.
International Women’s Association of Yerevan

Bob, to you and your family, my deepest condolences. I wish your entire family the power to heal and not to forget the tremendous legacy your son left for the world in his children, his students and all those around him who he touched.

Prayers are with the family. Shawanaga First Nation Education Department

Our hearts are weeping for Lavinia, Keegan Angeline, Eve, Miles, Bob and Maureen, and Tina, Jess and Matt and all the other people who have been inspired and touched by Robert. I heard from a co- worker of Robert's in Nanisivik while working as student how Robert worked tirelessly without complaint on really difficult laborious jobs. A friend of mine who taught Robert at St FX was truly impressed with his joie de vivre and can do attitude. And here in Huntsville we were blessed to get to know Robert and Lavinia again at run meets and celebrations. Robert and his family are in our thoughts and we wish peace and comfort that comes from having known such a wonderful loving man, May love from family and friends support you in this time of grief. We will say his name.

Lavinia, Keegan, Angeline, Miles and Eve - Words do not exist to adequately express the depth of my sorrow for the loss of Robert. I can only hope and pray that you can all take some comfort in the incredible impact Robert has had on the lives of so many. I can already feel his spirit guiding all of those who loved him to follow the bright, shining and always thoughtful path that he has laid out for us. My thoughts are with all of you now and always.

My deepest sympathies to the Carreau family and the RLC community. I had the unique pleasure of getting to know Robert just this past year through our weekly CAIS zoom calls working through the COVID challenges in our respective schools. I will remember Robert as the friendly, optimistic, forward-thinker who never hesitated to ask the tough questions. My heart goes out to the family and the hundreds of friends, colleagues and students whose lives have been bettered because Robert was a part of them.

One of the best headmaster I have met. In RLC, he was not only a headmaster, but also a friend, a father. I can still remember my high school memories of getting along with him. I can't express all of my feeling in short sentence, but I want to say I am so sad for the departure of such a good person.
Thank you for everything. Thank you for the fireworks you prepared for us every New Year, you are always bright like the light in my life. R.I.P.

In memory of a Renaissance Man.

May he run now with Angels.

I was shocked and saddened to hear of Robert’s passing. I was fortunate enough to live and work at RLC from 2000 to 2005. I had the pleasure to meet Robert and then to talk to him about Outdoor Education opportunities at the school. I remember thinking, how fortunate that the school has found someone who truly appreciates and embodies the amazing qualities of the school and its location. Condolences to his family. A real loss for the school.

Such a wonderful light! So much energy and caring! I know this will continue in his wife, children, parents, siblings. We send you all strength and courage.

On Behalf of the HTS community, we want to send our love and prayers to both Robert's family and the Rosseau Lake College community as you grieve the loss of an incredible man. Our deepest sympathy to you. May the light that radiated through Robert fill your broken hearts at this time.

Helen
Holy Trinity School

A passionate educator, optimistic leader, and good man, we are grateful for Robert's contributions to the CAIS community. He will be deeply missed.

My wife Andrée and I offer the Carreau family our deepest condolences in this very sad moment.

Lavinia, you are a STRONG, DETERMINED and POWERFUL individual. I know that your kids would have inherited these traits from both you and Rob. He would want you to demonstrate these traits now, during this most difficult time, and for always. The communities of Antigonish and St. F X are mourning with you and your family. We are here for you as always. Strength and prayers to you Lavinia, your beautiful children, the Carreau and Gough Families. RIP Rob.

Love from Terese and Al, Grant, Caralena and Patti-Anne Tracey

I knew Rob only briefly when he was in Truro,NS but could see then what a quality person he was. Sincere condolences from my wife Mary and myself.

Sending my condolences to the family. I was one of Robert’s co-worker at École acadienne de Truro for many years and it was a privilege to be a teacher to some of his children. Robert était un individu exceptionnel et plein de joie et d’énergie. Je pense à vous tous. Repose en paix Robert.

On behalf of the Faculty and Staff in the Faculty of Education at StFX University, we are shocked and saddened by news of Rob’s passing. We were fortunate to have known Rob as a graduate of our BEd, MEd, and PhD programs, and most recently as a part-time faculty member in our MEd program. Many of us have relationships with Rob that span 20 years.

Rob was an amazing soul who made the lives of those around him better. He taught from the heart and became an administrative leader, deeply valued by his students and colleagues. Our deepest sympathy is extended to his family – his wife Lavinia and their four children, as well as his school community at Rosseau Lake.

Sincerely,
Jeff Orr, Dean of Education
Jennifer Mitton, PhD Chair
David Young, MEd Chair
Dan Robinson, BEd Chair

Dear Lavinia, Keegan, Angeline, Eve, Myles, and all of your family members. We were all so devastated to hear this news. Our hearts are with you. We think of you all fondly during your time in Pond Inlet and would love to see you all again one day. Rob was an exceptional person. Much, much love, Tessa and Jay

Dear Lavinia, Maureen, Robert, Keegan,Angeline, Eve & Miles
My deepest sympathy for the loss of an amazing son, partner and father. I had the pleasure of knowing Rob at the beginning of his teaching career when he was in the B Ed at X and then again some 15 later when he completed his PhD. His zest for learning, his own and his students, was amazing. He was a highly creative person and he brought that to his teaching.

He did exude a 'joie de vivre' - Maureen you captured that so beautifully in his obituary and that too was visible to all of us.

And Rob grounded himself and was anchored in his love of his family - they mattered to him so much and he spoke so proudly of you all.

please know those he touched in Xavier Hall at STFX were so saddened by this loss. One of my B Ed students wrote me to say Rob taught her science and was the BEST!
My deepest sympahty. Joanne Tompkins

Bob, Maureen, Lavinia and Family

We were so sad to hear of Robert’s passing. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most sorrowful time. God bless you and comfort you.
Debbie & Rick Chamberot

On behalf of all of us in the tribe we want to let you know that we will always remember Rob as an inspiration and a dedicated runner who helped us all to push ourselves and become better runners. We will miss him. Brian Merrill on behalf of the Truro Run Tribe.

On behalf of the LCC (Lower Canada College - Montreal) community, please accept our deepest condolences on the tragic loss of Robert way too early. I had the privilege of being Robert’s CAIS mentor when he began as Head of RLC. He had lots of technical questions about school leadership, but inherently understood how to lead and connect with people. That’s why he had such an impact so quickly. He was genuine and committed - a man of true character. His impact will be felt by many for a long time to come. Rest In Peace, Robert.

To Lavinia,
My family and I were heartbroken to hear about Roberts tragic passing. Our deepest, heartfelt condolences go out to you, your darling children and Carreau family. I miss you all. Thank you for allowing us to share in his celebration of life, it was beautifully done. The Love I saw you had one another could be felt in our home as we cried with you. I watched you all, stood together, paying such loving tributes to Robert. I am sure it will give you strength and help sustain you all in the days and times ahead.
I still have some difficulty in thinking of RLC in two dimensions. To consider it without Robert is even now inconceivable. Robert was one of the Cleverest and energetic Heads of School I served under. One of the best men I had the good fortune of knowing, for tragically to short a time.
It was my honour and privilege to have known you Husband, Father and Friend.
I am so very Sorry for you loss,
With all my heart,
Bob the Chef

My condolences to the family on the passing of Robert. He was a valuable member of our staff when he worked at St Andrew Junior School. The staff and the students loved his dynamic personality and the energy he brought everyday to his classroom.

Our hearts go out to Robert’s wife, children and family.

Robert was a valued asset to LRNA, a skilled communicator and collaborator. He shared his vision for RLC, regularly updated us on what was happening at the school and pitched ideas that would benefit his students and us. He generously offered the use of RLC facilities, personally checking in to ensure our needs were met. He suggested we integrate children at the summer camp into races so we could borrow the equipment for the Rosseau Regatta - a win for everyone involved. Bringing his characteristic smile and competitive nature, Robert personally participated, plunging in for the distance swim competition to kick off the regatta.

Robert was a true leader, a powerful force for making good things happen. He earned our respect and admiration and will be sorely missed.

Corinne Hagerman
President LRNA

Lavinia, we were shocked and saddened when Amanda let us know that Rob had passed away. We send our heartfels condolences to you, your children,as well as Rob's parents and siblings.
I fondly remember spending time with Rob when we performed together in Theatre Antigonish's production of Brigadoon in 2000. What a great guy.

Thoughts and prayers to the entire Carreau family. I met Rob in 1996 during my first year at Sedbergh. He was my teacher for advanced math. As a new student, I was uncomfortable being away from home. My older brother was there, which was comforting and expected.

What I did not expect was the feeling of belonging that came from a stranger that I had just met. Rob treated me as if we were old friends, and it's because of him that I had something to look forward to each day. Stress from the challenges one faces as an eleven year old new student was greatly reduced thanks to Rob. His bright spirit, funny jokes, kind heart and perfect smile were just a few of the qualities that made it a pleasure to have known him. I regret that I did not express this to him personally, but he was an inspiration to me and he made a huge impact in my life. Thank you Rob. You will be missed.

Lavinia and family. Words can't even begin to express how sorry I am. I pray you all find some strength during this time. Please know I will continue to pray for all of you in the days to come.

Why wait

Bob and Maureen
Stu and I are so very sorry to hear of the loss of your dear son Rob.
Lynn and Stu Sunderland

Dear Lavinia and family
Words alone could never express the sadness I felt when I heard the news of Rob's passing. Although I only met him a few times while you were at Wood Street, his mother's beautiful message along with what your friends have said about him have helped me better understand what an inspiring person he was and how much he will be missed. Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Sean Murphy

To Lavina and family,

I was so saddened to learn of your tragic loss. Please know that your Nova Scotia nursing friends are holding you and all of your family in our thoughts and sending great love and strength to you always.

My heart breaks for Rob’s family after hearing about this tragic news. I met rob during my time at Sedbergh in the mid 90’s and the thing I remember most was his smile. It was infectious. He was someone I looked up to at the time, as did so many young students who were far from home and needed someone to help ground them. I remember him being such a kind soul and would always actually listen to you, not just hear you. It’s obvious he touched many lives during his time with us all. My condolences to his siblings who I knew, his family who I did not and to everyone who was touched by Rob.

Bob, Maureen and family;

I have put off writing this condolence until I could find words to express my sorrow for your loss. I still can not find those words as Rob was such a light to so many. So instead I will share a memory and in that way perhaps shine his light from another angle.
When I think of Rob I remember your wedding, Lavinia and how, at the reception Rob took that microphone in hand and we all knew we were in for a story. He spoke about the first time you met and how you stayed up all night talking. He had that ability to speak directly to you about the intimacy of that time but also to include all of us in it. For those of us who did not know you well, that story brought you into the Carreau family in such a way that I still think of it.
I often imagine his interactions in education would have had that same inclusive feeling. Love and strength to all of you.

Dear Maureen, Bob and families,
Please know how deeply sorry and saddened I was to hear about your son, husband, father, brother, nephew, cousin and friend. All the beautiful tributes, indicates he truly was an icon; hard working, respected and loved in every way. My prayers, thoughts and heart are with all of you...sending gentle hugs. Laurie Brenno (Lacelle)

I was lucky to go to high school with Rob (Sedbergh). I didn’t know him well as we were a few years apart. Rob was one of those people who you knew was special as soon as you met him. What an amazing and much too short life he led! My sincere condolences to the entire Carreau family, my thoughts and prayers are with you.

When I was 12 (almost 20 years ago) I had terrible math anxiety. I was good at math but few people recognized it. Rob Carreau wrote "INCROYABLE" in large letters over a math test I did well on, and it was a huge boost to my confidence. I'm not sure I would be where I am today without his encouragement at that pivotal period of my life.

I had the great fortune to watch Rob launch his professional career in teaching. As a young educator he joined the staff of SAJS and quickly became an important part of the school community. Few knew that he was torn between education and medicine and we were so fortunate that education won that race.

Rob would work long hours preparing for his students and ensuring they found success. He would drop in the office to ask questions or just to see what I thought. He was always willing to challenge if he thought the decision should be given a second or third look.

I watched him grow and was happy for his success as moved into administration and even chaired the NSSAF before heading off to headmaster. No challenge was to large for Rob to take on and concur.

Thoughts and prayers to his entire family. RIP + Mr. Carreau.

To the Carreau Family, but especially running friend Maureen: Heartfelt sympathies upon hearing of this belated tragedy in your family. Knowing Maureen and having been treated by Christina, it would go without saying that Rob is an extraordinary human. To read the beautiful tribute from his Mother reinforces that some individuals were sent to us to prop up our faith in humanity.

"Why wait?" Why indeed? Please know I am sending you white light and sympathy during and extremely difficult time. The words attached to Rob's life have inspired and touched me. Thank you for sharing his spirit.