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Robin (Rob) Lee Gifford, of Sarnia, Ontario, passed away peacefully on July 9th, surrounded by his loved ones, after a courageous battle with cancer. Raised in Petrolia, Rob attended Lambton College after high school at L.C.C.V.I.. Soon afterwards, he headed out West with his brother Jay and his good friend Lloyd to work on the pipelines. His work there was a testament to his character – the work was tough, physical, and helped hone his technical skills. However, his most treasured career was his more than 30 year tenure as a fire fighter with the Sarnia Fire Department. Rob fought at every stage of his life and rarely ever let immense challenges stop him. Despite facing significant health challenges, Rob always rose to the occasion. His grit and determination included earning a spot back on the “trucks” as an active fire fighter while battling a debilitating autoimmune disease. Rob finished his career as an Inspector with the Fire Department and retired in 2017. Rob is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Gifford, and loving daughter, Kaela Gifford, and his step children Jacklyn (Morgan), Johnathan (Carly), Johanna (Mei). Rob is also survived by his four siblings Martin (Marilyn), Jay, Cindy, Kelli (Larry), nieces and nephews Tim (Casey), Tiffany (Matt), Kyle (Clara), and Kirk. He was a loving grandfather to six grandchildren (Betty, Ella, Maggie, Noah, Jack, and Nila). Rob was loved by his brothers- and sisters-in-law Cindy (Roger), Vicky (Steve), Marty (Jimmy), and Laura. Rob is preceded by his father (Earl) and mother (Shirley). Rob will always be remembered for his sense of humour, his love of family, and his ability to overcome hardships and focus on the positives in life. A celebration of life will be held at the Smith Family Centre (in front of Smith Funeral Home), 1576 London Line, Sarnia, on Sunday, July 13th, 2025 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Palliative Care Unit at Bluewater Health (cheques only at the funeral home please). Arrangements entrusted to Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia.
