Obituary of Robert John Buckle

Buckle, Robert John

June 11, 1952 – February 7, 2026

It is with great sadness that the family of the late Robert John Buckle announce his passing on February 7, 2026, at the Grey Nuns Community Hospital in Edmonton, Alberta, at the age of 73. He passed away surrounded by family and loved ones.

Leaving to mourn with fond and loving memories are his three children: Shane (Christine), Shannon (Alana), and Eryn (Jon); and his cherished grandchildren: Tate, Beckett, and Breah Buckle. He is also lovingly remembered by his sisters, Sheila MacNeil (Brian) and Regina Staples (Gerry), as well as his nieces and nephews: Brian Buckle, Janet Lynn, Brian Jr., Mark and Michael MacNeil, Cheron, Cassandra, and Melissa Buckle, and Michael and Danny Staples, along with a large circle of extended family and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, Mary and Edward Buckle, and his brothers, Francis, Paul and Albert.

Robert began his career as a Katimavik coordinator, where he developed a lifelong commitment to community engagement. He later worked with the Government of Newfoundland in tourism and culture and taught at the College of the North Atlantic in Carbonear. Guided by his passion for history, environment, and community, he played a key role in the preservation of numerous historic sites in Newfoundland, including work on the Trinity Restoration Project, which restored over 50 buildings, as well as projects such as Point Amour Lighthouse, Ryan Premises, Boyd’s Cove Beothuk Interpretation Centre, Barbour House, and Grenfell House.

He went on to found Heritage Collaborative Inc. As Robert Buckle, BA, MEDes (Planning), MBA, RPP, MCIP, he supported cultural and environmental initiatives across Canada and was widely respected for his vision and dedication. He was proud to work alongside his daughter, Eryn Buckle, B.A., B.Ed.

He was committed to lifelong learning, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from St. Francis Xavier University, a Master of Environmental Design in Planning from the University of Calgary, and a Master of Business Administration from the Henley School of Business at the University of Reading.

A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, July 7, at the Royal Canadian Legion Corner Brook, Branch 13. Doors open at 6 p.m., with the service beginning at 6:30 p.m. Guests are invited to share stories and memories.

As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of your choice.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his kindness, wisdom, and the love he shared with all who knew him.