Robert M. Aldis

ALDIS, Robert McColl

Sunset for Bob. Bob arrived to Win and John Aldis in London, Ontario on December 10, 1922. Father of Hugh (Sue Beckwith), Ann (Howard Chertkow), and Joan (Allen Pratt, d. 2013). Grandad to Margot, James, and Colin Aldis; Laura (Ariel Shafro), Elizabeth (Steve Rosen), and Martha Chertkow (David Chafe); and Karen Pratt. Great-grandad of Noah and Avery. Predeceased by precious partner Mary (nee Price), and brothers John and Barclay.

Veteran, public health physician, MD (University of Western Ontario), Public Health (University of Toronto), Royal Canadian Army Medical Corp. Past president of the Ontario Public Health Association.

Bob was recently honoured as the last surviving member of the Medicine Class of 1945. After his training, Bob served as Medical Officer of Health for Huron, Perth, and then Wellington-Dufferin Counties. He was a pioneer in public health and preventative medicine, serving communities with care and compassion over many years. The lives and health of thousands of residents of south-western Ontario were enriched by the dedication of ‘Doc Aldis.’

Bob and Mary met as doctor and nurse at Toronto Western Hospital in 1945 – it was a love at first sight and one that endured for 67 years. Together they enjoyed raising their family, friends, a love of music, and Sunset Beach.

Bob was a gentle soul, kind, and a true egalitarian. He was a lifelong scholar who preserved a keen interest in history, politics, and the natural world. His memory and intellectual curiosity were unparalleled.  Bob enjoyed walking on the shores of Lake Huron, often accompanied by a faithful dog. His last years were at Arbour Trails in Guelph, where he had many friends and greatly appreciated the kindness of staff.  He will be deeply missed. “Justi ut sidera fulgent”

Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com. Donations may be made in his name to the Nature Conservancy of Canada.

 A tree will be planted in memory of Robert M. Aldis in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.