It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Martin Robin “Rob” Quinn, peacefully at home in Ottawa on May 7, 2025, at the age of 85. Beloved husband of Denise Ellen Quinn (née Tunney), in the 60th year of their marriage. Loving father of Katherine Audrey Quinn and Christopher Joseph Quinn.
The youngest of four siblings, Rob was predeceased by his sister Nora Kay Wykes (née Quinn) and brother Gordon Quinn. He is survived by his brother Peter Edward Quinn. Rob will also be missed by many nieces, nephews, friends and extended family.
Born in Toronto, Ontario to his parents Eugene J. Quinn and Nora V. Quinn (née McDonough), on January 19, 1940, Rob enjoyed an early, brief career in the military. It was during this time that he met his wife, Denise. In June 1966 he joined the Canadian Department of External Affairs, where he met many people who became lifelong friends. Rob had a varied career which included Public Service of Canada in multiple departments, Director of Government and Public Relations for the Canadian Broadcasters Association, Alderman of the Capital Ward in Ottawa, President and CEO of the Industrial Biotechnology Association of Canada, and retiring as a Consultant in 2003.
Rob had a strong sense of humour and a passion for military and political history. He was a lover of good wine, good food, and good company of friends and family.
Family and friends are invited to Beechwood Cemetery (280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario), on Friday, May 23, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. for an Interment with military honours at the National Military Cemetery, located within Beechwood Cemetery.
The family will welcome friends and family at Rob & Denise’s home after the service at 2:00 p.m.. For those unable to attend in person, who would like to join us in raising a toast to Rob, please send a note to RobQuinnMemorial@gmail.com and we will include you in an invitation to join us on a Zoom call at 3:00 p.m. EDT when we will raise a glass of Irish whisky (or the tipple of your choice) in Rob’s memory. The family would love to receive messages with your memories of Rob at the same email address, RobQuinnMemorial@gmail.com where we will put them together into a scrapbook for Denise and their children.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Rob’s memory may be made to the Canadian Legacy Project or a charity of your choice.
I want to offer the family my sincere condolences. I just found out about his passing..I know Chris, his son, through varied MeetUp events over the years. May the entire family remember the cherished memories as you find solace in the coming months and years to come!