Skip to content

Robinson celebration of life now at Mellor Hall

Cowichan Exhibition Grounds site picked due to the need for more space
20732667_web1_200305-CHC-Robinson-celebration-of-life-venue_2
Bill Robinson with daughter Ella and her family, and his son David. (Photo submitted)

The venue has been changed for the Bill Robinson celebration of life.

It will take place on the same date, Sunday, April 5, at 1 p.m., but at the Cowichan Exhibition Ground’s Mellor Hall instead of the Chemainus Legion.

Robinson, a Chemainus basketball legend, died Feb. 8 at the age of 71 following the effects of a stroke.

Those who were planning to attend are asked to take note and pass on the information about the change to others to make sure they get the message since it’s already been published in newspapers around the Island and Lower Mainland about the previous site.

It was thought Mellor Hall will offer a larger space to accommodate an anticipated huge crowd since Robinson was known in so many places, not only around Canada, but around North America.

Robinson developed into a basketball star at Chemainus Secondary School and went on to put Chemainus on the sporting map with his appearance for Canada in the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal.

Robinson lit up the Canadian university ranks after high school and also got a taste of pro basketball. He represented Canada many times in international basketball and also spent time playing in Europe.

Robinson was known for his charisma, humour and sharp wit.

Many speakers are expected to tell the compelling tales of his life at the celebration.

Robinson is a multiple inductee, with his name featured prominently in the B.C. Sports Hall of Fame, the Canadian Basketball Hall of Fame and the North Cowichan/Duncan Sports Wall of Fame.

20732667_web1_200305-CHC-Robinson-celebration-of-life-venue_3
Grandpa Bill Robinson. (Photo submitted)


Don Bodger

About the Author: Don Bodger

I've been a part of the newspaper industry since 1980 when I began on a part-time basis covering sports for the Ladysmith-Chemainus Chronicle.
Read more