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Robert Hartley Hill

May 8, 1942 - December 21, 2014

Robert Hartley Hill, also fondly known as Abbey and Bob, 72, went to his heavenly home on December 21, 2014 after a valiant battle with a long illness with his wife Violet at his side. His devotion too Violet and his family, along with his firm belief in God supported him in his struggles and ultimately gave him peace.


Robert was born to Marjorie Hill (nee Robinson) from Hartley Bay and the late

Ernest Matthew Hill from Kitkatla, on May 8, 1942, in Hartley Bay BC. Robert

Hartley Hill is survived by his wife, Violet Hill nee Boudreau; his sons Ron,

Darren and Todd Wilson; his daughters Jo-Lynda Hill and Marji Basso; His mother

Marjorie Hill; brothers Ernest Goodlet and Clare Hill; his sisters Violet Adams and

Doris Bertrand; eight grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He is

preceded by his father, Ernie Hill; his grandparents Violet and Ambrose Robinson

and Matthew and Clara Hill and his brother in law Julius Boudreau.


Robert was immersed in his culture and the church. Both would be his lifelong

support that made him an active leader not only for the Gitga’at Nation but for all Nations that needed support and a voice. He was an elder in the church and was devoted to Hartley Bay choir. He spent many years as a heavy duty mechanic and loved to work on boats. He was also the President of the Tsimshian Tribal Council for many years. He was the voice of the Tsimshian Nation. Robert had many friends that he met throughout his life's journey and built lifelong relationships with them based on respect and “a matter of fact” honesty.


Robert was blessed by being able to move people with the gift of speech. Whether it was in Sm’algyx (his cultural language) or modern day English his words would penetrate your heart. He was able to walk in both worlds side by side and did it with honour and pride.


Above all this, Robert was an educator at heart. He always had time to answer a

question or solve a problem, no matter how big or small it was. He is dearly missed by his loved ones, who celebrate the fact that he is at peace with his creator.


Services for Robert will be held Saturday, January 24, 2015, at 7pm,

First United Church in Prince Rupert

and in Hartley Bay on Saturday, January 31, 2015.



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