Samuel Robinson

Samuel (Sam) Dale Robinson, age 87, passed away peacefully on September 5th 2025 at the Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon surrounded by his family.

Sam was born December 18th, 1937 at Prince Albert to the late Russell Robinson and Mabel Robinson (nee Tweedie). Sam spent his early years growing up on a farm near Prince Albert with his sisters Bella and Barbara. He graduated from Prince Albert Collegiate Institute as part of the class of 1956. Moving on to university and the work force, Sam obtained a number of degrees through the University of Saskatchewan, including a Master's Degree in English in 1969 and a Bachelor's degree in Education in 1970. While pursuing his studies, Sam was also an elementary school teacher, first in Prince Albert, and then a high school teacher in Swift Current (where he met his wife of 56 years Ruth (nee McKerracher)) and Regina. In 1970, Sam moved to Edmonton and obtained his Ph.D. in Education from the University of Alberta, while also working as an elementary school teacher.

Sam began his career in academia in Halifax in 1973, as an assistant professor in the Faculty of Education at Saint Mary's University. In 1975, he returned to his home province to teach in the Department of Curriculum Studies at the University of Saskatchewan, as an associate professor, starting a 30-year career at the U of S and culminating with his appointment as Associate Dean of the College of Education in the 1990s. During his time as a professor, he supervised and mentored many graduate students in writing and defending their theses. He sat on numerous departmental and university committees as well as being a member of several professional associations, including a term as president of the Canadian Association of Curriculum Studies and editor of the Canadian Journal of Education.

Sam was known as a caring and kind person, open to helping others in whatever capacity he could. In his personal and professional life, with his unassuming demeanor, he always provided generous support and wise counsel to those around him. Sam's main interests were in tending to his flower garden and caring for his many beloved pets. He was an avid dog walker and spent many hours with his dogs in the various dog parks throughout Saskatoon. Sam was also a member of the congregation at Grosvenor Park United Church, contributing his time and expertise to numerous congregational committees and actively supporting the life of the church. He enjoyed playing and watching racquet sports and was a member of the Riverside Badminton and Tennis Club for many years.

Sam is survived by his four children Paul (Mutsumi Okada), Jane, Karen (Roger Simonot) and Lynne, and granddaughters Mariko, Mirielle, Tara, Amy and Maggie. He was predeceased by his wife Ruth and son-in-law Shawn Blair. At Sam's request, there will be no funeral. A private celebration of his life will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, Sam's family suggest donations in his memory be made to the Saskatoon SPCA or Grosvenor Park United Church.