Robin Joan Ruth Samuel (Toliver) passed away peacefully of cancer at home with her children on Thursday April 30, 2026. Born to parents Helen Toliver Bryant and Austin Erasmus Toliver, Robin is survived by her three daughters, Dannielle, Trudy and Jennifer; her three grandchildren, Eber, Erin and Blake; her three sons-in-law Simon, Shawn and Troy; her sisters Alberta and Helen (Annie and Betty); her nieces and nephews James, Roxanne, Grant, Thomas; and her extended cousins.

A life partner to Thomas W R Cook, they spent many years together, fishing, camping, and travelling. Robin could always be found with a book in hand, especially westerns. She loved Soul Train Cruises, a flutter at the casino, Motown grooves and being with her grandchildren and family.

A civil servant for 34 years with Statistics Canada, she received many commendations for her groundbreaking work on developing and delivering Canada’s first National Survey of Violence Against Women, and the first National Survey of Indigenous Peoples. She was also recognized in her role in the union as Chief Steward for Statistics Canada. Robin believed fervently in volunteering and gave her time to the Girl Guides of Canada, St Joe’s Supper Table, the Public Service Alliance of Canada, the Sundance of Women and the Orleans Legion Branch 632. She affected many people’s lives through her volunteerism, her good listening and her frank soul talk. Her nonjudgemental, inclusive and pragmatic approach drew many to seek her wise counsel.

The funeral mass for Robin will occur Thursday July 9, 2026, at 11am at St. Joseph’s Parish, 174 Wilbrod St., Ottawa, ON K1N 6N8.

The Celebration of Life for Robin will be held on Saturday July 11, 2026, at 1pm at Voyageur Provincial Park, 1313 Front Rd, Chute-à-Blondeau, ON K0B 1B0.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Joe’s Supper Table, St. Joseph’s Parish, Ottawa, ON in Robin’s honour.