Obituary of Roland Wilhelm Dobler

It is with great sadness that we bid farewell to Roland Dobler, a hard-working, resilient, kind and wise soul, who passed away peacefully at home on June 20, surrounded by his loving family.

Roland was born in Schwabisch Gmund, Germany and became an ornamental Iron worker apprentice at the young age of 14. At the age of 19, he immigrated to Canada and shortly after started at Ray Twist Ornamental Ironcraft where he worked for 39 years. He was known for his strong work ethic, integrity, knowledge and the quality of his work, where many of his projects are still key fixtures today. He was a master in the craft.

After retiring he continued his interest in ironcraft with some consulting work and creative projects, but was also able to embrace his other passions like cooking and baking. Roland loved spending time in the kitchen and was always trying new soup recipes and made his famed apple cake for many special occasions.

Roland married Dini, the love of his life for over 56 years and built their family home in 1971, which they’ve enjoyed ever since, and still to this day. Together they had 3 children, Chris, Stephanie (deceased 2014), and Melanie. Family was everything to Roland and he took great pride in his family and their achievements. He loved spending time and sharing stories with his grandchildren Sebastian and Mackenzie, and always had treats in his pocket for the family dogs.

Roland always kept strong ties to his extended family in both the Netherlands and Germany, and many summers and holidays were enjoyed spending time with relatives both overseas and in London. Over the years, he also made many cherished friendships, some starting soon after his arrival to Canada at International House.

Roland made the world a better place and was a role model for many. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

As per Roland’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be held at a late date.

A special thanks to the palliative care team who kept Roland comfortable for his final months.

If desired, donations in Roland’s memory can be made to the James J Hammond Fund at www.jjhfund.org a sarcoma research foundation.

For online condolences, please visit www.woodlandcemetery.ca/tribute/all-services/index.html

“What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.” - Pericles

“Du bist nicht mehr da wo du warst, aber du bist uberall wo wir sind.”