Robert Shea Obituary, St John’s NL, Associate Professor at Memorial University has died: It is with great sadness that we share the sudden passing of Dr. Robert Shea at the age of 60 on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rob is predeceased by his parents, Madonna (Power) and Dermot Shea, and his father-in-law, Francis Joy. He leaves to mourn with heavy hearts but cherished memories his loving wife of 32 years and the love of his life, Rhonda, and his three beautiful children and the joys of his life, Kathleen, Ryan (Paige), and John. Rob took great pride not only in his children’s achievements but in the individuals they have grown to be.
Deeply saddened by this incredible loss are his brother, Doug Shea (Betty, Robyn, Michael, Krista); his sisters, Marilyn Shea (Jon Cesla, Ryan, Jill, Erin, and Reiner) and Carole Charlebois (Mike, Julie, Colin, Ian, Victoria, Natalie, and Luc); his mother-in-law, Shirley Joy; brothers-in-law, Gary Joy (Marlene, Audrey, Sophia), Robert Joy (Paulette, Mitchell), Noel Joy (Stephanie, Amanda, Jeremy), Craig Joy (Colleen, Frankie); and sister-in-law, Karen Legge (Brad, Nicole, Michael). He will also be missed by a large extended family and close friends, including cousins, nieces, nephews, and many more who loved him dearly.
Rob had many wonderful friends with whom he developed close relationships throughout his successful career both locally and globally. They will feel his loss deeply.
An associate professor in the Faculty of Education at Memorial University, Rob served as Associate Vice President (Academic and Student Affairs) of the Fisheries and Marine Institute. He was the co-lead of Memorial’s historic partnership with Nunavut Arctic College and provided outstanding service to Memorial University for over 30 years, previously serving in several key roles.
Rob was a life-long learner with a B.A., B.S.W., and M.Ed. from Memorial University, and an Ed.D. from the University of Calgary. In his role at the Faculty of Education, Rob was passionate about the education of future adult and post-secondary leaders. His research focused on experiential learning, post-secondary student retention, adult education, and university and college leadership. He was an enthusiastic supporter of his students and the work of the Faculty.
Active in the community, Rob served as the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Chair of the Canadian Forces Liaison Council. He was recently awarded the Meritorious Service Medal from the Governor General of Canada for his work in career education and received the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers for helping to establish the provincial chapter of the Parkinson Foundation of Canada in Newfoundland.
The family will receive visitors at Carnell’s Funeral Home, 329 Freshwater Road, on Saturday, May 25th from 2-4 PM and 7-9 PM, and Sunday, May 26th from 2-4 PM and 7-9 PM. Funeral mass will be held at the Basilica of St. John the Baptist on Monday, May 27th, at 11 AM. Donations in Rob’s name may be made to the Parkinson Society, Newfoundland and Labrador.
