Flora Elizabeth Robinson “Robin” Lake (nee Chafe)
February 2, 1927 to January 17, 2023
Obituary
The funeral service for Robin Lake will be livestreamed for those unable to attend.
Please click HERE for the link
“Proud, elegant, and an expert in elocution”
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Flora Elizabeth Robinson “Robin” Lake (nee Chafe) on January 17th, 2023, aged 95 years.
Born on February 2nd, 1927 in St. John’s, NL, the eldest daughter of Ronald and Flora “Muffie” Chafe. She attended Bishop Spencer School as well as the Toronto Conservatory of Music. She spent many happy summers in Holyrood with her parents, sister, and family. She worked with Furness Withy Shipping Agents. In 1950, she married the love of the life, Harold “Fish” Lake in Toronto. They returned to St. John’s to raise their family – three daughters who they loved and adored. She was a volunteer with the Heart & Stroke Foundation, Cancer Society, and the CNIB.
She had a very discerning ear when it came to music and was a great vocal coach and meticulous to detail. She always expected you to do your best and had high expectations. She sang in the Gower Street Church choir and was a proud Spencer Girl. She made the best baked beans and grilled cheese sandwiches. She was famous for her tea biscuits, her butterscotch pie and lemon meringue pie. Booie took great pride in her ironing skills and hanging a proper clothesline. Her hand knitted sweaters and cotton dishcloths were in high demand. She had an open-door policy for all walks of life offering turkey soup on New Year’s Eve.
She was the original recycler, ahead of her time by ironing tissue paper, creating reusable Christmas boxes, and saving Imperial margarine containers.
She was a survivor of Scarlet Fever at the age of 6; a fact for which we are truly grateful. She lived a long life but was broken hearted after her Harold passed, and was never the same when she lost her “one and only” sister Nalda.
Predeceased by her husband Harold L. Lake; her sister Ronalda (Nalda) Hutton; sons in law David Parker and Duncan Searle.
Left to mourn her daughters, Ronda Parker, Leslie Searle, and Sarah Jane Conklin (Tor); grandchildren, Laura Parker, David Parker (Jacqueline), Victoria Parker, Luke Searle (Stephanie), John Harold Searle (Amanda), Samuel Searle (Amy), Katie Conklin (Brock Stewart), and Lake Conklin; great grandchildren Jacob, Thomas, and William Parker; Max and Catherine Searle; Cameron and Scarlett Searle; Heath and Hudson Searle; Lilah and Autumn Stewart; brother in law Noel C. Hutton; and many loving nieces, nephews both “grand and great” in the Hutton, Lake, Wilson, Chafe, Currie, and Christian Families.
A very special thanks to Ilhan Aden and Pam Winsor, our living angels who were our eyes and ears in looking after our Booie with kindness, love, and compassion. We are forever indebted to Uncle Noel, Auntie Nalda and all the Hutton families who have been there with Booie and by her side every step of the way with “unconditional love”. A special mention to Susanne Gulliver who was Booie’s dear companion.
The funeral service will be held at the Carnell Memorial Chapel, 329 Freshwater Road, on Saturday January 21 at 11am.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or any charity of your choice.
“We Forever Love You” – IFLY
Rhonda, Leslie & Sarah Jane,
I thought of your Mom this morning as I’m sitting here with my morning coffee.
If only I had known, I would have sent this message sooner, with my sincere condolences.
Your Mom was a beautiful lady (inside & out)! I met her through your Dad of course as I worked for “Mr. Lake” in the early 80’s. After your Dad passed, Mrs. Lake (I could never call her Robbie) & I exchanged Christmas cards / phone calls. I will never forget how much she enjoyed the sparkles I enclosed in every card I’ve sent her over the years.
I especially loved our visits in person when my husband Mark and I travelled to St. John’s. She was so happy to update us on you and your families and her many visits to Nova Scotia.
I feel fortunate to have known both your parents and will remember them with much love. ❤️❤️
Auntie Boo was a character and brought so much life and joy to any occasion. I have amazing memories of her and Nalda holding court, providing endless entertainment. She loved her family and friends and lived a wonderful life. She will be missed by all who knew her.
Dear Uncle Noel and all the family,
I only just found out this morning (Feb 1) from Mom, that Auntie Boo passed away. How everyone will miss her. I would have been at Carnell’s, had I known. Boo and Auntie Nalda -heckle & jeckle – I used to teasingly call them, were my faves in the auntie department. What beautiful, loving women. And, sadly times goes on.
I’m mailing a personal card to Noel & family today.
Much love to you all and to absent friends.
Sheila (Gillett)
Leslie, I am so sorry for your loss. I became aware of your mother’s passing yesterday. I remember your mother fondly and know that you and she were always very close. My condolences to yourself, your sisters, and extended family. I wish you all well during this difficult time.
Ann Stick Bedard
Dear Ronda, Leslie, and Sarah Jane
So sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing.. Such a special Lady.
Love to you all,
Dawn Coveyduck
Rhonda, Leslie and Sarah Jane
Linda and I were so sad to hear of Aunt Robbie’s passing.
We have many fond memories of your Mom and Dad, especially from parties with the circle of friends who remained so close throughout the years.
Your Mom lit up the room with her beautiful smile, and listening to her sing was such a treat.
Aunt Robbie always had a way of making us feel special, both as children and adults., and we are remembering her with love and affection.
The service you held for your Mom was a wonderful tribute in music and touching words from the family who loved her so dearly.
We can picture Aunt Robbie in heaven now with her beloved Harold, our Mom and Dad , friends and family, smiling and rolling her eyes good-naturedly as Uncle Harold and Uncle Geoff entertain them all with The Peanut Song❤️
Love
Karen and Linda
I loved Robin Lake. What a great woman. Peace and Blessings be upon her.
Dear Ronda, Leslie and Sarah Jane.
We are remembering your mother with affection and admiration. For us, as children at Riverdale, and through our entire lives, your mother exuded such kindness and interest in everyone. Her smile, warmth and gentle ways always made it such a pleasure to see her. What gratitude you must feel for your mother’s long, full and happy life.
With love from 3 sisters to 3 sisters… Janine, Val and Patti
My thoughts and love are with you, my first cousins, Ronda, Leslie and Sarah Jane, and all your many extended family members, as you walk through the loss of your Mother, my dearest Auntie Robbie..You were often more than my cousins, as I spent so much of my childhood years at your home..I have so many wonderful and loving memories of Auntie Robbie, really too many to share here, except to say, she was always ‘there’ for me, as well as Uncle Harold and you, Ronda and Leslie, (SarahJane but then just a dream) and opened your home and loving support as I went through my own challenging times..Of course, I remember Butterscotch Pies, my favorite, Lemon Meringue pies, my brother Berch’s favorite, and delicious meals with lots of fun and laughter..I can still hear Auntie Robbie saying “Oh Harold”, when he wanted to tease her, or say something that she thought was not appropriate.. I am grateful , that more than a few years ago, now,, we had some telephone conversations, usually around Christmas, when we talked for quite some time, about how you were all doing, her asking me about my life and my two boys, and of course reminiscing ..I will always cherish those conversations, as I am certain, you all will have your own special memories of this amazingly, beautiful, talented, creative and extraordinarily loving woman, your Mother, your Boo, your Granny, and so on, and my Auntie Robbie..
Much Love,
Gaye
Dear Rhonda,
Gordie & I are so sorry to learn that your dear mother has passed away. She was such a beautiful person & such a spreader of love & joy.. She was truly well named “Robin” with her vivacious personality & twinkling eyes. She was a gracious lady & one who truly brimmed over with pride in all of her brood. I know she will be sorely missed by all of you as she will be missed by our community at large.Please accept our sincere condolences to you & all the Lake & Hutton families on your great loss.
Eileen & Gordie MacNab
Dear Ronda, Leslie, Sarah Jane and all the members of the proud Parker, Searle and Conklin clans.
Gayle and I were saddened to just learn of your dear mother’s passing. While we only ever met when she visited your homes in Truro, it was always such a pleasure to share her company. Her grace, beauty, kindness and genuine interest in others shone through. But the quality we remember most was the love & pride she had in her 3 daughters, their husbands, and the children and grandchildren that eventually filled the “Lake”. May fond memories of those precious times together and the love of family and friends provide comfort and blessings for a full life, well lived. Jamie & Gayle Saunders
So very sad to hear this news, Leslie and family. Booie was a shining light, an elegant and fun spirit. I feel privileged to have known her. Sending love and light your way.
So sad to hear of your mom’s passing. May she rest in peace. I have many fond memories of Boxing Day charades and her exquisitely wrapped Christmas gifts, almost too pretty to open. Love and hugs to you all.
The Lake and Hutton Families,
We were saddened to hear of the passing of Mrs. Lake.
She was a beautiful lady with a warm and loving smile.
Mrs. Lake was loved by all those she touched.
We remember the friendship, parties, stories, and laughter our parents Bill and Mary shared with Robbie and Fish. They lived life to the fullest.
May the sun shine on them as they all meet again.
Fodddie(as he was known by Robbie) and I just arrived back from Maine on Thursday but did manage to see the church service which was out of this world and gave us so many memories of Robbie and Harold.. our deepest sympathy to Leslie and Rhonda and families.
Marguerite
Rhonda, Leslie, Sarah Jane and families,
We are so sorry for your loss. Mrs. Lake was such a beautiful lady! I remember when she had my bridal shower for me. I was so touched that she would do that. She was so thoughtful.! It was a wonderful party and I will never forget it!
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Dearest Leslie and Family,
So sad to heard of Booie’s passing.. I have so many fond memories of her at the Music Festival in Truro. .Another memory that makes me smile , was her high school reunion , which I got to share with you , Booie and Auntie Nelda..
She was truly a special lady and I was so privileged to have known her!
My condolence should read Robin and Ronalda, As girls at their cottage in Holyrood braiding my hair. Sincerely Marie Furey Power.
Ronda, Leslie, Sarah Jane,
We’re remembering Auntie Robbie’s kindness, elegance and wonderful laugh.
Sending love from the Leishman family.
Leslie, Rhonda and Sarah,
You had a beautiful Mom who touched so many of us. As I watched the wonderful celebration of her life, I was struck by how fortunate all of us were to have her (and Uncle Fish) as role models. Such love, such grace, so kind!
I’m sure Mom was singing along and smiling from ear to ear from above.
Thank you for sharing.,
Love Helen (Baird) Heneghan and of course, the other fella💕💕💕💕
To Robbie’s family, our thoughts are mixed – with sorrow on the departure of a wonderful person, and with happiness in knowing that she made things just that much brighter, wherever she went. The world needs more, many more like Robbie Lake.
Jennifer (Currie) Sparkes and Paul Sparkes
My memories of Robin and Roberta in Holyrood as their cottage was behind Furey’s hotel where we lived. The girls would braid my hair , they were so patient with me as a child. I am glad I met Robin here once at Tiffany and we chatted. May her gentle soul rest in peace. Sincerely Marie Furey Power.
Booie was a lady whose love and friendship we can never forget. We were honored, on many occasions, when she lived on Portugal Cove Road, to lend a hand with some yard and household chores, to partake of her excellent culinary skills and especially, to share in her beautiful social graces. We felt that she always went a little beyond to accept our little family into her household. There are many lovely stories to tell. Please accept our sincere condolences and may you take comfort, knowing that she is no longer missing the ones she loved so dearly. May God bless and strengthen you in this time of sadness.
Sending our condolences to all the family. We remember many great and fun filled chats and visits. Difficult times but incredible memories for you all. Sending hugs from the Truro MacLellans ❤️
To Leslie and Family:
So sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. She was a lovely and gracious lady. Kindest regards to all, Ruth
So sorry to hear that you have lost “Auntie Boo” but glad to hear that she has been united with her Harold and her dear sister Nalda. For many years the Chafe sister moved as one, finishing each other’s thoughts and literally holding each other up. The doors at Parkdale would open and they would head straight down to the dispensary to see if Dougie was behind the counter. After a quick chat and smiles so wide, they would check out everything and everyone in the store. Stories, news and smiles distributed and maybe even a purchase made and they were off on their next adventure. May sunny days and great friends and family greet you. Condolences to all who loved her so.
I feel so fortunate to have been able to spend a little time with “Auntie Boo” at gatherings in Ontario and to hear some of the wonderful stories about her from Robin.. I always felt instantly at ease around her, always welcomed, which thinking back seems to have been a special gift of the Chafe sisters. The deep love and warmth her family had for her was always very clear and a real joy to be around.. My heart goes out to them all.
I am very sorry to hear of Robbie’s passing. Harold was my first cousin (on the Lake side in Fortune) and a good friend, so I thought of Robbie as a close cousin as well. I always visited them when in St. John’s and she usually phoned me and my late sister Helen once a year to keep in touch and exchange news. I, and Fumiko, will miss her. Our sympathy to Ronda, Leslie, Sarah Jane and the rest of the family.
Philip Smith
Montreal
To Rhonda, Leslie, Sarah Jane and the Hutton Family,
My heartfelt condolences go out to you all as you grieve the passing or your dear mother, grandmother, aunt and sister in law. I have many fond and happy memories of many picnics shared together, especially the very last one at your family home . Always welcomed and surrounded by laughter, and song ( of course) I always marvelled at the close camaraderie of the two sisters, joined at the hip, who radiated love and acceptance for all. May your warm memories of these joyful times past comfort you in the days ahead.
Karen ( Ash) Fung–Kee-Fung
So sorry to hear about your mum’s passing. “Auntie” Robbie was so. elegant, warm and talented and I have have many fond childhood memories of family parties together. Thinking of you all and the Hutton clan at this time and hoping that many happy memories help to fill the void in your hearts.
Rhonda, Leslie and Sarah Jane,. I have many happy memories of both your Mom and your Dad, they were great friends of my parents.
Remember the happy times.
So sorry to hear that Robbie has died. We met her many years ago through our dear friend and neighbour, Betty Baird and were charmed by that lovely smile. She was very special. Condolences to the family. Paris and Janet Georghiou
OURS was a friendship that stared when we were children. attending Church service with our grand parents. at Gower Street United Church. Over the years we would meet the odd time “down town” or Christmas shopping… It was always so good to see her.and have a little chat. We had a recipe for chocolate cake that we shared a long time ago. Sincere sympathy to the family on your loss of Robie from our family. Cap & Ray Tooton
I am so very sorry to hear of dear Robbie’s passing. What can I say that hasn’t already been said so well—elegant, kind, generous, gentle with an infectious smile. But I hang onto one memory, perhaps the last, when she made a huge effort despite physical challenges to help me identify people in some old family photos that dated back to Lollie’s day. She was so sweet and kind. My deepest condolences to everyone.
Rhonda, Leslie and Sarah Jane::
So very sorry to learn of your Mother’s passing. I have many, many fond memories of time spent in our earlier years with her and , particularly in company with Aunt Joan and Uncle Geoff on Pringle Place and Portugal Cove Road..
My sincerest condolences on your loss and know that my thoughts are with you and your families.
So very sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. She was a beautiful person whom I always loved seeing with your Aunt Nalda as they went about together.
You were all very fortunate to have had in her with you for so long and I’m sure you’ll miss her very much. Never easy to say adieu to your mother, even after such a lovely and long life.
Please accept our deepest condolences.
Renee (Marquis) and Paul Antle
So very sorry to hear about Mrs Lakes passing.
My Mom and Dad and Harold and Robbie had a wonderful friendship and spent many an evening together on Portugal Cove Road and Empire Ave.
Lots of fun and laughter and great memories!
Ronda, Leslie, Sarah Jane and all and every you hold close and dear. The handsome heaven-sent Robbie
will remain in full youth-and-spendour as does your
Father, forever emblazoned in sound and sight, the stories ringing.. In the ways we knew and know them both, with yourselves and David and Duncan, there was always the presence of story, delight and absolute sincerity for regard of community, of the healing of music, of dedication to being ‘human’.
Marilyn and I nod ‘accardin to the privilege, joy and
richness of being around you. Such beauty is the joy on earth. In love and celebration, your friends,
Boyd and Marilyn chubbs
Dear Leslie, Ronda and all the family, Sincere condolences on the passing of your dear mother. A life well lived with beauty and wisdom, I am sure passed on to her three proud girls. May precious memories keep her ever close to your hearts.
Rhonda, Leslie and Sarah Jane –
My most favorite thing about Aunt Robbie was her hugs — so soft and so warm and so loving. Those hugs, along with the warmth and lovingness that came out of every part of her. (And of course her most amazing butterscotch pie — oh my, I am craving a piece right now!)
Tony and I are thinking of you guys, and wishing we could give you our version of Aunt Robbie hugs. We can’t in person, but please know we are in our hearts doing just that.
She will be missed – she will be forever loved.
Peggy
Ronda, Leslie, Sarah Jane and families
Sitting here with my. Mom , as she reminisces about the concerts she and your Mom took part in at Bishop Spencer . Your Mom with her beautiful voice ,and my Mom as a dancer , with the pleasure of holding her cape!?
She was a beautiful and talented woman, mother and wife. Our sincerest condolences to you all. A life well lived
Heather and Nancy Hickman
The Lake and Hutton Families and friends
I was sadden to learn of Robin’s recent passing.. I know she will be sadly missed. Please accept my deepest condolences. You all remain in my thoughts and prayers.
Rhonda,Leslie&SarahJane,
So sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing. Our deepest condolences to you & your families.
She was such a wonderful lady!💕
Sarah Jane,
Our thoughts are with you and your family during your time of loss. Booie was always ready with a smile and kind words to us when we visited in Fall River.
We remember her sitting on the dock at Skiff Lake, clapping her applause as her grandchildren jumped off the rock into the water.
She will be missed.
Auntie Boo was such a bright light to everyone she touched and she will be greatly missed ! Sending my love and condolences to the entire family xx
Thinking of you , Ronda at this difficult time .I have such wonderful memories of your mom with her beautiful smile and sense of humor. You are truly blessed to have had her as your mother. May she now have the long awaited reunion with your dad and aunt. She will remain in your heart forever.
Condolences, Paula Jamieson Magalios
Ronda,
Sincere condolences to you, your sisters and your families and also to the Hutton clan. How fortunate your Mom was to have you all in her life, and her in yours.
Eleanor and Steve
Sending sincere condolences to the family of Auntie Boo on behalf of my mom Shirley Birmingham. Mom is now residing at St Patrick’s Mercy Home but I remember her talking about Auntie Boo and their phone chats. Thinking of you at this difficult time.
We are so sorry to hear of Robin’s passing. We were friends of Robin and Harold for many years. Robin was an elegant and charming lady and surely will be missed. We want to express our condolences and extend to her family our thoughts, prayers, and best wishes.
Ronda. Leslie, Sarah Jane and Booie’s entire family:
Bob and I were very saddened to hear of the passing of your beautiful Mommy, and “Gramma Boo”. It is so difficult to lose the Matriarch of any family, but especially someone so dear as Booie. A true lady, in every sense,. We hope that the memories she has left with you, will help you through your deep loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you! Hugs and Love, Bob & Colleen
Please accept my deepest condolences. Robin was a loving, kind soul who has always held a place in my heart.
The Lake Family
Our deepest sympathies on the loss of a very special woman. I have very fond memories of spending time with Robin,
Harold , Sarah Jane and the whole Hutton clan in year’s gone by. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.. Tommy Williams and Family.
Deepest condolesences to the Lake, Chafe and Hutton families on Robin’s (Auntie Boo’s) passing. Newfoundland has lost another treasure.
Mildred Steinhauer
To Robins family
My sympathy on your mums passing. Leslie and Rhonda …. It was always nice to meet up with you and our talks would always get to her . I’ll never forget meeting her years ago in Truro …. She was one of a kind and never will be forgotten.
Robin,
You used to talked to me at the door..
When you came iHome from being
Outside, you were a special friend to me. You were never home. You were an active person.
I am going to miss you so much, you were a true friend
I love you
Sandra
So sorry to hear of Auntie Boo’s passing. Both Nalda and Auntie Boo were such fun together. They both loved their music.
Deepest condolences.
Don and Sarah Osmond
So sorry to see read of Auntie Boo’s passing in today’s paper. She had such a big heart & warm smile; her kindness was infectious spreading joy to others.
A great mom; a great person; a great love affair with husband Harold; and a great life well lived. My condolences to all familiy
Thinking for you all Sarah Jane! Lots of love! Tracey, Peter, Liam and sarah Lewis
Sarah Jane and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Booie was an amazing woman for an array of reasons and will be deeply missed by all who we’re fortunate enough to know her. Sending love and hugs to help you through this difficult time.
Much Love, ,
Taryn Winsor
Thinking of you all ; gathered to celebrate a life well lived.
I remember meeting your Mum at one time. She was delightful . It was always a pleasure to hear you speak of her. Our thoughts are with you …….. Sincerely, Mary Jean and Jamie Muir
I know how much you three loved her. I’m sorry you have lost her. She has slipped away as we all must…. But perhaps still close enough to whisper lovingly in your ear..
Warmest sympathy.
Sending our deepest condolences. It is a true honour to have known Booie as one of our beloved friends. She was always so kind and graceful and made the best gingerbread cake! ❤️
Rest In Peace Auntie Boo. It was a true honour and privilege to have known you. To all of Mrs. Lake’s family and friends, you have my deepest condolences.
Sincerely,
Allison Denny
Bless ‘Auntie Boo’…”Perhaps ‘he’s’ waiting up there.” No doubt he is…with open arms.
Peter
In a word … “ Beautiful”
To Rhonda, Leslie, and Sarah Jane. I’m very sorry you lost your mom. I will remember her warm smile and kindness.
Michael Doyle
Rhonda, Leslie, Sarah Jane and families, we are so sorry to hear of Booie’s passing. Our deepest condolences. We have the fondest memories of Our time spent with Booie and all her family. She was so proud of her girls and their families,! Our prayers and deepest condolences to you. Carlotta and Paul Roche
While I didn’t know Mrs. Lake (Booie), I certainly heard over time what a wonderfully sharp and elegant lady she was from my friend, Susanne Gulliver. She was well cared for and well loved. My condolences to her family and to all who loved her.
The most beautiful soul is with her love again. They have to be so happy to be reunited. Russ and I had the pleasure of living with Mr. & Mrs Lake for a few years. Their love was so original, and an inspiration for Russ and I.. Love them both, and remember fondly our time with them often. They were so proud of the family and will live on through them. Rest in peace Booie, with all our love. Sincere condolences Ronda, Leslie, Sarah and their families. Sincerely Russell & Elaine Moores
So sorry to hear of your mothers passing. Great memories of your mother and father. They both great friends of Dad and Mom.
Sarah Jane , so sorry to hear about your mom. I know you have lots of memories. May you find comfort in those little things that will remind you of your mom everyday .xo
Sarah Jane, so sorry to hear of your Mum’s passing. So glad she will be remembered in your most recent book. Hugs