DAVID S. ROBERTSON

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DAVID S. ROBERTSON It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of David S. Robertson on September 19, 2004 at the Health Sciences Centre. He will be sadly missed by his wife Viola; his son Mark; his mother Catherine; and the Robertson cousins. He was predeceased by his father Robert. Born and raised in Winnipeg, David had a long career in broadcasting and theatre. He was an announcer and disc jockey at CJOB from 1947 to 1952 where he interviewed Louis Armstrong, Lena Horn, Patti Page and Frankie Laine. Kiddies Korner aired on Saturday mornings when David would read the comics in character along with Cliff Gardner. After leaving CJOB, he freelanced with CBC performing radio dramas. He was involved with "Little Theatre" in Winnipeg appearing in "Harvey" and "The Philadelphia Story" and was awarded the Victor Sifton Trophy for Solo Drama Performance. He opened a drama school "Actors Showcase". Some of his students were accepted into the National Theatre School. In 1958, David began an association with John Hirsch - when he was cast as Biff in Death of a Salesman with Gordon Pinsent. This led to many performances with John Hirsch and the Manitoba Theatre Centre. He performed in three or four plays a season including: Valpone, Hatful of Rain, "Papa Frank" in Diary of Ann Frank, and "Doc" in Mr. Roberts with Len Cariou. David worked for Rainbow Stage in publicity and promotion, as business manager, and finally as artistic director and producer when Hirsch left for Stratford. That year, 1963, he produced and directed Westside Story. During the winter season, he produced and directed musicals for the University of Manitoba. David joined the CBC in 1966 as television producer and director. He held that position for 20 years producing "Around Town", "Reach for the Top", documentaries, shows devoted to local talent, and the Diane Stapley Show winning the National ACTRA Award for best performance two years in a row. David continued his acting career in movies and local productions. He was an artistic, talented man who gave many people their start in show business. He was always well liked and appreciated. He was a good son, father, and husband and will never be forgotten. A service of remembrance will be held on Thursday, September 23, 2004 at 2:00 p.m. at Green Acres Funeral Home, Hwy. #1 E. at Navin Road with Rev. Barbara Cook officiating. If friends so desire, memorial contributions may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, 6 Donald St., Wpg, MB R3L 0K6. GREEN ACRES Funeral Home and Cemetery Hwy. #1 E. at Navin, 1-204-925-1120

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 22, 2004