Robert, Marretje

Marrie (Marretje) Robert (née van Vliet) passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at the age of 89. Born in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, in 1937, Marrie was the eldest of five children of Jacob and Elisabeth van Vliet. She endured the hardships of the Second World War before immigrating to Canada with her family. After high school, Marrie joined the Royal Canadian Air Force, where she met the love of her life and best friend, Marcel Robert. They married in 1959 and shared nearly five decades together. Marrie devoted herself to raising their four sons, Marc, Denis, Paul, and Normand, while embracing the many moves that came with military life. Later, Marrie worked at National Defence Headquarters. In retirement, she and Marcel enjoyed their country property in Thurso, Québec. Following Marcel’s passing, Marrie moved to Rockland, Ontario, where she enjoyed nearly twenty years close to family and friends. She loved bowling, crafting with friends, and participating in her church’s activities. Marrie will be lovingly remembered by her sons Marc (Belinda), Denis (Judy), Paul (Nicole), and Normand (Sarah); grandchildren David (Kathrine), Luke, Noah, Charlotte, Ella, and Sophie; great-grandchildren Charlie and Nathan; sisters Willemina (Peter) and Johanna (Garry); brother Nico; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Marcel; her parents, Jacob and Elisabeth; her brother Jake; and her daughter-in-law, Lison Bastien. A Celebration of Marrie’s Life will be held at Kelly Funeral Home, 2370 St. Joseph Boulevard, Orléans, on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., with a short service at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ottawa Food Bank.