Robert Bruce Borthwick

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert Bruce Borthwick, beloved husband, father, grandfather, teacher, and friend. Rob left us on September 27, 2025, due to complications with post-op medications after his recent knee replacement, one week after his 77th birthday.

Rob was born on September 20, 1948, in Grace Hospital in Vancouver, and grew up in Richmond, BC, the youngest child to Bruce and Dorothy Borthwick. His older brothers James (Doug) and Tom Borthwick remained in the Richmond area, while Robert explored much of the world before settling in Salmon Arm. Though Rob loved his decision to settle in Salmon Arm, he always loved returning to coast to feel the ocean breeze and smell the sea.

Rob was accelerated in high school, graduating at 16. He completed a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of British Columbia in 1969 and went traveling prior to completing his Teacher Education certification and teaching in Gibsons. After he got a taste of (and for) teaching, Rob went traveling again. He was an exploratory soul, and he traveled for several years before returning to BC and teaching most of his career at Salmon Arm Senior Secondary (SASS) where he would teach for the remainder of his laudable career as an educator. In 1989 Rob completed a Master degree at Gonzaga University while teaching and raising his family.

Rob was an exemplary teacher, due in part to his genuine interest in the world around him. Rob was always learning. He valued curiosity and questions, and he brought an immense enthusiasm for learning, a love of chemistry, and the world around him which was infectious. He had a profound and lasting impact on generations of students.

Rob’s enthusiasm for exploration, traveling, and quenching his curiosity led him to take his family on a wide variety of adventures and travels. Rob loved sports, including skiing, playing soccer for much of his life, and golf right up until his knee-surgery laid him up. He was involved in the community as a high school soccer coach for many years for the Golds and Jewels, and President of the Salmon Arm Soccer Association. Rob is survived by his wife of 46 years, Elisabeth Borthwick; his sons, Daniel (Clarissa), Richard (Danica), and James (Melanie), and his grandchildren, Daya, Eli, Trevor, Vanessa, Nova, Kaelyn, Evan, and Natalie. He is also survived by his brothers Doug (Alice) and Tom (Carole) and numerous nieces and nephews.

Rob and Elisabeth were married in England in 1979, and they grew a life and home together full of laughter and love that shaped and inspired their children. Rob ended an amazing journey full of joy and adventure with wonderful friends and family, surrounded by the love and prayers of his family. He is deeply missed.