Passed away peacefully in his 87th year on October 28, 2020 at the Health Science Centre, St. John’s. Leaving to mourn his beloved wife and best friend Lucy of 37 years; stepdaughter Robyn Devine (Blair); stepson Greg Devine (Fiona); three daughters, Sally, Alison (Richard) and Jain; two sons, Rob (Jennifer) David (Ann); brother William Wells; and 12 grandchildren, Michael, Maria, Jane, Abby, Jack, Kate, Kyle, Sarek, Luke, Alex, Jacob and Lachlan. He was predeceased by his parents Rev. Warwick Wells and Dorcas Wells.
He was named Rhode Scholar from Newfoundland in 1953, admitted to the Bar of England and Wales (1958) and the Bar of Newfoundland (1959) followed by a distinguished career as a practicing lawyer for 28 years and a Supreme Court Justice of NL (Trial Division) for 22 years. In addition, he served as a member of the House of Assembly, Minister of Health and Government House Leader, President of the Law Society of NL, National President of the Canadian Bar Association, Chairman of the Board of Janeway Child Health Centre and Commissioner for the Offshore Helicopter Safety Inquiry. He was awarded Honorary Doctorates of Laws by Memorial University and by the Benchers of the Law Society and was an Honorary Inspector of the RNC.
He was an inspiration to all who met him and loved by all who knew him. Mostly, we will remember him for his love for his family, his warmth of character and kindness to everyone, his many stories of adventure and humour, his deep intellect and care for society at large. Those cherished memories and his strength of spirit will remain with us forever.
Cremation has taken place. Visitation will take place at Carnell’s Funeral Home, 329 Freshwater Rd. from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. on Saturday, November 14, 2020 and if you wish to attend please contact the family via the following email, lucygwells@gmail.com. In keeping with COVID restrictions, the funeral service will be by invitation on Monday November 16th, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. from the Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Salvation Army Ches Penney Centre of Hope. To send a message of condolence, please visit www.carnells.com.
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of The Honourable Robert Wells QC August 28 1933 to October 28 2020..
Death notice for the town of: St-John’s, Province: T-N