Thom Robinson is survived by Pat; to whom he was married for more than 70 years; two children; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Pat Robinson was the daughter of Paul G. Duke, the co-founder of ChemLawn.
“Over the last 40-plus years, my grandparents have had the opportunity to be a part of so many impactful projects, particularly in Troy and Miami County, but also throughout West Central and Central Ohio regions,” said Rayce Robinson.
“What is most impressive is the broad stroke of organizations and missions that they have supported; from helping local business owners with personal needs, leading the charge for youth programs, important projects for schools and higher education, establishing opportunities for nonprofit leaders to grow in their acumen, contributing to parks and recreation, various health and human services organizations throughout the region or helping a myriad of others with capital campaign contributions and enhancements,” he said. “Proudly, there are too many organizations to name, but nothing has ever been too big or too small for them to consider. In fact, one of their best legacy qualities is being willing to oftentimes take chances on supporting something new and different, when no one else will.”
Pat and Thom Robinson’s names often are associated with the Paul G. Duke Foundation and the Robinson Fund.
The Duke Foundation, created by Paul G. Duke during the height of success of ChemLawn, was established as a vehicle to give back and “to be a catalyst to enhance the quality of life in the Miami County area and its people,” Rayce Robinson said.
The Robinson Fund was the vehicle in which Thom and Pat Robinson “together carved their legacy through the fruits of their own successes,” he said.
Ted Mercer, a Troy resident and Miami County commissioner, knew the Robinsons for many years with both business and personal relationships. He serves on the board of the Robinson Fund.
“Both Thom and Pat have been so generous to Troy and Miami County. Thom cared so much about the quality of life in our community,” Mercer said. “Thom was a great ambassador to our community … His legacy will live throughout our community for years to come. Personally, I have lost a great friend and mentor.”
Troy Mayor Robin Oda said the city and all of Miami County was saddened by Thom Robinson’s passing.
”Thom and his beautiful wife, Pat, have been the benefactors of a multitude of projects that our community enjoys today and will continue to enjoy for decades to come. While we mourn his passing and express our sincerest sympathies to Pat and the family, we will celebrate his legacy and community spirit that will live on all around us,” Oda said.
A private family graveside service will be held at Riverside Cemetery, Troy. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Feb. 8 ,from noon until 2 p.m. at Crafted & Cured, 8 S. Market St., Troy.
Contact this contributing writer at nancykburr@aol.com
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