Obituary of Robert William Lang

Lang, Robert William April 27, 1945 – November 18, 2023 At Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital, with his spouse at his side, Robert slipped away five weeks after a catastrophic event that had already stolen from us his wisdom, his wit, his strength and his love. The youngest of four children born to Annika “Nellie” (nee Orlofsky) and William John Lang (né Kureluk), Robert’s first years were spent in a small home on Roslin Avenue in Toronto. By the time his father moved house and opened a restaurant on Highway 2, Rob had discovered an abiding love of horses, and at the age of 14 was keeping one in his father’s garage and riding in the Rouge River Valley area. In time he was grooming horses at Woodbine Racetrack, and then took a farriery course in Pennsylvania, an adventure he often referred to. By his mid-forties an avid and knowledgeable equestrian, Robert met his match after taking his mare to a new boarding stable, where Jacquie was keeping her own horse. Many ensuing conversations about cats and horses in particular, and everything else in general, were the beginnings of a loving partnership that lasted 33 years. Proud father of Simon Schmidt (Kim Leab), and doting grandfather of Sarika and Charya Schmidt, whose pictures he carried in his wallet. Predeceased by both parents and his sisters Joan and Barbara, Robert is survived by his brother Ted (Theodore) Lang of Kingston and Ted’s wife Elizabeth, as well as numerous nephews and nieces. Robert is deeply missed by spouse Jacquie Allinson, family, and friends. Cremation has taken place, with plans underway for a memorial gathering at a later date. Special thanks are extended to Rama Paramedics and Ramara firefighters, the crews of ORNGE, and the doctors, nurses, and other staff at both Soldiers’ Memorial and Sunnybrook hospitals. You are appreciated. Memorial donations may be made to the Comfie Cat Shelter in Orillia through the Simcoe Funeral Home, 38 James Street E., Orillia (705) 327-0221. Messages of condolence are welcomed at www.simcoefuneralhome.ca .