Donald Bruce Robinson III
September 16, 1953 - April 23, 2026
It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of Donald Bruce Robinson, III, on April 23, 2026, in Salt Lake City, Utah. He passed away peacefully at home after a 10-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Don was born on September 16, 1953, in Chicago, Illinois, to Bruce and Jo Anne Robinson. He was raised in Palos Verdes, California and spoke fondly of memories of high school water polo, Boy Scout adventures to Catalina Island, and a special bond with his dog, Rosco. As a family, we returned to California every summer to spend a week boating and swimming with his high school friends – traditions that spoke to the lasting importance of those early friendships and Don’s love of the water.
Don began his career with Western Airlines in Los Angeles, California, and was later transferred to Anchorage, Alaska. A ski trip to Salt Lake City changed the course of his life. There, he met Laura and soon arranged for a transfer so they could be together. They were married on February 2, 1985, and went on to build a loving family.
Don dedicated 36 years to Delta Airlines. Outside of work he enjoyed skiing, music, movies, deep sea fishing, beekeeping, and brewing his own beer. He especially loved the Oregon coast where he enjoyed crabbing, exploring tide pools, and sharing bowls of clam chowder. He had a deep love for animals, especially the dogs he cared for throughout his life, who were cherished members of the family and a source of joy.
Above all, he treasured time spent with family and friends, creating lasting memories filled with laughter and love. He was a devoted father who never missed his children’s activities, often serving as room mom Don, a soccer coach, swim official, or cheering at gymnastics meets.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Laura; his daughters, Leslie (Drew) and Megan; his cherished granddaughter, Eleanor; Aunt Roberta Robinson and cousins Todd and Megan (Chris and Caireann). He was preceded in death by his parents, Bruce and Jo Anne, his sister Judy, and Uncle Bob.
Don will be fondly remembered for his warmth, his sense of humor, his love of family, and his ever-growing collection of Vans shoes. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
The family wishes to express their deep appreciation to his CNS Hospice team (Shawna, Rebecca, Cindy, Matt and Kim) and BrightStar home health aides (Mike G, Angelle, and Zantera) for their compassionate and dedicated care, which made it possible for him to remain at home surrounded by comfort and love.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to share memories and honor his life.
In Loving Memory
I remember Mr. Robinson so fondly. I’m glad I got to know him during my time on the Seattle University swim team! I’m so grateful for my friendship with his daughter Megan at a pivotal moment when my dad died at the beginning of my college career and the Robinson family really opened their hearts to me and my family. Mr. Robinson was such a kind soul to have around the pool deck, and I remember sharing laughs behind the blocks and you could always hear him cheering for Megan any opportunity he got to see her swim. I really remember and will carry with me his laugh and smile and warm fatherly love and persona that came at a time when I needed it the most. I can only feel such a small fraction of what Megan and her family feel now, but I want them to know my heart is with them. Nothing makes this easier, unfortunately. In someway, I’m hopeful him and my dad, Dave finally get to meet and share stories about their daughters. Love to the Robinson family in this truly devastating loss.
Shelby Remillard
Brooklyn, NY