Robert Zentaro Ubukata, DVM

Mar 12, 2025

Robert "Bob" Ubukata died comfortably on March 1, 2025, at the age of 89.

Bob was born in Toronto; he was the son of Terry Ubukata and Ruby Ubukata (White).

Bob attended Forest Hill Collegiate. From a young age, he had a passion for reading, writing, and dissecting literature. He went to University of Toronto for a Literary Arts Degree with the intent to pursue a degree in journalism to give a voice to the marginalized.

Bob was sharp minded and quick witted. He valued critical thinking and its ability to protect humanity. Question assumptions, the importance of exposure, and to challenge when necessary. Bob was resilient.

Bob had an appreciation for all animals, especially the exotic species. He decided to pursue a degree in Veterinary Medicine. During a pre-admission placement prior to Veterinary College, on a farm in Kincardine, Bob met the love of his life, Marjorie. He graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 1962 and married the same year.

Bob devoted himself to veterinary medicine and his many clients. He was a dedicated, knowledgeable, and compassionate veterinarian. He was known for his fair practice and had a rewarding career of small animal medicine in Toronto, Bolton, and Cloyne for over 45 years. Bob demonstrated professionalism by his commitment to lifelong learning. He cherished the bond between humans and animals, unconditional love and friendship, and realized that pets are valued family members. Bob was always rescuing animals in need and nurturing them back to good health.

Bob was an avid sports fan. He observed and participated in several sports, his favorites included basketball, baseball, football, and hockey. Bob played in the Bolton Ruins hockey league for years, and was known on the ice as "Rocket Ubukata." He was a die-hard Toronto Maple Leafs supporter for decades.

Bob had a fondness for the outdoors and spending time in nature, his summer vacations always included fishing in northern Ontario. Bob had a deep and lasting love for his wife, Marjorie. He was honourable, their partnership based on mutual respect. He was a devoted father
to his three children. Bob was treasured by his family. His wife, Marjorie Ubukata (Ackert), of 62 years; his daughter, Kim Ubukata; his son, Richard Ubukata (predeceased); his daughter, Karen Maw (Ubukata); his son-in-law, Terry Maw; and his grandson, Quinten Maw. Bob is
fondly remembered by his brothers-inlaw, sisters-in-law, nephew and several nieces.

Bob left a lasting impression to those who were fortunate enough to have known him. He was most admired for his terrific sense of humour.

We love you and will miss you dearly.

Thank you to Cheltenham Community Care and the staff who cared for Bob during the final years of his life.

As expression of sympathy, donations to the Heart and Stroke foundation would be appreciated by the family.