In Memory of Robbie Philpot

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden and tragic passing of one of our jiu-jitsu family members, Robert Wayne Philpot, on September 23, 2019, at the age of 32.

As Robbie's jiu-jitsu family, we are hosting a celebration of life on behalf of his mother, Karen. As you may know, the costs associated with someone passing can quickly rise and we would like to cover the costs for Karen. Robbie's celebration of life will be at the Marcus Soares Jiu-Jitsu Academy #105 - 11517 Kingston Street, Maple Ridge on Saturday, October 19th at 2 pm with a bonfire to follow. This is a time for all of us to be together, along with Robbie's friends and family, to celebrate and remember him for the kind-hearted person he truly was.

Robbie was a passionate jiu-jitsu practitioner for the past 7 years and had earned his blue belt with one stripe from Master Marcus Soares. He suffered from epilepsy and would have frequent seizures, making the journey to achieve his blue belt that much harder. He would often signal to the instructor that he needed to step off the mat during these seizures and took the time to recover -- it was apparent that he understood how his body worked but the seizures didn't stop him. Robbie didn't allow his condition to be his crutch, instead, he chose to push the limits.

Sometimes in life we need to play the cards we are dealt, and with Robbie, he was all in. Even when Robbie held himself back from stepping onto the mat, he would go over to the back of the gym and do his own mini-workout, lifting weights. Robbie always found a way to put in work, riding his bike everywhere, probably listening to Nickleback blasting in his earphones.   

Robbie had a larger than life personality, only to be outdone by his infectious laughter and kind heart. He will be remembered for his many selfless acts of kindness and involvement in the community through his volunteer work, including teaching the kids jiu-jitsu and helping fundraise for kids with challenges to attend Eureka Camp. 

The jiu-jitsu gym was Robbie's second home and it is the perfect place to celebrate Robbie. We know he would have wanted it this way. Please find it in your heart to give a little to the man that gave it his all!

Robbie, you will always be remembered and held in such high regard. Your life will be honoured and your memory will be kept close in our hearts and thoughts. Rest in peace.

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