Obituary: Remembering Robby Sturgeon

A larger-than-life Ballito character, businessman and husband who would light up a room with his quick wit and charm, Robby Sturgeon of All Kill Ballito was lost to Covid-19 in July at the age of 60.

Known fondly in Ballito, Robby emigrated to the North Coast from Northern Ireland with wife Linda, and children Ian and Zoe in 1992.

With many years of experience in the pest control industry in the United Kingdom, Robby and Linda started up All Kill Pest Control in Ballito, which this year marks its 28th year in business.

Robby could be seen doing the rounds with clients in the distinctive red and white car, covered in ants.

But he was more than just a pest controller, he was an entertaining and talented all-round musician. He was phenomenal on the drums and earlier this year could be seen playing in Biddy McGraw’s Ceili Band with his daughter Zoe.

He was a keen horse rider and inspired a love of horses in his son Ian.

Robby was a great sports shooter, representing the province at shotgun.

Also an avid fly fisherman, he loved to travel, dance and hike with wife, Linda and was in the gym keeping fit and strong nearly every day.

“And there was laughter, so much laughter,” says Linda, who adds that Robby was a loving, and much loved father, grandfather, husband and brother.

He lived a very full life and had many more adventures planned.

It is with this disbelief that someone so vibrant and healthy could have succumbed to Covid-19.

Prior to this, Robby had decided to hand over the reins of All Kill Pest Control to his experienced and hands-on son Ian, who has been running the Hillcrest branch of the business for many years.

Robby trained Ian himself, so clients can rest assured that they will continue to get the best service possible from the All Kill team!

For those who knew and loved Robby, please join us for a celebration of his life – in true Robby style – at the Orchid House, Collisheen Estate, November 12 at 5.30pm.

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