The City of Ottawa is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Robyn Guest, the Chief of Staff in the Mayor’s Office, who passed away after a courageous battle with a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Her passing has left a profound void in City Hall and throughout the broader community she served with such dedication, integrity, and compassion.

In a touching tribute, Ottawa’s Mayor expressed deep sorrow over the loss, sharing, “I’m devastated and heartbroken to share some very sad news: Robyn Guest, the Chief of Staff in the Mayor’s Office, passed away yesterday from a rare and aggressive form of cancer.”

The Mayor described Robyn as “brilliant, compassionate, and thoughtful,” emphasizing that she was indispensable to the success and function of the Mayor’s Office. Her ability to lead with empathy, strategy, and vision made her one of the most respected and beloved figures in municipal government.

Robyn’s career at Ottawa City Hall spanned over 20 years, during which she dedicated herself to public service and the betterment of the city she loved. She worked tirelessly to make Ottawa a more inclusive, connected, and forward-thinking community.

Her leadership style was marked by collaboration, integrity, and a deep commitment to the people she served. Whether behind the scenes shaping city policy or guiding her team through complex decisions, Robyn’s influence was always felt and deeply appreciated.

Those who worked with Robyn remember her as not only an exceptional professional but also a warm, genuine, and caring person. She was the kind of leader who listened first, offered thoughtful guidance, and inspired everyone around her to do their best work.

Her colleagues have shared that she possessed a rare blend of intellect and heart — a combination that made her both an exceptional Chief of Staff and a cherished friend.

The Mayor further shared his condolences, saying, “It was a great honour and privilege to work with her. Ginny and I, along with all of Robyn’s colleagues in the Mayor’s Office and throughout City Hall, are grieving with her family: her husband Chris, her children Devyn and Quinlan, her brother Brian, and her granddaughter Elly.”

Outside of her professional life, Robyn was a devoted wife, mother, sister, and grandmother. Her family was the center of her world, and her love for them was evident in all she did. Despite her demanding career, she always made time for those she loved, cherishing every moment with her family.

Robyn’s passing is not only a loss for City Hall but for the entire city of Ottawa. Her dedication, compassion, and vision have left a lasting legacy that will continue to shape the community she worked so hard to improve. “Ottawa is truly a better place, in many different ways, because of Robyn,” the Mayor concluded. “We will miss her deeply.”

Robyn Guest’s life will be remembered as one defined by service, leadership, and love — a shining example of what it means to dedicate oneself fully to both family and community.