Robert Middelmann

Robert's months in hospice may have been a way for loved ones to prepare to say goodbye but still a great loss to all who loved him. As Dot's sister, Robert was always so kind and loving to me. I admired Robert for the way he lived his life and shared it with us in his book Fearless - one of my cherished belongings.

My first meeting of him was so gentle and glowing with warmth and love. He exuded love and compassion. I liked him immediately. Seems he liked me too as he gave me a copy of his book that after noon which he signed to me. I cherish this book so much. It was an overnight stop over on my way to Kamloops. Upon my arrival i was warmly welcomed by Dorothy, whom i had not seen for many years. She led me to the living room to meet Robert. I recall making him breakfast the next morning and enjoying our conversation. Bacon and eggs if i recall correctly. He enjoyed it very much. His softness and honesty felt right. I am pleased and honored to have known him even though it was not for a long time. I plan on meeting him in his Peaceland

In 2014, Robert married my mother, Dorothy Beavington. I will always be thankful for the joy Robert brought into my Mom’s life. For me he became a mentor and an example of what good men can do, despite the pain and suffering a cruel world can bring us. To enjoy the wonderful things that life offers us, such as music, hummingbirds and our furry friends, Amor and Mimi. To protect the earth and the family, and to still have fun, despite the hurt and pain. To move forward without bitterness or hatred. To be a good person with a kind heart. His book “Fearless” showed me the capability of a man to rise above selfish needs and through love, kindness and empathy to contribute to a search for peace. Robert gave me his book and wrote “to my son” inside the front cover. I will always grateful for that loving message. I am also grateful for the joy that Mom and Robert shared with our family. Robert has been a light to remind us of the wonder and peace that a good person can bring to this troubled world. He is a modern day true hero.

I didn't know Robert for that long and am honoured I had the opportunity to spend time with he and Dorothy. I will cherish the meals and moments we had together. Robert had an amazing capacity to bring joy and humour to any gathering.I read his book "Fearless", which is so appropriately titled and couldn't put it down once I started it.My heart goes out to Dorothy and the family. Rest well in Peace Land Robert. I know you are there.

I found out that I had an uncle about 10 years ago, thanks to his lovely second wife Dorothy Beavington. Robert was the son of my grandfather and therefore half-brother of my mother Rachel (Rosel) Neuberger (Kilstein). We had numerous conversations during which I found Robert to be extremely funny and smart. It was a pity that Robert was ‘discovered’ in such a late age in his life, and he did not have the chance to meet my mother, but I have to thank Dorothy for taking this initiative and making this connection possible.Although not Jewish by strict Jewish law, Robert insisted he was Jewish and in fact, being obviously familiar with Jewish traits, he had all the attributes: intelligence and abundant curiosity and sense of humor. Not less important, he was a devoted husband and family man, a point that Dorothy repeatedly mentioned.Robert’s (Jewish) mentality was especially prominent within his autobiography: ”Fearless: A Jewish Boy in Nazi Germany”. Although able to avoid extermination as a child of two German Christians, his curiosity, openness and good-hearted behavior drew the attention of some sharp-eyed Germans when Robert raised some suspicion. As a soldier (at age 16 he was drafted to the German air force) he was stationed in an anti-aircraft unit, which also included prisoners of war (POWs) that assisted the German team. There he established close relations with Russian POWs, lent them his guitar, and even spent time singing with them during the nights while learning Russian. This drew the attention of some of his unit members when one warned him: ‘If we did not like you as much, Robert, I would make sure you were sent to where you belong”. His sense of justice did not allow him to join his mother when planning revenge against his (non-biological) father, asking him to sabotage his machinery soon after their divorce. And when his mother told him off for refusing to comply with her request, telling him off: “I don’t know why you are sticking up for him. He’s not even you father” he replied: ”I know. I have known that all my life…when I was four, I heard you and Frau Israel talking in the kitchen…”. Robert was so very smart, not only did he hear this at only 4 years old, but he kept this information to himself for about 15 years, not to destabilize the family.The memoirs that Robert wrote are remarkable, based on phenomenal memory. One trait that can be traced throughout the book is his good, positive and optimistic spirit. I dare to say that I will be highly surprised if he had any true enemies…while planning to visit him and Dorothy, Covid and our protracted war prevented my and my wife’s much desired visit. Unfortunately, we did not make it to Canada. It is a great pity, as we would have so much liked to meet him and his warm lovely wife Dorothy, to whom we wish many years of health, happiness with wonderful memories.As we say, may his soul be rest in peace and his memory thrive – tightly “entangled” in the lives of the living.Giora Kidron (Kilstein)  

On February 9, 2014 it was my great honour and privilege to join Robert and Dorothy in marriage at their home in a caring and special ceremony where each shared the heartfelt , tender and loving vows they had prepared for one another.Blessed be, Robert. Paraphrasing words by George Bernard Shaw - Life was no brief candle to you, but part of a splendid torch that you got hold of and made burn brightly - and you did, shining your light on those whose life you touched. And Dorothy, blessed be to you. I know the precious memories you and Robert created together will forever remain in your heart and, like a beautiful tapestry, wrap you in their love and warmth, giving you strength for the days ahead. Dorothy (Blandford)