Former Trenton Mayor Neil Robertson. /City of Quinte West Facebook photo
The City of Quinte West is mourning former long-time Trenton mayor and veteran Neil Robertson, who is also being remembered as a tireless community advocate.
According to his obituary, Francis “Neil” Robertson passed away at age 91 on Tuesday, April 28, 2026.
“Robertson served as a councillor from 1970 to 1974, and again in 1979,” said the city. “He was later appointed mayor of Trenton, serving from 1982 to 1997, and was a dedicated advocate for the community throughout his years of service.”
In his memory and honour, flags at Quinte West City Hall will be lowered on Monday, May 4, the city has announced.
Robertson was born and raised in Trenton, attending St. Peter’s and then Trenton High School. After finishing school, he worked in the CPR shunting yard at Trenton Junction, where his father was also the yardmaster, reads his obituary.
“He soon enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy, working as a radar operator aboard HMCS Iroquois, Magnificent and Quebec during the Korean conflict. Neil was invited to officer training but declined, leaving the navy in 1956 to pursue a career in business.”
Robertson has been described as a tireless contributor to the community, serving in numerous additional leadership roles outside of politics. He was involved with the legion, Kiwanis club, Knights of Columbus, hospital and school boards, the agricultural community, and more. He was also an avid sportsman.
He later relocated to Peterborough, and his final illness has been described as brief.
There will be a visitation this Sunday, May 3 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Ashburnham Funeral Home in Peterborough and then a mass of Christian burial Monday, May 4 at St. Alphonsus Church in Peterborough, with a reception to follow at the church hall. He’ll then be laid to rest Saturday, May 9 at 11 a.m. at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Trenton, with a reception to follow at the Trent Port Marina, according to his obituary, which is accessible here.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
