Robin Darryl Gainsford

It is with profound sadness and shattered hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Robin Gainsford, aged 64, on January 20th, 2026. His departure was swift and unexpected, the result of complications from undiagnosed colon cancer.

Robin Gainsford was born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa, by his parents, Neville and Maureen Gainsford. From a young age, Robin showed discipline and determination, excelling as an athlete, playing, coaching and watching rugby, a sport he loved passionately. At just 18 years old, he served in the South African Army during the Angolan War. He then went on to graduate from Germiston Technical College with a degree in Electrical Engineering. In 1989, he moved to the United States and built a long and accomplished career in the telecommunications industry.

Robin was a devoted husband and father whose love, passion, and care for his family knew no bounds. In 1999, he married the love of his life, Liz. Together, they built a life and family that cherished traveling together, scuba diving adventures, and working side by side on projects at home. He was the proud father of Stella and Leila, whose academic, musical, and athletic achievements brought him immense pride and joy. He was a pillar of strength, an avid surf fisherman, a source of endless dad jokes, and the person everyone turned to when something needed fixing.

The majority of Robin's professional career was spent with Superior Essex Communications, where he served for nearly 30 years leading both Sales and Product Development teams. His expertise in electrical and radio frequency

engineering, combined with his leadership and integrity, left an indelible mark on Superior Essex and the telecommunications industry.

Perhaps Robin's most endearing trait was his infectious personality. His sincerity, humor, and goodhearted nature were appreciated by all who knew him. His presence was truly larger than life. Robin is survived by his wife Liz, his daughters Stella and Leila, his brothers Gavin and Darryl, and their wives Sue and Tanya. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of Robin Gainsford's life will be announced at a later date.

In light of the sudden nature of his passing, the family encourages everyone to prioritize their health and get colonoscopy screenings. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance to help others fight the battle he didn't have the chance to.