Robert Kenneth Irving, the co chief executive officer of J.D. Irving Limited, died in Moncton following a battle with cancer. The Irving family announced his passing, marking the end of a nearly fifty year career in the family business.

A Life Rooted in Saint John and Moncton

If you live in New Brunswick, you recognize the impact of the Irving family on the local economy. Born in Saint John on December 3, 1954, Robert grew up as the second oldest son of James Kenneth and Jean Elizabeth Saunders Irving. He built a strong foundation in the family enterprise from a young age. After earning a business degree from Acadia University, he established the Moncton operations for J.D. Irving Limited in 1977. He made Moncton his home and spent decades expanding the company across various sectors.

Robert worked closely with his brother Jim to guide the long term vision of the business. He built successful operations in paper products, food processing, agriculture and transportation. He believed in hands on leadership. He often repeated a quote from his father, noting that the best fertilizer is the farmer’s footsteps in the soil. He preferred spending time on the manufacturing floor or in the fields rather than sitting in an office.

Community Leadership and Sports

Beyond his corporate achievements, Robert transformed the local sports landscape. He founded the Moncton Wildcats Hockey Club in 1996. Under his ownership, the team secured three QMJHL championships and hosted the Memorial Cup in 2006. He built strong relationships with the players and frequently told them that once a Wildcat, always a Wildcat.

His commitment to the community extended into healthcare and youth development. He served as the campaign chair to build the Jean Elizabeth Saunders Irving Obstetrics and Newborn Care Unit at the Moncton Hospital. His philanthropic efforts earned him numerous accolades. He received the Order of Moncton, the Order of New Brunswick and inductions into the New Brunswick Business Hall of Fame, the Canadian Agriculture Hall of Fame and the PEI Business Hall of Fame.

Family and Legacy

Robert is survived by his wife of nearly forty years, Jill, and their four children: Megan, Meredith, Olivia and R.J. He is also survived by four grandchildren. In recent years, he found great pride in working alongside Meredith, Olivia and R.J. in the family business. You will see his legacy continue through his children and the many lives he touched.

The family will announce funeral arrangements at a later date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Robert K. Irving?

Robert K. Irving served as the co chief executive officer of J.D. Irving Limited. He operated as a prominent business leader and philanthropist born in Saint John and based in Moncton.

What businesses did he oversee?

He established and grew successful businesses in paper products, food processing, agriculture and transportation for J.D. Irving Limited.

What was his connection to the Moncton Wildcats?

He founded the Moncton Wildcats Hockey Club in 1996 and remained a dedicated owner and supporter of the team.