In Memory of Edward Lowell Robbins, FSA, MAAA

Edward L. Robbins, FSA, MAAA, passed away peacefully on Dec. 28, 2020, following a brief illness. Robbins was born in New York City in 1940 and grew up in New Rochelle, NY.

After graduating from Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations in 1961 and serving as an officer in the U.S. Army, he embarked on a nearly six-decade career as an actuary during which he worked with distinction at several companies.

Robbins was a valuable member and volunteer of the Society of Actuaries (SOA). He became a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries (FSA) in 1971 and was elected SOA President for the 2006 —2007 term. He was a worldwide ambassador for the SOA and the actuarial profession, having served on the  International Policy Committee; as the SOA representative with the International Actuarial Association; and on the North American Actuarial Council. Robbins was a member of the SOA Latin America Committee, where he used his excellent Spanish language skills to present seminars and talks throughout Latin America. 

Seeking to shape the future of the profession he loved, Robbins was also an active member of the SOA Nominating Committee and the Strategic Planning Steering Committee. He served on the American Academy of Actuaries Board of Directors, as Chairperson of the SOA’s Taxation Section Council and as a Fellowship Admissions Course (FAC) facilitator for multiple FACs.

Robbins lived a full life and will be deeply missed for his strength of character, his love of nature, his enjoyment of folk music, and his devotion to family and friends.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Dian, sons Douglas Robbins (Theresa) and Thomas Robbins, daughter Elaine Robbins Kleinfeld (Jeffrey), and grandchildren Micah Robbins, Abigail Robbins, Linda Kleinfeld, and Jonathan Kleinfeld. Dear brother of Mark Robbins, William Robbins, the late Linda Robbins Levine and the late Bruce Robbins.

A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. Contributions in his memory may be made to Sycamore Land Trust, PO Box 7801, Bloomington, IN 47407, or to The Land Conservancy of McHenry County, 4622 Dean Street, PO Box 352, Woodstock, IL 60098, on whose board he served.