Aylmer mourns the sudden passing of kitesurfer Robson Florentino

Jude Osmond

Robson Florentino, age 37, was found deceased on May 31 after a tragic paddleboarding accident.  Florentino was an avid water enthusiast; with his experience in kitesurfing and paddleboarding, there was never a day he didn’t want to be out on the water.

He was a beloved member of the kitesurfing community in Ottawa and the Gatineau region. Louis Levert, who is also a member of the kitesurfing community and a friend of Robson, said they had been kitesurfing together for four years. He told the Bulletin that he was one of the most cheerful people to be around: “Robson was always very optimistic, very joyful and very positive about life,” he said.

“Robson was a truly special addition to the kitesurfing community,” said Sylvain Bourdeau, president of the kitesurfing and windsurfing association. “After taking lessons with our local pro, Louis Levert, three winters ago, he instantly became part of the crew. It felt effortless — his energy, kindness, and love for the sport naturally brought people together.”

Florentino had put together a drywall taping business. “He was at a stage in his life where he was appreciating the freedom that his work provided him,” Levert said.

Florentino’s impact on the kitesurfing community was well known, as he had just spent six months in Brazil teaching kitesurfing and was always taking lessons and participating at the Aylmer Marina.  “Kitesurfing had become his new passion; he loved being on the water and paddleboarding with his dog,” Levert added.

He was working on becoming an instructor here in the region, as he and Levert have been helping others learn kitesurfing and were always ready to help someone learn the ropes.

The kitesurfing community in Gatineau and Ottawa is mourning his loss. To remember him, a memorial was placed at the Aylmer Marina to mourn his loss.

“His passing is deeply felt by everyone who knew him. The beach, the sessions, and the community will not feel quite the same without him. We will miss him dearly,” said Bourdeau.