Over the weekend of September 27th and 28th, the football community in Sault Ste. Marie suffered a tremendous loss with the passing of Rob Greve. Known by many as one of the kindest and most caring people you could ever meet, Rob left behind a legacy that stretched far beyond the football field.

Saultsports sat down with two of his longtime friends, Jim Corelli and Ray Basawa, who shared stories of Rob’s remarkable character, leadership, and impact on players, coaches, and the broader community.

A Lifelong Friend and Teammate

Jim Corelli knew Rob for over 45 years, as teammates with the Sault Steelers, as coaching and officiating partners, and as friends raising their families side by side. Jim described the qualities that made Rob respected both on and off the field:

• Integrity: Rob stayed principled no matter the circumstances, earning respect by being consistent and fair.

• Commitment to Safety: He always ensured kids were safe, attended to injuries, and removed players from unsafe situations — both physically and psychologically. Rob never tolerated abuse from coaches, fans, or players.

• Friendliness: He was approachable, easy to laugh with, and always kind to youth and families. He celebrated sportsmanship and made sure every young athlete knew they had value.

A Fair and Steady Official

As an official, Rob handled pressure and tough calls with composure and decisiveness. He believed in working as a team with his fellow referees, always striving to get the call right without altering the flow of the game.

That fairness was unwavering, even when it meant ejecting coaches he considered friends. Names like Marty Smith, Ryan Lillington, and Barry Rushon all crossed paths with Rob’s firm but fair officiating. Abuse of referees was never tolerated, and he stood up for his crew at all times.

Rob also inspired younger referees by encouraging athletes he once coached to stay connected to the game through officiating. His example — suiting up season after season, year after year — quietly demonstrated the passion and dedication required to be part of the football community.

Impact on Players and Coaches

Rob’s influence extended deeply into the lives of players and coaches alike. He upheld a culture of respect and camaraderie, leading by example and maintaining high standards. Many athletes remember him as the referee who not only enforced the rules but also encouraged them when they needed confidence.

For the football community, Rob embodied stamina, perseverance, and encouragement — the referee who could run multiple games in a row and still take the time to lift up a young player.

Lessons That Live On

The lessons Rob taught continue to inspire:

• “Low man always wins.”

• “No check steps.”

• “Keep your head on a swivel.”

• “High point the ball.”

• “Know how to exit.”

• “When in doubt, throw the flag — you can always pick it up.”

• “Don’t get tunnel vision.”

These simple, memorable lessons reflected his belief in fundamentals, fairness, and growth.

Beyond Football

Rob’s life wasn’t defined by football alone. He was an adventurer and craftsman who loved to paddle Lake Superior — once covering 300 km to Wawa — and was known to paddle across Goulais Bay to visit friends. He was passionate about woodworking, building chairs, tables, saunas, camps, and even kayaks. He cycled across Vietnam, snorkeled, fished, and always found joy in the outdoors.

As a firefighter, Rob devoted himself to community service, both through his union and through countless quiet acts of generosity. Neighbors remember him as someone who rarely just shoveled his own driveway — he helped everyone around him.

Family was always at the center of his life. He supported his children in sports, traveled with his wife and kids, and treasured every adventure with them.

A Devoted Friend and Mentor

Ray Basawa, who first met Rob almost 40 years ago at Lake Superior State University, remembers his friend as a devoted family man, selfless volunteer, and mentor. The two played touch football together, coached side by side, and built a lifelong friendship through sports.

Ray recalled Rob’s generosity, such as the time a young player couldn’t find size 15 cleats — Rob disappeared for a weekend and returned with the shoes, asking for nothing in return. Stories like that were countless.

“Rob was pure class all the way,” Ray said. “Many leaned on him for advice and mentorship, including my son Will, Alex Christie, and Craig Bovington. He always made time to listen and help.”

Their most recent time together was at Ray’s son’s wedding, where they laughed, reminisced, and shared drinks. “I’m so glad we had that moment,” Ray added. “But sad it will be our last one.”

A Legacy That Lives On

Rob Greve’s memory will live on through his wife Patty, his children Anastasia, Peter, and Danielle, his granddaughter Grace, and the countless lives he touched through his generosity, leadership, and unwavering integrity.

For the football community, he will forever be remembered as more than a coach, referee, or teammate — he was someone who showed what it truly means to care for others, on and off the field.