Paul Martin Robinson

Paul Martin Robinson passed away in peace November 22, 2010 in Venice, Florida. “PR” as he was known to his family and friends, was legendary in the restaurant business, both in Kansas City and nationally. He teamed with Joe Gilbert in 1961 to form Gilbert/Robinson which developed restaurants across the country. Known as the “Quiet Man with Big Ideas” he brought a new dimension to the dining experience. One of his most successful concepts was Houlihans Old Place on the Plaza which was instrumental in changing the way people dined. PR and his wife, Edna, traveled extensively throughout Europe purchasing furnishings and fixtures they used in creating a special ambiance in the restaurants he designed. He was an innovator of the “open kitchen” design commonly seen today. Paul was born February 10, 1924 in Enid, Oklahoma, the son of Orman and Faye Robinson. He served in World War II aboard a submarine in the South Pacific. Upon discharge from the Navy, he began his studies in restaurant management at the University of Chicago. He moved to Kansas City in 1950 when he managed the Golden Ox. Honored by virtually every local and national restaurant association, he set the bar for restaurant standards in service, food quality, and attention to detail. He left his legacy with hundreds of managers and employees. Paul and Edna retired to Venice, FL in 1996 where he continued his design and decorating career which culminated in a complete remodeling of Venice Golf and Country Club, of which he was a member, and Stoneybrook Country Club of Sarasota, FL. Paul loved to drive fast cars and always had to have a “little extra” under the hood. He raced Porsches in the vintage class at tracks around the country. He raced until the age of 78, the last time in Sebring, FL, in his Audi TT. He is survived by Edna, his love and traveling companion for 36 years; his children: Cathy Cook (Jim), Rob Martin, and Randy Robinson (Carol) and Karen Byron. His step children, Mary Wheeler (Dan), Liz Shelledy (Steve), Bill Macomber (Cathy) and his sister, Shirley Butts of Taos, NM. Paul’s grandchildren are Chad Lantz, Casey Byron, Katie Byron, William Wheeler, Liz Wheeler, and Julia Wheeler. And of course, Fluffy. A special thanks to Mazie for her love and support.