Local actor Mike Robbins stole his final bow on July 29, 2026, after a run of 99 years. Robbins was born in Atlantic City, but fled that gaudy resort at the age of 15 to join the Merchant Marine. During World War II, he served as an Able Seaman and  Quartermaster aboard Liberty Ships, Victory Ships, and tankers in almost every active war zone, receiving awards from the Phillippines and our then-ally Russia, as well as the United States.

       After the War, Mike became an advertising  copywriter and superviser for such agencies as N.W.Ayer, McCann-Erickson and finally, for more than 20 years, Young & Rubicam. Working in Philadelphia, Detroit, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, he created advetising for Goodyear, Chrysler Motors,  Armour Foods and many others, both in the United States and abroad. 

      Mike retired to Carmel and quickly became part of the Peninsula's busy theatre scene, appearing in more than 120 productions over the years. Among his favorite roles were Tevya (Fiddler on the Roof)'' , Harpigon (Molier's The Miser), and Weller (The Gin Game). Offstage, Robbins was proud of his family, especially his remarkable  wife Margaret, who put up with his antics for more that 57 years.  He was blessed with two beautiful and talented daughters, Carolyn Pistone and Joanne Robbins, as well as a charming Granddaughter, Brittany (Yuuki) Pistone.  He had a host of warm friends and acquaintances in the theatre and advertising worlds, a number of whom were able to join him to celebrate his 99th birthday. 

      He leaves all with a fond farewell and an optimistic " See you out there!".