Robert E. Berry Senior, 1928 - 2018
Born on the 4th of July, Bob Berry Sr. lived an adventurous life full of wonder and curiosity for the world. While known for his remarkable career, Bob always kept his faith and family as his compass. With a heavy heart, we announce his peaceful passing on July 23rd, 2018.
Bob was predeceased by his loving wife of 61 years, Dorothy, and his siblings; Marguerite Prost (Marcel), Charles (Martha), Joseph (Carol) and William Berry.
Robert leaves behind his devoted son, Robert E. Berry Jr., his daughter-in-law Sandra Pollano Berry, his four grandchildren; Renee (Matthew Boitano), Robert Leo (Megan), Andrea, Valentina, and his three great grandchildren; Jude and Reese Boitano, and Pippa Berry.
Born in 1928 in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Robert Emanuel Berry Senior has concluded the 90 beautiful years of life in Los Altos Hills, California. Bob received his Bachelors of Science from Manhattan College and his Masters in Economics from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. He worked his way through college in as a Lab Technician at The City College of New York, and also as a guard for Santa at Macy’s during the holiday season.
Bob served as Lieutenant in the United States Navy before his work as a pioneer in the aerospace industry.
Laying the groundwork for today’s modern communications, Bob’s vision for the future of satellite systems resulted in the development of innovations that have helped people all over the world.
Bob served on the Space Systems Technology Advisory Committee for NASA, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Commercial Space Transportation Advisory Committee and was appointed as the Deputy Director of Defense Research and Engineering under President Gerald Ford.
From 1977-1990, Bob was the general manager of Ford Aerospace’s Space Systems Division. In 1999 he was named president of Space Systems Loral (SSL), and chairman in 1999. Bob served as SVP of Loral Space & Communications until his retirement at the age of 80 in 2008.
Bob led SSL through meteorological satellite projects for defense, civil and commercial applications and played an important part in what is today’s commercial satellite industry.
A Resident of Los Altos Hills since 1978, Bob and his wife Dorothy also lived in London, England, Margate, N.J., Media, PA, Atherton, Laguna Beach and La Jolla, CA.
Bob and Dorothy loved traveling and learning about cultures and traditions from people all over the world. In travel and at home, they loved spending time with people, most especially their beloved friends and family. They were often known as gracious hosts for creative events that included beautiful food and always laughter.
Bob, or “Bibo” as he was affectionately known by his family, was an extraordinary, kind and wise grandfather. His family will always remember his earnest, objective, loving ability to demonstrate thoughtfulness, his patient resolve and his great dedication to his faith. His humble and patient and witty presence will be greatly missed.
In Lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to Immaculate Heart Monastery, 28210 Natoma Rd., L.AH., CA 94022
A Rosary will be held on the evening of Thursday, August 2nd at 7:00 P.M., and a Memorial Mass on the morning of August 3rd at 11:00 A.M. both at St. Nicholas Church, 743 Lincoln Ave., Los Altos, Ca. 94022.
The community is invited to contribute to the Robert Emmanuel Berry Senior memorial website by commenting below and/or sharing stories or reflections with the Berry family to honor the incredible impact Bob has had on so many people.
Please feel free to share this website link: www.roberteberry.com with anyone who may be interested.