Robert Fairchild Obituary

FAIRCHILD--Robert F., of New York and Quogue died suddenly on February 16th, after enjoying a wonderful weekend fishing on his boat, The Grand Cru. Beloved father of Stephanie and Roger Griswold, Suzie and Bruce Kovner, Samantha and Chris Storkerson, Serena and Tyler Sheldon; cherished grandfather of Caroline, Olivia, Liam, Oscar, Roger, and Margaux. Born and raised in New York City, Bob graduated from the University of Pennsylvania and went to work for the family's firm, Fairchild Publications. Bob joined The House of Burgundy in 1971, and is the President and Chief Executive Officer. In May of 1994, he founded the Maison des Grands Crus, in Santenay, France. On July 16, 1987 in recognition of his efforts on behalf of French wines, Bob was made a Chevalier of the Ordre du Merite Agicole, by the French Parliament. Bob is a member of the Board of Overseers of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, and the Board of Trustees of the Avon Old Farms School. A former member of the Board of Governors of the Union League Club of New York, he also belongs to the Leash Club of New York, Bath and Tennis Club of Palm Beach, Quogue Field Club and Quogue Beach Club and the Long Island Wyandanch Club. Family will receive friends on Thursday, 7-9pm and Friday 2-4pm and 7-9pm at Frank E. Campbell, 1076 Madison Avenue at 81st Street. Funeral service will be held on Saturday at 10:30am at St. Thomas More, 89th Street (between Madison and Park Avenues). In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine or Avon Old Farms School.

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Published by New York Times on Feb. 19, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Fairchild

6 Entries

Christian Rahon

February 21, 2009

Mr. Fairchild will remain for me a charismatic man with human high qualities. Kind, nice, available and on the listening of a lot of people, he distinguished itself by his big simplicity and his desire to live every moment intensely.
I feel a big pride today to work beside him during these excess short 15 years within the "Maison des Grands Crus" in Santenay in the heart of Burgundy, region which he liked so much.
I remember reminding him so often that I would so have to like speaking about English as well as he could speak French and he answered me friendly by smiling : " It is only a matter of time ... but for you it will take a long time ! "
I shall always have happy memories of this endearing man and I wish his family and especially Stephanie, Suzie, Samantha and Serena to find in these some words the testimony of all my friendship and the necessary comfort to bear this painful event.

Sheila & Keith McWilliams

February 20, 2009

Dear Stephanie, Suzie, Sam, Serena & families,
We are so sorry for your loss. You are and will continue to be in our thoughts & prayers. We pray that your father's life will be honored by all he loved, his memory cherished for all he gave, and your hearts comforted by all you shared.
Love, Sheila & Keith

Jaqueline Brown

February 20, 2009

Allen-Stevenson extends its deepest sympathy to the members of the Fairchild family.

Jackie Brown, Alumni Relations

Bob Straus

February 19, 2009

A friend, a classmate, a fraternity brother. A man who truly enjoyed life and lived his dreams. He always showed his regard for those he knew and those who knew him. Our last visit last Fall was, as always, the catalyst for great memories. Canterbury reunion???

Sonia Sanchez

February 19, 2009

I always remember Mr. Fairchild as a genuine chevalier, a man well poised and of excellent manners and human qualities. I had the pleasure of sharing with him while working with Baron Philippe de Rothschild. My sincere condolences to all his family.

Stanley Tobin

February 19, 2009

Bob was an accomplished businessman, a gentleman and above all a nice nice man. He was also possessed of great angling skill and known for the exceptional hospitality and meals aboard "The Grand Cru". He was a large presence in the fishing world. He will be sadly missed by many in the fishing community and in particular by the Masters International Angling Tournament, which he participated in for many years.

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