ROBERT SINCLAIR

Sinclair, Robert Ross, born at home in York, New York on May 28, 1920, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2012; just two weeks shy of his 92nd birthday. He graduated from Greigsville High School in New York, in 1938. Bob received a Bachelor of Science degree in Ceramic Engineering at Alfred University in 1943, where he was president of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity. He served in the Navy during WWII as an officer aboard an LSM 9. Introduced to the love of his life by his commanding officer, he married Patsy Murphy in the Navy Chapel in Norfolk, VA, in 1946, where Patsy soon convinced him to settle in Inglewood, CA. Bob co-founded Pyro Engineering Company in 1959 until he and his partner sold the company and subsequently began his retirement in 1986, ultimately settling in Laguna Niguel, CA.

Bob and Patsy had two children, Bob, Jr. (Robin) and Robin Cordle (deceased in 2009). He leaves behind an older sister, Janet, younger brother John (Mary) and sister Ann, all currently residing in New York. Bob, a lifelong "turtle" and man of service, held leadership positions with many organizations: American Foundry Society, American Society of Metallurgical Engineers, American Ceramic Society, California Historical Society, The Botanical Society, Inglewood Presbyterian Church, Laguna Beach Presbyterian Church, El Niguel Country Club and later at The Covington, where he lived for 8 years following the death of his beloved Patsy. He was a member of Rotary, Kiwanis, YMCA, Shriners, and the Masonic Lodge. Bob was a stranger to no one- and was a treasured Grandpa to Blake (Jennifer) Sinclair, Cameron Sinclair, Robert Ross Sinclair III, Evan Sinclair, Robert Cordle, and Great-Grandpa to Olive Francis Sinclair. He was a true gentleman- with impeccable manners, always pulling chairs out for any ladies in his presence, and was a living example of integrity and honesty. An avid fisherman and ambitious golfer (he saved every score card), he and Patsy traveled the world where they enjoyed their multitude of friends and most importantly their time together. His collection of plaids and prints (often worn at the same time) was second to none. A voracious reader and a lover of "routines," his recollections of his navy days and his and Patsy's many golf trips provided many colorful stories in which to share with his kids and grandchildren. His annual holiday letters were sent to and looked forward to by hundreds of close family members and friends. Bob will never be forgotten as his gracious spirit will truly live with us all forever.

A private burial will be held at Inglewood Park Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest beside his wife. Please contact the family for details regarding a celebration of life, being held in Newport Beach in June. At the family's request, donations can be made to Alfred University, Laguna Niguel Presbyterian Church, Laguna Beach Presbyterian Church, or a charity of your choice.