Robert Woodville Kite

1926 - 2021

June 12, 1926 - January 31, 2021 Robert "Bob" passed away peacefully at the age of 94. He was the only child born to Leone and George Kite in Los Angeles, where he was raised. He graduated from LA High in 1943 before joining the Navy during WWII. Upon returning, Bob attended UCLA and married Charmaine Dabney Neth. Bob was a gifted artist and had a passion for design. In 1952, he graduated from the USC School of Architecture. Bob and Charmaine purchased a lot in Sherman Oaks and built their first home, where they raised three children. A former member of the Bel Air Bay Club, Bob was an avid body surfer and skier, always encouraging his family to enjoy his passions alongside him. Sadly, the family experienced Charmaine's unexpected passing in 1972.In the early 60's, Bob founded the firm Kite and Overpeck Architects in Beverly Hills. The firm was credited with creating some of the most iconic architecture in Los Angeles and beyond: the 9000 Sunset Building, The Beverly Hillcrest Hotel, The Standard Insurance Building at La Cienega and Wilshire, Wallichs Music City, and the original Ontario Motor Speedway. Bob served as the 1971-1972 Business and Industry Chairman for the March of Dimes. Bob met and married D'Lauren Nazzaro Throop and they melded a loving blended family. They settled in the Pacific Palisades, where they raised their three younger boys. Eventually, they moved to their beloved Lake Arrowhead, where they lived for 20 years. In his semi-retirement, Bob continued his professional practice. He was responsible for: the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Fire Station, the Crest Forest Fire Station, a 22,000 square foot professional office building on the former site of the Ice Castle skating rink, and a comprehensive renovation of the Lake Arrowhead Resort. A wise, witty, soft spoken and loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, Bob will be hugely missed by his adoring family. Bob is survived by his wife of 46 years, D'Lauren; his children Lorie Palmer (Greg), Brian Kite, Bobby Kite (Rhonda), Dane Throop (Norma), (Christian Throop-deceased); his grandchildren: Hilary Rehder (Erik), Elizabeth Kervella (David), Sean Kite, Alyssa Kite, Trevor Throop, Jessica Throop, and Hunter Throop; and six great grandchildren: Caroline, Will, Charlie, Ethan, Ryan and Thomas.