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Robert Massie Obituary

Massie Robert J. Massie, 66, on June 7, 2015 at his home in Columbus, Ohio. Predeceased by his parents Franklin and Genevieve, and his brother Anthony. Survived by his wife, Ruth; children, Jim (Linda), Nana (Justin), and Jackie (Ryan); and his grandsons, Davy, Sam, Jonathan, and Jamie. Bob was born in Queens, New York and raised in New Jersey. He received his honors BA from Yale College and his JD/MBA from Columbia University, where he was a Harlan Fiske Stone scholar. After graduation, he practiced law in Iran, then returned to Washington to practice at the firm of Covington and Burling. He then moved to New York as a management consultant with McKinsey & Co. In the 1980s he held senior executive positions with Torstar Corporation, the largest newspaper and book publishing company in Canada. He returned to the U.S. as President and CEO of Gale Research and in 1992 moved to Columbus, Ohio, to lead Chemical Abstracts Service, where he served as President until his retirement in March 2014. Bob was committed to contributing to the community, serving on the boards of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, the Chamber of Commerce, COSI, Children's Hospital, and the Columbus School for Girls. He chaired the board of the Columbus Technology Leadership Council, was one of the founding chairs of Tech Columbus, and also served on the boards of a number of technology companies. He was Chairman of the Operating Board of the James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute. Among his awards and recognitions are the International Patent Information Award, the Miles Conrad Award, the Patterson-Crane Award, the Executive of the Year award from the Industry and Technology Council of Central Ohio, the 2014 Hope Award from the James Cancer Hospital, an Honorary Fellowship from the NFAIS, and an Honorary Doctorate from Franklin University conferred in spring 2015. Bob was an extremely talented writer and speaker, a gifted linguist, and a lifelong student of history. He was a talented musician with a beautiful singing voice, an enthusiastic bridge player, a skilled golfer, and a mentor and advisor to many in the Columbus business community. His extraordinary intellect, keen wit, integrity, and kindness earned him the respect and admiration of all who knew him. A private interment will take place at Green Lawn Cemetery. A memorial service will be held at the Hilton Columbus at Easton on Wednesday, June 17 at 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to EPSTEIN MEMORIAL CHAPEL.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Columbus Dispatch from Jun. 7 to Jun. 10, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Massie

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Jayne Byer

June 1, 2021

I knew Nana when this happened. He died too young. Ill always say a prayer every year for him. He was an extraordinary man.

March 26, 2019

Dear Massie Family Members,
I just now learned of Bob's passing and wanted to extend my condolences to all of you.
I was a mentor to Bob during his youthful years at Covington & Burling. This was a time of true collegiality at the firm, when bonds grew strong between and among attorneys across lines of age, experience, areas of practice. Bob was held in high esteem and affection by all of us who knew him. Bob was blessed with a great and inquiring mind, a wonderful sense of humor a sunny disposition, a warm and caring manner for his colleagues and the staff. It was heart-warming to read just now how full and meaningful a later life he led. Sincerely, Michael A. Schlanger

December 18, 2015

I had the honor of taking care of Bob while he was in the hospital. He was a memorable man; charismatic, charming, and funny. Out of all my patients I've taken care of, Bob is one of the ones I will not forget. So sorry for your loss.

Karen (Lambo)Choronzey

October 3, 2015

Dear Ruth,
I wanted to look you up to see what and where you had put down roots. I am so sorry to read of your loss. It would take a special man to engage with your own many talents, and Rob sounded like this type of husband. My thoughts are with you, and if you are ever back this way, I would love to get together.Sincerely, Karen (Lambo) now Choronzey (Oakville Ontario). Our number is available through directory assistance. Sending prayers your way.

Bob Wenger

June 30, 2015

Bob and I were best childhood friends. We met in 7th grade at Montclair Academy and went to law school together. We were literally inseparable. When I moved to Washington in 1976, I lived with him for six months. We were best friends for over 25 years and each other's primary confidante. Sadly, over the last many years, we drifted apart. I hoped and expected we were going to reconnect but alas, not meant to be. I briefly met his children when they were young on a trip to Williamsburg and learned of Ruth when they first met. I was like another son to his parents as he was to mine. I will always have my memories of our many years together.

Linda Harris

June 27, 2015

To the family, just know that Bob was a very special individual that was "total perfection" as a human being, friend, leader, etc. He had lived in my daughter's neighborhood. He always had a smile and warm hearted
"hello". Rest in peace dear sweet man.
Linda M. Harris, Retired CAS Employee

Moris Niknam

June 19, 2015

Bob was one of the kindest person I have ever met. He always had time for his employees no matter at what level or department. My prayers for his family members. He will be missed greatly.

Clarence Davis Jr

June 12, 2015

My condolences and prayers go out to the family of Mr. Massie. As a security officer for CAS during his tenure, he was a gracious leader and very kind. He will be missed. He is with Jesus and He is telling Mr. Massie "Job Well Done!"
Former CAS Security Officer
Clarence Davis Jr

Mark Lynch

June 10, 2015

By *far* the smoothest, sharpest executive I've ever met. And he introduced me to sushi! A great loss for all concerned, my sympathies to family. Bob is sorely missed.

Darrell Gunter

June 10, 2015

Bob was a very kind executive whom I had the pleasure of having breakfast with him at an Outsell Event. He was very approachable and forth coming. He was one of the industry's Giants!

Ford Khorsandian

June 9, 2015

Bob was charming, charismatic, visionary, and a very strategic & strong leader. His contribution to the scientific information community was immense. Bob's news is extremely sad, and he will be remembered by many.

Becky Pugh

June 9, 2015

I had to work a couple of years ago on Christmas Eve and Bob came around with a cart of chocolates giving everyone a box and thanking us for working that day. He looked me in the eye and shook my hand very sincerely. I knew he meant it. He was a great guy and will truly be missed. My deepest sympathy to his family and friends.

June 9, 2015

This is a truly sad loss. We can't imagine how difficult these days must be for you. We couldn't have had better neighbours than you folks, and always enjoyed seeing you and Bob next door and out for your long walks. Although we didn't see Bob as often as we would have liked, we will miss him.

Glane and Kathy, Prospect, Nova Scotia

ART & MARY MUISE

June 8, 2015

Dear Ruth and Family ,Mary and I will always hold in our Hearts the Fond memories of your Dear Bob when you spent happy loving times together here in your lovely home in Prospect Nova Scotia Canada. God love you both

Randi Bova

June 8, 2015

So sorry for your loss. Saying prayers for Mr. Massie's family. He was a compassionate man. One day, years ago, I was at the Columbus Airport seeing my career Army son off to one of his destinations, when Mr. Massie walked by and recognized me as an employee of CAS. He was so kind. This very busy man stopped and said hello, introduced himself to my son and wished him well. It touched my heart so much I will never forget it. I was just a regular employee, not a manager or supervisor.

Joseph Sofia

June 8, 2015

Very sad to hear about Bob's passing. He was a great man and I will remember fondly.

Nancy Smith

June 8, 2015

Mr. Massie was a pleasure to work with and especially to listen to. We laughed at his meetings and recanted his funny stories. He will be missed by all he touched. We were so fortunate for his leadership at Chemical Abstracts, and under his leadership, he made it a place we could all be proud to say we had a career. My thoughts and prayers to his family.

Jane Morley

June 8, 2015

Ruth: Bob was kind and good, funny and wise. I am better for having known him. Deepest condolences from Walter and me. Jane

Jackie Osborne

June 8, 2015

So sorry to hear of this tragic loss. Mr. Massie was a great man. Condolences to the family.

Jose Chaires

June 8, 2015

May our Lord bless and comfort you and your family during this time of grief. Please accept my sincere condolences.

Kathy Landes

June 8, 2015

My heartfelt sympathy to Ruth, Jackie and the entire Massie family. My daughter Lisa and I had the pleasure of meeting & speaking with Bob & Ruth in 2014. Our conversation was brief, but it was evident what a kind & caring man Bob was. Lisa had the pleasure of meeting Jackie at a later date and felt that same kindness & caring. I am so very truly sorry for your loss and will hold your family in my thoughts & prayers.

Robin Smith

June 8, 2015

Mr. Massie was a great leader at Chemical Abstracts. He was very kind and always said hi to everyone he saw. My thoughts and prayers are with the family in this time of loss.

Bruce Slutsky

June 8, 2015

I had the pleasure of meeting Bob Massie a few times at American Chemical Society Meetings. He was certainly an asset to his organization and profession. My condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues

Jayne Byer

June 8, 2015

Nana,
I am so sorry about your dad. He was so accomplished and did so much in his lifetime. I remember at FIS,when you found out about his illness. My prayers were with him then and they are with him now. I know what it is like to lose a parent to this hideous disease. My deepest sympathy to you and Justin. Take your time to grieve as much and for as long as you want.. My thoughts are with you now and will be...
My best, Jayne Byer

Henry Chan

June 8, 2015

My deepest sympathy to Ruth and the family. It was my privilege to work for him during his Torstar years. He was an extremely talented and considerate person. May God give strength and courage to the family members.

Shirley Eckenrode

June 8, 2015

He was a wonderful man and a great leader. Prayers for his family and friends.

Patricia Dedert

June 8, 2015

I had the pleasure of working with Bob for a number of years as a member of the American Chemical Society's Committee on Chemical Abstracts Service. His passion for the good of CAS was always evident, and his articulate and thoughtful comments, with historical context and anecdotes, were a pleasure to hear. My sincere condolences go out to his family.

Gary White

June 8, 2015

My deepest sympathy is going out for the loss of Mr. Massie. I will keep the family and him in my prayers. He was our president at CAS.

June 8, 2015

Dear Ruth, I am so sorry. Bob was funny, smart and kind and you two were meant for each other.
Donna Hayes

Eileen Shanbrom

June 8, 2015

Ruth and family,
May it somehow comfort you to know that many mourn his loss; and pray to give you all strength to get through this time. May you rest in peace Bob knowing that your short time on this earth was a job well done!

June 8, 2015

May your soul rest in peace. May God give strength and courage to the family members.

Bo Swiger

June 8, 2015

Bob Massie was a great leader at CAS. I enjoyed Picnic with the Pops, Peltonia, and much more due to his genuine interest in the community. He always made a point to say hi in passing at work. Wished I would have had the opportunity to hear his musical talents. My condolences to his family.

June 7, 2015

Sending my condolences to the family. May God give you strength and peace during this difficult time (Psalm 29:11)

June 7, 2015

Our deepest sympathy to the family of Bob Massie.

Peggy and Merle Amlin (Michelle's mom and dad)

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