Robert J. von Dohlen

Robert John von Dohlen, 94, of Bloomfield, CT, passed away May 18, 2023. An architect whose firm, Russell Gibson von Dohlen, shaped Hartford's skyline in the 1980-90's, Bob spent his career serving on many local and national boards to advance best architectural practices. Born in Brooklyn, NY, where he acquired his trademark wit, Bob attended Brooklyn Technical High School, then went on to Cornell University, where he rowed crew, earned his Architecture degree, and most importantly, met his beloved future wife, Elizabeth Anne Robinson. After serving in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, he returned to Cornell to complete a Masters in Regional Planning, then settled with Beth in West Hartford, CT in 1954. Bob and Beth embraced their new city, raising three daughters and contributing time and energy to Hartford's cultural institutions. Bob designed the family home in West Hartford, where they spent many decades. He rose to a leadership role at Russell Gibson von Dohlen in 1972, and later served as president of the CT Architectural Registration Board. On a national level, he became vice president of the AIA National Board of Directors and was named an AIA Fellow in 1983. He loved to fly-fish with his family at their cabin in NH and collect new wines with Beth on their worldwide travels. After 69 years of marriage, Bob lost Beth in 2022.

He is survived by his three loving daughters: Gail (Smith), Joyce (Sidman) and Carol; grandchildren Eli, Brian, Gabriel, Russell, Clara and Ethan; and great grandchildren Raymond, Lee and Milo. Memorial services will be private. Carmon Funeral Home is in care of his arrangements. To leave an online message of condolence for his family, please visit www.carmonfu neralhome.com.