Robert Stuart Marx

August 19, 1930 - May 21, 2023 Husband, father, philanthropist, builder, businessman, Bob Marx was a true Renaissance man. Born in New York City to Helen and Gummo Marx of the famous Marx Brothers, the family moved to California when Bob was seven. Bob graduated Beverly Hills High School, attended USC, and served honorably in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1950-1953.
In the late 1950's and early 1960's he designed and built several homes in Rancho Mirage that have mid-century architectural significance today. Stellar examples of his creative spirit are the Gull Wing Maranz house, the iconic Sputnik house built for his father Gummo Marx as well as the Da Vaal Estates.
He met the love of his life, Gilda, on a blind date in 1972. The two were life long romantic and business partners for fifty plus years, first franchising her Body Design by Gilda exercise studios, next adding their exercise clothing line, Flexatard, and eventually growing into a global international business, Gilda Marx Industries.
Both Bob and Gilda were huge supporters of the City of Hope and its mission starting in the 1980's, with each receiving the "Spirit of Life" award for their efforts. After retirement, Bob worked tirelessly for the City of Hope as Chairman of the Board of Governors and under his leadership they provided over $93 million in funds for cancer research and other scientific endeavors.
Their blended family truly was "Yours, Mine & Ours." Bob loved his big family, was an avid reader, did the crossword puzzle and Sudoku daily, was a history buff, loved his country… and his Dodgers. He was a lifelong tennis player, absolutely loved dogs and was especially known for being kind and magnanimous. He loved to tell a good story, had a way with a joke and could literally strike up a conversation with anyone. Perfect strangers often became lifelong friends.
He was predeceased by his daughter, Tracy Diane Marx. He is survived by his wife of 49+ years, Gilda, sons Gregg Marx, Chris Marx, Mitchell Guzik (Margaret), daughter Laura Guzik, grandchildren Sarah Rose Guzik and Asher Reid Guzik, cousin Bill Marx, as well as many nieces and nephews.
He will be greatly missed.
Services were held at Hillside Memorial Park. In Bob's memory, donations may be made to the City of Hope Board of Governors. www.cityofhope.org/BobMarx