Robert Adrian Bracamonte

We mourn the passing of Robert A. Bracamonte, affectionately known as "Bob" in his professional life, a distinguished leader in Design and Project Leadership, devoted husband, loving father, and cherished grandfather, who died peacefully on November 17, 2025, just weeks shy of his 74th birthday. His life, marked by creativity, dedication, and a profound love for his family and Mexican heritage, leaves an indelible legacy of innovation and compassion. Born in Tucson, Arizona, on December 10, 1951, Robert developed a passion for design that defined his professional life.
Education and Early Career
He was a proud alumnus of the University of Arizona, where he attained a Bachelor degree with Distinction from the College of Architecture in 1974, graduating in the top 3 of his class. His career began in Tucson before he relocated to San Francisco in 1989. His professional achievements were recognized in 2016 with the esteemed honor of the FAIA (Fellow of the American Institute of Architects) distinction, a testament to his excellence and impact on the built environment.
A Distinguished Career in Design and Project Leadership
Bob's professional success stemmed from his love of working with people and figuring things out-a hallmark of his career in design and complex project leadership. His impressive career focused heavily on medical and high-technology facilities across several major firms:
Anderson, Debartolo Pan, Inc. (ADP) | Tucson, AZ & San Francisco, CA | July 1979 – Oct 1995 | Design Principal
Ehrlich Rominger | Palo Alto, CA | October 1995 – Aug 1999 | Project Manager & Project Designer
HDR | Mountain View, CA | Aug 1999 – June 2004 | Sr Vice President - Design Director
Ellerbe Beckett | San Francisco, CA | June 2004 – Nov 2009 | Design Director - Principal
AECOM | San Francisco Bay Area | Nov 2009 – March 2012 | Design Director - Principal
NBBJ | San Francisco, CA | April 2012 – Feb 2015 | Project Director - Architecture
Perkins & Will | San Francisco, CA | March 2015 – Sept 2017 | Director for Science and Technology
DGA | San Francisco, CA | Sept 2017 – Nov 2025 | Principal - Architecture and Interiors
A Life of Spice, Sound, and Sun
While his profession was Design and Project Leadership, it was only outshined by his love of family and his rich Mexican heritage. Bob had a vibrant personality reflected in his hobbies: he enjoyed Golf, had a passion for playing the guitar, and loved an eclectic mix of Music, including Motown, Mexican, and Smooth Jazz.
He held a lifelong affinity for the University of Arizona (his alma mater) and was a passionate supporter of Bay Area sports, cheering fiercely for the Golden State Warriors, San Francisco 49ers, and San Francisco Giants.
He cherished his annual trips to Cabo San Lucas, where he loved to hang by the pool and visit his favorite restaurants, including "Mi Casa," "The Office," and "Mariscos Mazatlan" for their famous "pescado frito." Back home, he was an adventurous spirit in the kitchen, often Cooking "not always by the book," and always needed to add a touch of spice to every dish-a perfect metaphor for how he lived his life.
Mentorship and Philanthropy
In his later years, Bob dedicated himself to mentorship and philanthropy. He generously shared his knowledge by teaching at Cal Berkeley and acting as a youth mentor, inspiring the next generation of professionals.
Driven by his deep connection to his heritage, he committed to an annual tradition of spending one weekend building homes for those in need on the Tijuana/San Diego border. This hands-on philanthropy was a true expression of his compassionate spirit and commitment to community.
Family and Legacy
Robert was preceded in death by his brothers, Tony Bracamonte and Eugene Bracamonte. He is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, Christina Bracamonte. He was a pillar of strength, warmth, and quiet wisdom to his children: Paul Bracamonte and Mark Bracamonte. Robert had love for his daughter-in-law Samantha Ruiz, deepening his admiration for Colombian culture.
He found immense joy in his role as a grandfather to Andre Bracamonte and Alina Bracamonte. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Nelly Bracamonte, and his niece and nephew, Erika Bracamonte (John Jackson) and Richard Bracamonte. He instilled a deep appreciation for culture, history, and the bonds of family in all of them.
He will be deeply missed by his extended family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives were touched by his design, leadership, and generosity.
Service Details
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at 10:00 am at St Matthew Catholic Church, located at 1 Notre Dame Ave, San Mateo, CA 94402. St Matthew Catholic Church: https://stmatthew-parish.org