Robert G. "Bob" Burton Sr.

Robert 'Bob' G. Burton, Sr., a titan of the printing industry, a devoted family man, and a passionate philanthropist passed away peacefully on March 21, 2025, at his home in Greenwich, Connecticut. He was 86 years old. Known for his sharp business acumen, unwavering dedication to education, and love for football, Bob leaves behind a legacy that touched countless lives through his leadership, generosity, and indomitable spirit.
Born on April 4, 1938, in Pontiac, Michigan, Bob rose from humble beginnings in the coal-mining town of West Frankfort, Illinois to become a transformative figure in both business and collegiate athletics. Bob's early life instilled in him a fierce work ethic and a deep appreciation for giving back to the community. He carried his love for collegiate athletics into a lifelong commitment supporting student-athletes. As a standout athlete at West Frankfort High School, Bob was fortunate to earn an athletic scholarship to play football at Murray State University in Murray, Kentucky, where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in 1962. That same year, Bob was drafted by both the San Francisco 49ers of the NFL and the Buffalo Bills of the AFL. After his athletic career was cut short by an injury, Bob continued his educational pursuits and received a Master's degree from Tennessee Technological University. He pursued additional post graduate studies at the University of Alabama, where he discovered his passion for Alabama Crimson Tide football. Bob also received two honorary doctorate degrees in business from the University of Connecticut and Murray State University.
Bob's career in the printing and publishing industry spanned decades and included leadership roles at some of the nation's most prominent companies. For six decades, Bob led with passion while driving unmatched growth across the industry reflecting his reputation as a turnaround specialist with an unrelenting drive for excellence. Bob started his business career in Chicago, Illinois at Science Research Associates, the publishing division of IBM. He then held a series of senior executive positions at Capital Cities/ABC, including President of ABC Publishing. In 1991, Bob was recruited by KKR to lead their portfolio company, World Color Press. Under Bob's leadership, World Color Press grew into an industry leader and was eventually acquired by Quebecor in a transaction valued at $2.7 billion. In late 2000, Bob partnered with the late Ted Ammon and assumed the leadership of Toronto based Moore Corporation, leading its turnaround before it merged with Wallace Computer Services. In 2003, Bob and his three sons founded Burton Capital Management, LLC, based in Greenwich, Connecticut. In 2005, he took the helm of Cenveo, Inc., a Stamford-based global leader in printing and packaging, where he served as Chairman and CEO until his retirement in 2018.
Beyond business, Bob was deeply passionate about charitable and educational causes. As a resident of Connecticut since 1977, Bob was a pillar of the community and a generous benefactor to numerous local organizations. His most notable contributions were to the University of Connecticut, where he and his family donated over $7 million to the football program. His $2.5 million gift established the Burton Family Football Complex, a state-of-the-art facility that opened in 2006 and became a cornerstone of UConn's rise in Division I athletics. Bob also endowed scholarships at UConn for student-athletes pursuing business careers, including one named for his son Michael G. Burton, a former UConn football captain.
Bob was also a huge supporter of student athletes in Greenwich, Connecticut, where, with a $200,000 gift, he helped Greenwich High School install lights at Cardinal Stadium. He also served on the Board of Eagle Hill School, where he was a strong financial supporter and helped fund the construction of Burton Field. Bob also funded numerous academic scholarships for graduating seniors at West Frankfort High School and students at Syracuse University.
Bob's philanthropy and generosity extended beyond education. Together with his beloved wife of 52 years, Paula, they supported organizations such as the Greenwich-based Breast Cancer Alliance, West Frankfort Fire Department and High School Library and Stamford Hospital, in all contributing over $30 million to educational and charitable initiatives. His generosity was matched only by his devotion to his family, whom he considered his greatest achievement.
He is survived by his wife, Paula Burton; his sister Earlene Schlichter; his sons, Robert G. Burton, Jr. (Stacey), Michael G. Burton (Tiffany), Joseph Burton (Calico), and nine grandchildren who brought him immense joy along with his faithful dog, Buddy. Bob was predeceased by his parents, Earl and Verna Lee, and his brother, Larry.
He will be missed by his friends and family with whom he had rich and lengthy relationships. Bob Burton will be remembered as a man who turned challenges into opportunities and who gave selflessly to uplift others. He lived with a passion that inspired all who knew him. His legacy will live on in the businesses he built, the students he supported, and the family he cherished.
A private memorial service was held for family and close friends in Greenwich, Connecticut. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Breast Cancer Alliance in Greenwich, Connecticut, a cause that was dear to Bob's heart.
Arrangements are under the direction of Thomas M. Gallagher Funeral Home 104 Myrtle Ave Stamford, Ct. To send on-line condolences to the family, please visit www.gallagherfuneralhome.com
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