RICHARD FURLAUD

FURLAUD--Richard.

Richard Mortimer Furlaud (aged 95) died peacefully on September 10 surrounded by his family. Dick was the loving husband of Isabel, cherished father of Richard (Susan) Furlaud, Eleanor (Laszlo) Adam and Tamsin (Robert) Rachofsky and adored grandfather of Jamey and Scott Furlaud, Nick and Dash Adam and Will, Carolyn and Peter Rachofsky. His career included the stewardship of several of America's premier institutions. He was President and CEO of Squibb Corp, which over the course of two decades he built into a pharmaceutical giant and which culminated in its 1989 merger with Bristol-Myers. After his "retirement" in 1991, he became Chairman and CEO of International Flavors and Fragrances, Inc., Chairman of American Express Company and Chairman of the Rockefeller University Board of Trustees. The business and organizational difficulties he faced were diverse in mission, time frame, and complexity. But by bringing to bear long term strategic planning, effective problem solving, an ability to assemble cohesive and able teams, and charismatic leadership, he was up to all challenges. In addition, throughout his career, whether as leader in public service or business, he was deeply committed to the advancement of medical science through research. Upon presenting him with an honorary degree in 1998, the board of trustees of Rockefeller University wrote: "Richard Furlaud has been a vital force in advancing basic research since he entered the pharmaceutical industry in the 1950's. A brilliant strategist with a deep commitment to furthering scientific understanding of the basis of human health and disease, he has diligently promoted cutting-edge research efforts that have benefited countless people throughout the world." Born in New York City in 1923, he moved to France as a boy, returning to the US to attend Princeton University from which he graduated in 1943 followed by Harvard Law School in 1947. He was also a competitive athlete. As a teenager he won the Swiss Interscholastic Skiing Championship. In his four years on the Princeton Tennis Team he never lost a match. Both skiing and tennis were an important part of his life well into his eighties. Espe- cially in his later years, he enjoyed travelling the world with his wife Isabel, the love of his life. For all his achievements, he was most proud of his children and grandchildren. He was predeceased by his grandson, Alex Adam. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to Rockefeller University to support its programs in biomedical research. Plans for a memorial celebration have not yet been finalized.