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Robert Appleton Obituary
Died in San Francisco on May 31, 2013 at age 94. Beloved husband of Leslie Appleton for 70 years; loving father of Robert O. Appleton, Jr. (Susan), Diane Appleton (David Ach) and Michael Appleton (Pam Sawyer); adoring grandfather of Jesse and Seth Appleton, Emily and Julie Ach, and Andrew and Anne Appleton; dear brother-in-law of Marion Oppenheimer and Diane Ehrman (Joseph); caring uncle of Elisabeth Oppenheimer; loving son of the late Abraham and Hilda Oser Appleton.
"Appie," as he was fondly called by his family and close friends, graduated from Galileo High School and UC Berkeley School of Architecture. He was the second generation in what is soon to be four generations of San Francisco Appleton architects. After designing concrete barges for the US Navy during World War II, Appie joined his father's San Francisco architectural firm of Appleton & Wolford, ultimately becoming Appleton & Appleton. He later retired from the San Francisco Bureau of Architecture. Over the course of his career, Appie designed both residential and public buildings throughout the Bay Area including many San Francisco public libraries. He was the supervising architect for the restoration of Golden Gate Park's historic carousel. Appie was a member of the Concordia-Argonaut Club for 80 years. He enjoyed hiking in the Sierra Nevada and was involved with Camp Tawonga as a camper, counselor and architect. With his sparkling blue eyes, impish grin, and gentle demeanor, Appie will be dearly missed by his family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Boys & Girls Clubs of SF, Jewish Family and Children's Services, the Yosemite Fund, or a charity of your choice, would be kindly appreciated.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Appleton
June 17, 2013
June 17, 2013
Chuck Lebo
June 17, 2013
I will always fondly remember our Troop 14 days and sailing adventures on SF bay.
Bill Chapot
June 9, 2013
I felt real sadness mixed with many happy memories as a result of knowing and working with Bob while he was at the Bureau of Architecture. Of all of his projects it pleased me that the restoration of the Golden Gate Park Carrousel was the one project noted by name. My father and I were the general contractors that completed the restoration under his direction. Although it's been more than twenty five years since we finished, the Carrousel project remains the highlight of my career. I will never forget working with Bob as Supervising Architect and Paul Rosenthal as Engineer. From the "kick off" lunch meeting at the Palace Hotel's Garden Court to the final "topping out" party at the Carousell it was always a pleasure working with Bob, he was a real gentleman and he will be missed.
Nancy Cohrs
June 9, 2013
What a wonderful life he had! I think of you, Michael, every time I enter the Marina Library (as I didn't know "Apple"). I'm so sorry for your loss.
Howard Wong, AIA
June 8, 2013
Upbeat, ever cheerful Bob Appleton was one of the old guard at the Bureau of Architecture---who established a professional foundation that lives on today. I will always appreciate his honest directness and remember him bustling around in an old-time drafting apron, which seemed symbolic of his family's many generations of architects.
Sympathy From Hirsch Family
Jim & Tina & girls Hirsch
June 6, 2013
Dear Appleton Family members,
We are saddened to learn of Bob's recent passing. We offer you our deepest, heartfelt sympathy. We will miss Bob too.
When we think of Bob, his firm handshake, gleaming blue eyes combined with his warm smile stand out in our memory. We will always remember the wonderful fun-filled Christmas day parties at the Appleton home -- and the table of delicious homemade dishes from Leslie's kitchen.
We are also grateful for Bob's generosity in offering complimentary, expert architectural advice when requested. He was indeed a kind and giving man who will not be forgotten.
Sincerely,
Jim & Tina Hirsch
Mary Meier Ryan
June 6, 2013
So sorry to read about the passing of a long family friend to my late parents and our family. My strength is being sent your way for healing through this difficult time.
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