Robert Phelan

1926 - 2016

Robert Early Phelan was born in Oakland, CA in 1926. After living in Berkeley until 1928, the family moved to Winnipeg, Manitoba. In summers the family traveled for business to Island Falls, Saskatchewan's Hudson's Bay Mining and Smelting Co., Ltd. The Athapapuskow Indians led the trip of fifteen hours, portaging between the lakes using different boats including "The Otter". After moving to Pasadena, CA and attending high school, Robert served in the US Navy. He received both undergraduate and law degrees at Stanford University. "Bob" to friends and colleagues, settled in San Francisco and worked in the contract division of Southern Pacific Railroad. He then practiced bankruptcy law with August Rothschild and later as senior partner of Phelan, Stuppi, Sorensen & McQuaid. He became quite well known in the Bay Area in his area of special expertise. A regular patron of San Francisco opera, ballet and symphony programs, Robert was also greatly admired by the Francophile community including The French Class that he attended faithfully once a week since 1996. At the rustic family cabin in Inverness, CA, Robert was an avid gardener and loved to tinker with house-related repairs. Though a private and thoughtful person, "Robear" greatly enjoyed cooking for festive gourmet gatherings. His candid sense of humor brought everyone to life. Content in his world and garden, Robear loved the city and the fog. An independent spirit, he encouraged those who were dear to him on their quests. Empathetic and generous, he often took care of people in sickness and in health. He is survived by his children John and Ann, grandchildren Avery, Pierson and Natali, sister Yan Slattery, nieces and nephews, partner Sylvia Logiudice and many great kindred spirits. Robert requested that there be no service. Memorial donations will be gratefully accepted by San Francisco Botanical Garden Society (formerly Strybing Arboretum). Checks can be mailed to 320 Judah Street Suite 2, SF, CA 94122; contact Bekah Paige bpaige@sfbg.org.