Robert Stefan

Robert Nicholas Stefan

Robert Nicholas Stefan January 5, 1920 - September 8, 2013

Of Orinda, CA. Passed away peacefully after a full and wonderful life. Robert Nicholas "Nick" Stefan was born and raised in Modesto, California to Fotis "Frank" Nicholas Stefan (of Nea Koroni, Greece) and Eva Hinkson Stefan (of Kings County, California).

An officer, and always a gentleman, Nick was both conscientious and charismatic. He was a generous and loyal man who was truly beloved by a wide circle of friends and by his treasured family. Nick attended USF, and graduated from UCLA in 1942, after which he enlisted in the Navy.

As a World War II naval officer aboard the aircraft carrier USS Langley, his world travels began with four years in the Pacific. He shared his enthusiasm for travel with his family on many memorable trips, but he said that of all the places he had seen, "...from Mog-Mog to Mali Island...," Italy was his favorite destination.

After the war ended, Nick attended the USC School of Law and was admitted to the State Bar of California in 1950. By the time he retired, in 1994, he had built a stellar reputation as a successful business lawyer.

In addition to his love of travel to faraway places, Nick enjoyed playing golf with friends. He was a 45 year supporter of the Oakland Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Ascension Golf tournament where a hole was named in his honor.

In 2010, Nick married Georgene, a dear friend of many years. Together they shared three wonderful years of companionship, laughter and infinite joy.

Nick loved a good time, fast cars and well tailored suits. He was always ready to share a fine meal (preferably at his favorite restaurant, Fleur de Lys) always preceded by a glass of Johnny Walker Red. A natural charmer, Nick will be remembered for his wise observations and wonderful sense of humor.

He was a cherished patriarch who leaves a grieving family behind.

He is survived by his wife Georgene Stefan and his three children Mark Stefan (Lisa); Clinton Stefan (Pamela); and Keely Stefan. He leaves six wonderful grandchildren: Kelly and Kathryn O'Gorman, Nicholas and Jordan Stefan, and Ashley and Avery Stefan. Nick is also survived by Georgene's children Katherine Kosmos (David Peniston), Kristan Kosmos, and Stephanie Kosmos; and her grandchildren Sam Bird and Anaïs and Chloé Mitelberg. He was preceded in death by his parents, loving wife of 44 years, Edith Worthen Stefan, and siblings Mary Frances Riepe, Janice Ector, Athena Stefan, James Stefan and Patricia Reinke.

At Nick's request the burial will be private. A gathering of friends and family will be held at Orinda Country Club on September 18, 2013 at 4:00 PM. Please join his family to celebrate the life of this magnificent man.

In lieu of flowers, you may wish to remember Nick by raising your glass in a toast to his memory.

Pamé - Let's go!