Robert J. Swaim

Robert J. Swaim passed away on May 9th at the age of 93. His passion for people, architecture, humor, cycling, cars, problem solving and standing up for what's right has left a lasting impression on his family, friends, Tucson, and the world.

Bob' journey began on February 1, 1930, son of Don and Willa Swaim. While studying architecture at the University of Nebraska he was a Phi Gamma Delta along with Johnny Carson and beat out the lead tenor from the Ed Sullivan Show in Glee Club. He also met the finest and most influential person in his life, Donna, at a Cornhusker football game. They were married in 1953 before he shipped out to Korea as an officer in the Army Corps of Engineers. On his return they ventured to Albuquerque where they had their daughter, Katy, and Bob started his career in architecture. With an opportunity for Bob to work with Nick Sakellar, they moved to Tucson in 1958 where they had their son, Phil, and Donna began her amazing 50 year career as a beloved teacher at the University of Arizona of which Bob was so proud. After a successful partnership as Cook and Swaim starting in 1961, and a nine-month adventure with the family moving to London, Bob began his own firm in 1969 which has grown to become Swaim Associates Architects currently celebrating their 54th year. Bob's architectural legacy includes the iconic upside-down pyramid at Wilmot and Speedway, historic Orchard River Townhomes, Robbins Elementary School, UA Highland Commons, Reid Zoo Giraffe Exhibit, and numerous office buildings and award winning and published homes. One of his proudest moments was working with the community at a time of civil unrest in 1972 to design the El Rio Neighborhood Center which established a culture of community involvement, creative problem solving and team process that lives on today in Swaim Associates. Bob was the Southern Arizona AIA President, and in 1986 he was awarded the prestigious AIA Arizona Architects Medal.

Bob was a champion for civil rights, whether picketing in the 60's or working to stop entrapment in the 70's. His years of letters to the editor and dozens of published editorial cartoons are infamous. Bob served the community as Board members of the Girl's Club of Tucson, Arizona Children's Home, and Ballet Arizona. He also volunteered at the Tucson Wildlife Center where he formed a bond with a particularly ornery vulture. Bob utilized his talents and sang for the Sons Of Orpheus Choir, developed the drawings for the Reid Zoo signage, sketched family and friends, and enlivened creative sculpture out of old wood.

Bob was an avid cyclist for over 50 years following in his son's footsteps. He was proud of his bronze medal in the Arizona State Time Trial Championship, and Bob and Donna followed the Tour de France in person on multiple occasions. Until a few weeks ago Bob would meet his friends multiple times every week for a ride and coffee, though finally on an e-trike. Bob was also an avid car guy, restoring several historic VWs and Alpha Romeos, and was the founder of the Tucson Alpha Romeo Club.

In the wake of Bob Swaim's passing, his family and friends mourn the loss of a remarkable individual. He will be remembered for his wit, creativity, and principled nature. He is survived by his daughter Katy, Son Phil (Sabrina), grandchildren Chris (Melynda), Sean, Alex, and Kelly, greatgrandchildren Caden, Desmond, and Titus, dog Honey, and cat Hazel.

His legacy will continue to inspire future generations to approach life with passion, compassion, and a true sense of community. A memorial celebration is anticipated later this fall.

If interested, donations can be made to Cornerstone Building Foundation Charities for the Robert Swaim Architecture scholarship at the U of A Foundation. https://donate.stripe.com/14k4iz4Yr5fv3II3cc