Robert W. Suter Esq.

Robert W. Suter, Esq., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, attorney, and lifelong steward of the rowing community, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on September 3, 2025. Born in Philadelphia, Bob graduated from LaSalle College in 1960 and went on to earn his Juris Doctorate from Villanova University School of Law in 1966. He passed the Pennsylvania Bar on November 21, 1966, beginning a legal career marked by service, leadership, and integrity. Bob first served as a Judicial Law Clerk and Assistant Court Administrator before becoming Bucks County's First Deputy Public Defender. He had a private general practice of law in Warminster and subsequently in Doylestown, PA. He was later admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court on April 30, 1979. He also served as Solicitor for Upper Moreland Township and educated many students at LaSalle College night school in business law. Prior to law school Bob proudly served in the United States Army as a Staff Judge Advocate General for three years, embodying a commitment to country and justice that remained throughout his life. Beyond the courtroom, Bob's greatest passion was rowing. A member of Vesper Boat Club, he competed at the highest levels, including winning a National Championship in 1958 (Pair with Coxswain) and capturing two Dad Vail Championships with LaSalle College in the varsity eight. His coaching career spanned decades, beginning with LaSalle College High School from 1966–1972 and again from 1975–1982, where he shaped countless young rowers. Bob's impact on the sport extended far beyond the water. He was a founding member of Ocean City High School Crew, supported son Kevin in establishing Stone Bridge High School Rowing, and advocated for Marietta College Rowing. He served as a respected referee for over 30 years, including officiating two Olympic Trials. He dedicated 11 years as Chief Referee of the Stotesbury Cup Regatta and was a member of the Board of Directors of the Scholastic Rowing Association of America (SRAA). In recognition of his lasting contributions, he received the George Illman Award in 2005, and the Stotesbury Regatta honors his legacy each year with the Robert W. Suter Trophy. Bob and Mazie retired to Ocean City, NJ where he was a founding member of the ROMEO club (retired old men eating out). At his core, Bob cherished his family above all. He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Mary Anne aka Maize.; his children Robert Jr. (Mary Francis), Kevin (Christine), Michael (Linda), John (Karen), Mary Anne, and Patrick (Geidre); his adored grandchildren Julie, Robert III, Sean, Liam, Michael Jr., Colin, William, Caitlin, Jack, Will, Kelanai, and Savannah.; his cherished great granddaughters McKinley, Josephine, and Claire. He also leaves behind the memory of his loyal dogs-Snoopy, Scamper, Buck, Abercrombie, Flynn, and survived by Kellie-who were constant companions over the years. Bob will be remembered as a man of principle, a mentor, and a devoted family man whose influence on both the legal and rowing communities will endure for generations. Relatives and friends are invited to Bob's Life Celebration on Friday, September 5, 2025 from 9:30 am to 10:50 am with his Funeral Mass to follow at 11 am all at St. Rose of Lima Church of North Wales, 424 S. Main Street. Interment will be private at a later date at Washington Crossing National Cemetery. Services to the family are entrusted to Boyd Horrox Givnish Life Celebration Home of East Norriton. To share your fondest memories of Bob, please visit www.lifecelebration.com, 610-277-7000.