Robert M Gair

Bob was born on the cusp of the Great Depression in Pittsfield, Massachusetts to first-generation and immigrant Russian-Jewish parents. His early years were a mix of small-town America and Jewish diaspora life. The family kept ties to Brooklyn and New York, at one point returning to Brooklyn during part of Bob’s high school years.

Robert earned a masters degree in Public Administration from the Maxwell School, Syracuse University. A variety of jobs, including community Aquatics Director, U.S. Army Military Police, and Budget Examiner at U.S. Dept. of Health, led into a long and fruitful career. As Budget Director at the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development 1983-1990, he was known to be a sharp analyst, a mentor to many, and the person to see about agency history and operations.

Bob treasured numerous enduring friendships – a family of friends - in the Washington D.C. area and beyond. These friendships and the interests at their heart: music; history; and contemporary art, formed the center of Bob’s retirement years. His friends speak of Bob’s kindness and loyalty. “He served selflessly and never blew his own horn.” He spent most of his retirement years happily in his home at Fox Hill Residences, MD. He attended American University’s Osher Lifelong Learning classes and participated in numerous professional, civic, and arts organizations including the American Society of Public Administration, D.C. embassy events, the Washington Arts Club, Washington Hebrew Congregation, and the National Press Club. He made annual trips to Tanglewood performing arts events in Lenox, MA. As Bob’s health declined, he was blessed with a wonderful Care Manager and helpers who gave him steady loving support.

Family was important to Bob. He regularly spent time with his parents and two brothers (now deceased) and their families. Cousins, nephews, nieces, grandnephews/nieces in Florida, the D.C. area, California, and Mexico mourn his passing.

Farewell Robert. Farewell Uncle Bob.

A private service is being held at King David Memorial Gardens.