Robert Emanuel Berry Sr.
July 4, 1928 - July 23, 2018 Los Altos Hills
Born on the 4th of July in Atlantic City, N.J., Robert Emanuel Berry Sr. went peacefully to God on July 23, 2018 at the age of 90.
He lived an adventuresome life full of wonder and curiosity for the world, and while known for his remarkable career, Bob always kept his faith and family as his compass.
Predeceased by his loving wife of 61 years, Dorothy, and his siblings; Marguerite Prost (Marcel), Charles (Martha), Joseph (Carol) and William Berry.
Bob leaves behind his devoted son, Robert E. Berry Jr., his daughter-in-law, Sandra Pollano Berry, his four grandchildren; Renee (Matthew Boitano), Robert Leo (Megan), Andrea, Valentina, and his three great grandchildren; Jude and Reese Boitano, and Pippa Berry.
He received his Bachelors of Science from Manhattan College and his Masters in Economics from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
Bob served as Lieutenant in the United States Navy before his work as a pioneer in the aerospace industry.
Laying the groundwork for today’s modern communications, Robert’s vision for the future of satellite systems resulted in the development of innovations that have helped people all over the world.
He served on the Space Systems Technology Advisory Committee for NASA, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Commercial Space Transportation Advisory Committee and was appointed as the Deputy Director of Defense Research and Engineering under President Gerald Ford.
From 1977-1990, Bob was the general manager of Ford Aerospace’s Space Systems Division (SSD). In 1999 he was named president of Space Systems Loral (SSL), and later became chairman. He served as SVP of Loral Space & Communications until his retirement at the age of 80 in 2008.
He led SSL through meteorological satellite projects for defense, civil and commercial applications and played an important part in what is today’s commercial satellite industry.
A resident of Los Altos Hills since 1978, Bob and his wife Dorothy also lived in London, England, Margate, N.J., Media, PA, Atherton, Laguna Beach and La Jolla, CA.
Together, they enjoyed traveling and learning about cultures and traditions from people all over the world, but mostly appreciated being home while graciously and creatively entertaining family and friends.
Bob, or “Bibo” as he was affectionately known by family, was an extraordinary wise, earnest, amicable, compassionate gentleman. His loving humor, humility and patient presence will be greatly missed.
In Lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made in his name to Immaculate Heart Monastery, 28210 Natoma Rd., Los Altos Hills, CA 94022
A Rosary will be held on the evening of Thursday, August 2nd at 7:00 P.M., and a Memorial Mass on the morning of August 3rd at 11:00 A.M., both at St. Nicholas Catholic Church (743 Lincoln Ave., Los Altos, Ca. 94022)
A private Christian burial will take place at Gate of Heaven Catholic Cemetery in Los Altos.
The community is invited to view and contribute to a memorial website at www.roberteberry.com