Bob was a close friend of mine. I saw him every week for the past several years. He died a week ago today, Sunday, March 21st.
Bob's collection of mostly awarded paphs, many Phalaenopsis (especially species and primary hybrids) and several members of the Lycaste Alliance was un-equaled. He spent close to 40 years acquiring the BEST there was, and he received more FCC awards than any other person, at least I believe so.
Bob continued to make some of the very best hybrids and his collection continued to expand, especially in the numbers of pots of the same clones; he hardly ever sold anything. At present his collection is valued quite high, but no one really knows how many plants he has in his 40 x 60 ft., commercial-grade greenhouse. Just weeks ago Bob began a process to donate his collection to The Huntington, whether or not that will be completed is not known just now. I believe that it will.
Bob had a seat on the New York Stock Exchange, which he sold a few years ago. His widow, Gloria is a remarkable person who gave him strength, love and balance.
From the SB News Press:
"He was a man of many interests: books, golf, food, but he is best known for his prize winning orchid collection; a past member of the American Orchid Society Board, Director of the Santa Barbara Orchid Show, and interviewed by Leslie Stahl on 60 Minutes as the consummate orchid grower. He was a member of Birnam Wood and the Valley Club, as well as the Los Angeles Confrerie du Tastevin and the Commanderie de Bordeaux in Santa Barbara, where he served as regent."
Bob was 80 years old and he will be missed greatly.
