Robert Chilton Calfee
Jan. 26, 1933-Oct. 24, 2014
Stanford, California
Submitted by Suzanne Barchers

Robert "Bob" C. Calfee died peacefully at the age of 81 in his Stanford home with family at his side. Bob was born in Lexington, Kentucky. He interrupted his studies at UCLA to serve in the U.S. Air Force from 1953 to 1957. He returned to UCLA, earning a B.S., M.A and Ph.D. (1963).

His distinguished academic career began at the University of Wisconsin, Madison (1964-1969). From 1969 to 1998, Bob held several positions at Stanford University, including professor of education and psychology, plus four years as associate dean, Research and Development. From 1998 to 2003, Bob served as dean and professor of education at the University of California, Riverside, continuing there as distinguished professor of education until 2005. From then until the time of his death, Bob was professor of education emeritus at the University of California, Riverside, and professor of education, emeritus on recall, at Stanford University.

Bob served on numerous national and international boards, was an editor and reviewer for professional journals, and was a prolific writer and dedicated researcher. He authored or co-authored more than 300 articles, plus several books and educational programs.

Outside of academia, Bob enjoyed traveling, gardening, art, classical music, the theater, cooking and entertaining in his Stanford home.

He was predeceased by his parents, Robert Klair Calfee and Nancy Bernice Stipp; his son, Robert Allen Calfee; and his brother, James "Jim" Lee Calfee. He is survived by his loving wife, Suzanne (Dumville) Barchers, and her children and grandchildren. He is also survived by his children, Adele (Calfee) Woodward of San Dimas, California; Robert W. Calfee of Dublin, California; and Elise Sachs of Boulder, Colorado. Surviving sisters include Sara (Calfee) Goodno of Pasadena, California; Jean (Calfee) Knapp of Covina, California; and Loretta Calfee of San Diego, California. Also left to cherish his memory are numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and countless friends, students that he mentored and colleagues.

Tags: veteran, teacher/educator, public service