Robert P. Hauptfuhrer ’53

Bob, a quintessential Princetonian in the University’s service, died Aug. 11, 2013, of a subdural hematoma. He was a charter trustee from 1987 to 1997, serving over a dozen University services and finishing his term as vice chair of the executive committee.

Entering from William Penn Charter School, Bob studied public affairs in SPIA and belonged to Cap and Gown. He graduated summa cum laude and as a member of Phi Beta Kappa. He played basketball for three years, and was class treasurer from 1962 to 1965 and president from 1965 to 1968. He served two years in the Navy.

Bob graduated as a Baker Scholar from Harvard Business School and joined Sun Oil Co. in 1957, eventually becoming president and then heading the newly spun-off Oryx Energy in Dallas, Texas, as CEO and board chair. He retired in 1994.

Bob is survived by his devoted wife, the former Barbara Dunlop, whom he married in 1963; children Brenda Helber, Bruce, and Bryan; and four cherished grandchildren, including Andrew R. Helber ’16.

Bob was dealing with cancer and had a quadruple bypass 29 years ago. However, he managed to celebrate his 50th wedding anniversary and attend our 60th reunion. As fellow trustee John Beck said, “Bob died with as much dignity as anyone I’ve ever known.”