Robert W. Wakefield ’50

Bob died Feb. 4, 2010, in Delray Beach, Fla.

Bob graduated from Blair, where he was a three-letter athlete. At Princeton, he was active in intramural athletics and a member of the Pre-Law Society, and belonged to Charter. His degree was in economics.

After graduation and just before entering Harvard Law School, he contracted polio, underwent a year of rehab, and was left with residual muscle damage that necessitated a lifetime use of crutches and other orthopedic devices. He then went to the University of Virginia Law School, where he received a law degree in 1954. He was admitted to the Delaware Bar the same year.

Except for a brief stint as an assistant U.S. attorney, Bob practiced law in Wilmington until 1972. In that year, fulfilling a commitment to public and social service, he accepted an appointment as judge of the Delaware Family Court. He retired from the court 22 years later and moved to Florida.

Bob was active in his community and was an avid sports fan. Despite his physical limitations, he coached Little League baseball and football while on crutches.

We extend our sympathy to Gaye, his wife of 52 years; his brother, David; children Lynne, Carol, Wendy, and Robert; and nine grandchildren.