Thomas Robert Fiddler ’42

Bob Fiddler died June 27, 2007, in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla., after a prolonged illness.

He was born in New York City, son of Earle Thomas Fiddler 1909. Bob graduated from The Hill School and majored in economics at Princeton, where he was a member of Charter Club and the JV golf team. Bob also was associate manager of Triangle Club and greatly enjoyed its winter trip during his senior year.

He was commissioned in the Naval Reserve in 1941. In 1943 he was on convoy duty in the Mediterranean when his ship was attacked by the German Air Force. Both the crew and the ship survived. He parted from the Navy in 1946 as a lieutenant commander.

After the war, Bob began a merchandising career in which he achieved distinction. His entry-level job was with Marshall Field in Chicago. From there he advanced to positions in Atlanta, Knoxville, and New York City, finally winding up as CEO of D.H. Holmes Co. in New Orleans. Always active in civic affairs, he was president of the New Orleans Tourist and Convention Center.

Bob was predeceased by his son, Thomas N. '70. He is survived by his wife, Sonny; his daughters, Martha Yaros and Kathryn Butcher; and four grandchildren. To them, the class offers its sympathy.