1958 — 2026
Architect, mentor, and beloved father. Robert dedicated his life to building spaces that brought people together. He found beauty in simplicity and purpose in every line he drew.
Born in San Francisco, Robert discovered his passion for architecture at an early age. He spent hours sketching the city's skyline, a hobby that eventually led him to the prestigious College of Environmental Design.
Over his 40-year career, he designed libraries, community centers, and public parks. He believed that good design should be accessible to everyone, not just the privileged few. His firm, Chen & Associates, won numerous awards for sustainable and community-focused projects.
But his greatest achievement, he often said, was his family. He met his wife, Elena, in a coffee shop in 1982, and they spent the next 44 years traveling the world, raising their two daughters, and building a life filled with laughter and love.
Robert passed away peacefully after a brief illness. His legacy will live on in the buildings he designed, the students he mentored, and the family who loves him endlessly.
Saturday, October 14, 2026
2:00 PM PST
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Architecture Foundation for Youth.
"Robert was my first mentor when I joined the firm. He taught me that design is about listening, not just drawing. I will miss his wisdom and his dry sense of humor."
"We love you, Elena. Robert's spirit lives on in the beautiful community center he designed for our neighborhood. Thinking of you all."