Deceased February 16, 2017
View alumni profile (log in required)
Read obituary
In Memory
The College has been informed of the death of Rob Wood on Feb. 16, 2017.
He came to Amherst from Shaker Heights, Ohio, where he attended the University School. His fraternity affiliation was with Phi Gam, and he majored in economics. Rob earned his ’54 numerals for freshman soccer, was a member of the Masquers and served on the News Bureau while at Amherst. Following graduation, he spent two years in the U.S. Air Force and continued to hold a private pilot’s license for many years. Next came Harvard Business School, which prepared him for his success in career sales, predominantly as president and owner of Donald Sales Manufacturing Co., a chemical manufacturing and distribution firm, until his retirement.
In 1962, he and Nancy Anita Butler, who attended Stephens College and the University of Illinois, Urbana, were married and settled in Whitefish Bay, Wis., in Milwaukee County, where they lived for 35 years and raised their family. Then they moved to Mequon, Wis., wintering in Bonita Springs, Fla. He had a reputation as a skillful cook and was known as an avid reader, golfer and sailor. And, not surprisingly, Rob was a diehard Green Bay Packers fan. He also helped his brothers build farm houses in Ohio and Nova Scotia.
Although Rob did not frequent Amherst for homecomings or reunions, until he became incapacitated he was always a faithful supporter of the College.
Nancy predeceased him in 2008 as did one brother. Survivors include three daughters, five grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, two brothers and his dear friend and partner, Phyllis Viall.
Hank Tulgan ’54