Deceased December 6, 2019

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In Memory

Bob Asher, 83, died on Dec. 6, 2019, from complications of respiratory failure exacerbated by a fall. Known as “Yogi” during our college years, he majored in economics, joined the Deke fraternity and was an announcer on WAMF. After college, Bob served in the U.S. Air Force, after which he hosted a radio show on WDOV in Dover, Del. By the early 1960s, Bob was firmly ensconced in his career with the Washington Post. He rose from copy boy, to reporter, to senior editorial board member, covering local politics.

In 1972, Bob taught journalism at Howard University in Washington, D.C. This gig would last as a part-time job for 30 years. He would mentor many students, some of whom, including Benilde Little, became well-known writers.

In 1991, Bob was awarded the Eugene Meyer Award, which recognizes Washington Post employees with at least 12 years of service, for best exemplifying the principles of Eugene Meyer, owner and publisher until his death in 1963.

In 1963, Bob married Jane Deegan, who worked at the Post for cartoonist Herb Block. They lived in Washington, D.C., and owned a house in Rehoboth Beach, Del. They had a son, Bobby, a teacher at Georgetown Day School, and a daughter, Julie, a TV personality in Washington for the French TV broadcasting company TF1. The next level of progeny included six charming granddaughters who exhibited their charm and poise at Bob’s memorial service, held at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 25.

Bob was active in our class, attended most of our reunions and served a term as class co-secretary. He will be missed for his fellowship, humor and friendship. The class extends its deepest sympathy to his widow, Jane; his son, Bobby; his daughter, Julie; and his grandchildren, Andie, Madison, Ellie, Emma, Jamie and Cate.

Chuck Evans ’57