Bob Earl Wolfson

by | Jan 22, 2016 | Obituaries

Norfolk —Bob Earl Wolfson passed away on December 30, 2015 at his home in San Diego, California surrounded by his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Born on September 23, 1947, he was a native of Jacksonville, Fla. where he attended Landon High School, the University of Florida, and married his childhood friend, Vicki Anderson.

In 1970, he was stationed in Norfolk with the US Navy. Bob and Vicki remained in Norfolk for more than 30 years, raising their two daughters, Amy and Amanda. After 16 years as executive director of the ODU Research Foundation, Bob and Vicki relocated to California in 2000 where Bob continued his career as an executive in research administration.

Bob served as a board member for numerous professional and community organizations, and he is a founding member of the Virginia chapter of the Society of Research Administrators. Of all his community service endeavors—including decades of volunteer work at homeless shelters—he was most proud of his involvement with the Jewish community. He was an active member of Ohef Sholom Temple, serving as a board member, Men’s Club president, and religious school teacher. In 1992 he received the Henry B. Kaufmann Award in honor of his participation and commitment to the Ohef Sholom community.

Bob was a man of great integrity, held in the highest esteem by those who knew him, but always humble in his kindness and generosity. His compassion was selfless and genuine, and always carried out with dignity and grace. His spirit lives on in the many people he influenced throughout his life. He will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him.

Bob is survived by his wife of 45 years, Vicki Anderson Wolfson, his daughters Amy B. Wolfson and Amanda Firoved (Ross), his four grandchildren Cecilia, Jayden, Levi and William, four brothers Gary, David, Richard and Bud Wolfson, many nieces and nephews, and a large extended family in Jacksonville. He is predeceased by his parents Murry and Renee Wolfson.

A memorial service was held at Ohef Sholom Temple. Donations in Bob’s name to the Ohef Sholom Temple Men’s Club.