Robert F. Fairchild of New York City and Quiogue died on Monday, February 16, following a weekend of fishing on his boat, the Grand Cru.
Born and raised in New York City, Mr. Fairchild graduated from the University of Pennsylvania and went to work for the family’s firm, Fairchild Publications. He joined The House of Burgundy in 1971, and at the time of his death was its president and chief executive officer. In May of 1994, he founded the Maison des Grands Crus in Santenay, France. On July 16, 1987, in recognition of his efforts on behalf of French wines, he was made a Chevalier of the Ordre du Merite Agricole by the French Parliament.
Mr. Fairchild was a member of the board of overseers of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, and the board of trustees of Avon Old Farms School. He was a former member of the board of governors of the Union League Club of New York, and was also a member of the Leash Club of New York, the Bath and Tennis Club of Palm Beach, Quogue Field Club, Quogue Beach Club and the Long Island Wyandanch Club.
He is survived by four daughters, Stephanie Griswold and her husband Roger, Suzie Kovner and her husband Bruce, Samantha Storkerson and her husband Chris, and Serena Sheldon and her husband Tyler; and six grandchildren, Caroline, Olivia, Liam, Oscar, Roger and Margaux.
A wake was held on Thursday and Friday of last week at the Frank E. Campbell Funeral Home in New York City. A funeral service was held on Saturday, February 28, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Thomas More Church in New York. Interment was private.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104 or Avon Old Farms School, 500 Old Farms Road, Avon, Connecticut 06001 would be appreciated by the family.
on Feb 25, 2009