Donald John Roberts—a man of remarkable ingenuity, wit, intelligence, and devotion—passed away peacefully at his home on January 23, 2026, following a long illness. He was surrounded by his family and close friends.

Early Life and Education

Born on February 11, 1945, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, to Margaret (Riddell) and Donald V. Roberts, John lived a life defined by insatiable curiosity and intelligence. He attended Grant Park High School and the University of Winnipeg, where he earned a BA in Economics in 1967. He went on to complete his PhD in Economics in 1972 at the University of Minnesota.

A Distinguished Career

John was a world-renowned economist whose work influenced the entire field. His academic career began at the Kellogg School at Northwestern University (1973–1980) before he joined the Stanford University Graduate School of Business (GSB) in 1980. At Stanford, he helped shape the school’s intellectual direction, serving as the Professor of Economics and Strategic Management (Emeritus) with joint appointments in the Economics Department and the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research (SIEPR).

Over four decades, John published more than 100 works, including his seminal book, The Modern Firm, which was named The Economist’s Best Business Book of the Year in 2004. His expertise reached far beyond the classroom; his work with McKinsey and British Petroleum (BP) informed global corporate strategies and government policies ranging from international trade to COVID-19 response.

Honors and Global Impact

A Fellow of the Econometric Society, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and the Society for the Advancement of Economic Theory, John’s contributions were recognized globally. His accolades included the Fundación BBVA/IESE Prize for Economics and Management and the inaugural Douglass C. North Research Award. He was also deeply honored to receive a Doctor of Laws honoris causa from his alma mater, the University of Winnipeg.

At the GSB, John was a pillar of the community, serving as Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and for External Relations and Executive Education. He was a celebrated educator, receiving the GSB Excellence in Teaching award and the GSB Lifetime Achievement Award.

A Life Well-Lived

John’s thirst for knowledge took him to 65 countries across all seven continents. He held visiting positions at prestigious institutions including MIT, UC Berkeley, Oxford, the London School of Economics, and the Institute for Advanced Studies in Jerusalem.

While he could appear stern at first glance—the mark of a man who took his work seriously—that impression quickly gave way to his warmth and jovial spirit. He was famous for his energy, his generosity with ideas, and his fierce commitment to mentoring the younger generation. Outside of academia, John was an extraordinary chef and host. His legendary parties and his cassoulet were highlights for all who knew him.

Family and Remembrance

John was a beloved husband, stepfather, brother, grandfather, uncle, and friend. He is survived by his wife, Jayne Lange; his brothers Gordon (Georgia) and Douglas (Florence); his sister Barbara; his nieces Sarah and Lora; and his nephews Jeremy and Ian. He also leaves behind his stepdaughters, Julia (David) and Sarah (Ed), and his granddaughter, Mabel. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Kathy, his stepson, Joshua, Jayne's brothers Larry, George, Jim and sister Judy.

John was a man of remarkable ingenuity, integrity, intelligence and wit, but it is his devotion—to his work, his friends, and his family—that we will miss the most.  We miss him dearly, but we carry his warmth with us.

We are gathering the afternoon of May 8, 2026  at the Stanford Faculty Club, at 2 pm, to remember John.

Please rsvp at the link contained on this website

Further details and a link to view a livestream of the memorial, will be posted prior to the event.

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