Robert Hugh Hammond, known to family and friends as Bob, passed away on Monday, September 29, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. He was a deeply devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend whose life reflected both brilliance in science and generosity in spirit.

Born on May 11, 1930, in Fullerton, California, Bob attended the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned his Ph.D. in Physics and met his beloved late wife, Anne. Bob was a proud father to his three sons: Eric, Andrew, and Mark; his daughter-in-law, Valerie; and his two beloved grandsons, Reid and Nathan, in whom he took great pride and joy. He also cherished his close relationship with his nephew Stan and his wife Sharon, as well as his niece Jeannie.

Bob loved the outdoors and passed that passion on to his sons and grandsons, with whom he shared countless adventures in nature. He also had a lifelong love of sailing, finding joy and peace on the water, and sharing that passion with those closest to him. To all who knew him, Bob will be remembered for his warmth, intellect, kindness, and steady presence.

He pursued his lifelong passion for physics by conducting his doctoral research on Nuclear Quadrupole Resonance in Superconducting Gallium, marking the beginning of a distinguished career as a physicist. Bob was among the early pioneers in the field of superconductivity, advancing the understanding of one of nature’s most extraordinary phenomena. He worked at both UC Berkeley and Stanford University, leaving an indelible mark on colleagues, students, and the wider scientific community.

Many generations of Stanford students and postdocs benefited from Bob’s mentorship in the lab. His dedication and example inspired them to pursue science at a critical stage in their careers. He thrived in that environment, working side by side with younger colleagues and guiding them with patience and passion. As Dr. Vladimir Matias, one of Bob’s cherished graduate students, observed: “Bob was a humble man, but with big, bold visions that were inspiring. I feel that my professional work is to continue his legacy.” Bob’s contributions were recognized internationally, culminating in the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Award for Significant Lifetime Contributions to Applied Superconductivity.

His lasting legacy lies in both nurturing his immediate family and mentoring a new generation of scientists—ensuring that his influence will continue through the many lives he touched and inspired. Bob was a wonderful person who lived a rich life, surrounded by the family, colleagues, and friends he cherished.

He is survived by his sons, his grandsons, his extended family, and many dear friends. He will be deeply missed, and his work will live on.

Details regarding a spring memorial service will be shared by the family at a later date. 

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