I was a Northeastern University co-op journalism student working in the PR dept at Draper Labs in 1985 and 1986 and got to know Mr. Duffy well. He was quite the joker and always easy and eager to have a chat.  One day he had a big a laugh when  I showed up to my boss Gayle’s wedding at that Cambridge restaurant on Memorial Srive that rotated on the top floor . I didn’t have a suit jacket so the restaurant staff wouldn’t let me in. Mr. Duffy made sure they found me one - too big and white like a waiter - then teased me throughout the night saying he’d teach me manners yet. It was all in good jest and we all laughed . Don’t know why I thought of this almost 40 years later and almost 10 years after his death. To me he was just the kind, funny boss. Reading his obit, I had no idea I was in the presence of greatness at the time. RIP old friend.

I had the great honor of meeting with Mr. Duffy when I was organizing a protest against the nuclear arms race to be held outside Draper Labs on August 6, 1981.  I really admired his honesty and compassion and willingness to meet.

Ed and I were saddened to learn of BG Duffys' death. He lived a long and full life and contributed so much to the scientific advancement in our country.  His love of life and the ability to make all at ease was always evident while Ed worked with him at the Draper Labs when first in the USAF in the late 1960s. We were happy to know he continued always the loving family man until his death. We were richer for having known he and late wife, as a new couple to service life. His laughter and comraderie has stayed with us over a 49 year friendship. He would always encourage us to travel as often as we could, and to value our time together. So many good memories. Sending our profound sympathy to Jenifer and his entire family.  Sincerely, LTC (USAF,ret) Edwin V Harrington,Jr and Elaine R. Harrington of Leland,NC

So sorry I could not be at Duff's memorial yesterday at Arlington National Cemetery. 

I worked for Bob from 1977 until he retired.  He was the best President the Lab ever had.  He was on a first name basis with almost if not every employee here at the time.

Good luck and my best wishes to the entire family.

Both my son, Richard Phillips and I, Laura Phillips Davidson, both formerly of San Pedro, CA., offer our warm wishes for Duff and his marvelous family. Such wonderful times and memories for all the Phillips family.

Duff was so wonderful and all the family -- my son and I send our condolences.

Laura Phillips Davidson and Richard Phillips -- San Pedro, CA

Dear special Jenny, After learning of Bob's death I was able to pull up the obituary and wish so much I could attend his memorial tomorrow.  Few of us who knew him at Tower Point would have dreamed that the lovable, gentle and friendly guy we all knew and loved had lived such an incredible life in service to his country.  And none knew better than Bob how blessed he was in you, Jenny, especially through those last difficult years when I and so many others were blessed in your friendship.

Lovingly,

Ruth Witrak

Dear All,

Stan and I were sad to hear the news of Uncle Robert's passing, but what a fabulous life he lived.  He worked hard and contributed much to his profession, he lived well and loved his family and his country dearly.

I have so many wonderful memories-grilled swordfish (still my favorite fish), early happy hours at the beach house in Florida after early morning bird watching in the parks, a rich hearty laugh and watching him with his sister (and my mother) Janie. Stan and I still cherish the wonderful letter he wrote about his time in Italy before our first visit to that country.

He was and will always be my favorite Uncle.

He will be missed by so many but he enriched the lives of those he touched.  I will look forward to joining you in Arlington, please keep me posted.  

Lots of love to all of you, Jane and Stan Hooker

What a wonderful, sweet, smart, and generous man he was.  It was such a blessing for him to join our family and for his family to become part of ours. Love you Duff!

We knew Bob as "The General" And so enjoyed making him smile and laugh while providing entertainment for the residence at Arbor Point. Rest in Peace General. You are missed.

Duff, as we all called him at the MIT  LAB which became DRAPER LAB under Duff's leadership was the LAB's next President after DOC DRAPER, the LAB's founder. It is a great honor to have worked under Duff. He was the consummate Gentleman & helped us in a difficult time of transitioning from MIT ISTRUMENTATION LAB to DRAPER LAB. One of the best ways to thank him, was to name  the building he helped build the DUFFY BLDG. May the Good Lord gve him a very special place in his new home. Bob LEGER

I'm so sorry to hear the news, Mike.  What an impressive man your father was.  I'll be thinking of you and your family.

Honored to have known this wonderful man.  Lots of love to all the family.

Knowing Duff was truly a life enriching pleasure.  We know that things will surely change behind the Pearly Gates.

With Loving remembrance, and Love to Jenny and all the Family.  Peggy Bier

Robert "DUFF" Duffy was a colse and very supportive good friend to me and manny others when he was in both the Air Force and at Draper Labs. I will Cherish that association for the remainder of my life.

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

Robert A. Duffy

9 septembre 1921 – 4 février 2015

Hodges Funeral Home at Naples Memorial Gardens

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