Robert William Sauer
Bob was born in Elizabeth, New Jersey on April 22, 1943, the son on Robert Augustus Sauer and Margaret (Kelleher) Sauer. A family man first, Bob was devoted to his daughter, Carrie, and his wife, Kelly, with whom he recently celebrated 56 years of marriage
Bob’s remarkable federal career spanned 40+ years of dedicated service to the programs of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). He worked his way up through the agency and served in many leadership roles, retiring in 2002 as a member of the Senior Executive Service. Bob helped shape the history of multiple FDA product areas including medical devices, radiological health, veterinary medicine, and foods. He was the recipient of numerous awards throughout his career including the Presidential Meritorious Rank Award. Following his retirement, Bob began consulting at both FDA and NIH and was later joined by his brother, Don. He continued to consult for 19 years until December 2021, working with clients throughout the Agency.
Bob was dedicated to developing and mentoring others in their careers. He was extremely generous in sharing his time and knowledge and loved to support others as they navigated their career and life paths.
He was Chairman of the Board of the FDA Alumni Association (FDAAA) and was responsible for the establishment of the FDAAA Scholarship at Temple University for a Master’s Program in Regulatory Affairs & Quality Assurance.
Bob was a sports enthusiast who shared his love of games by coaching young players and passing his passion and knowledge on to others. He held Redskin season tickets for over 50 years, as well as supporting other DC teams. He was generous in sharing his tickets with friends and family and hosted memorable tailgating parties.
Bob particularly enjoyed time at his home in Bethany Beach at Bear Trap Dunes. Weekends found him teeing off with his buddies for a challenging 18 holes. The Sauer’s annual “Bloody Marys and Breakfast” event held every 4th of July was a highlight for his many friends and neighbors each summer.
Bob is the beloved husband of Kelly Sauer; devoted father of Carrie Sauer; loving brother of Maureen McKenzie, Donald Sauer, and the late Margaret “Peggy” Sauer; cherished uncle of Kathy Warren, Kelly Mulkins, Kimberly Wood, Patrick McKenzie, Robert Sauer and Jonathan Sauer. In addition he is survived by 15 great nieces and nephews and by his special extended family, the Kuldells.
The world Robert knew
Family milestones in gold, history for context
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