Dr. Beyster’s Passing

Dear Friends,

Dad passed away peacefully early this morning. The family was with him. He was wearing his favorite sailing clothes, including an America’s Cup jacket and his University of Michigan cap.

We all knew this day would come, but it’s never easy to say goodbye. Although this is a very sad time for our family, let’s celebrate the life of this remarkable man. He touched so many lives and gave to others selflessly. We all want to make a mark on the world, and my father—Dr. J. Robert Beyster—really did. See a link to a copy of his obituary, which tells the story. We welcome comments on this blog.

Thank you for your love and friendship, and for being such an important part of Dad’s life.

Mary Ann

Dr. Beyster and family


182 Responses to “Dr. Beyster’s Passing”

  1. 1 Biily Gorman

    Mary Ann,

    So sorry to hear such sad news during such a joyous time of the year.

    It goes without saying that your father did so much for so many and will be missed by all those he touch throughout is spectacular life.

    My deepest sympathy to you and all of Dr. Bs family.

    With deep sadness for your loss.

    Billy Gorman

  2. 2 Allen Herskowitz

    Bob’s impact on my life is beyond computation. He created a business model that was pure genius and joining the cadre that followed his lead was a tipping point in my professional and personal life.

    There are not adequate words to describe the debt I owe to him as an individual and equally his ideas and ideals. They continue to serve me well.

    My heartfelt sympathies to the family.

    Allen Herskowitz

  3. 3 Mindy

    Rest in peace, Dr. B. I will deeply miss you and forever appreciate the lessons you taught me and the many ways you positively changed my life and my family’s. Thank you for everything. Love, Mindy

  4. 4 Marc Warburton

    A sad day indeed. Dr. B changed my life and made possible things I had never even dreamed about. His vision for employee ownership lives on in all he touched. God bless Dr. Beyster and his whole family.

  5. 5 Neil Gerardo

    If we are very lucky, an individual of profound impact arrives during our lives with enriching contributions to endure through all of time. Dr. Robert Beyster accelerated humanity. I cannot reason a greater honor.

  6. 6 Martin Staubus

    Given his age, we shouldn’t feel taken by surprise; and yet I feel stunned. Hard to imagine the world without him in it. My deepest condolences to the family. We’re marking the passing of a great man.

  7. 7 Donna Cunningham

    Our thoughts are with your family. Dr. Beyster was a visionary and he changed our lives. It was an honor to have worked for him.

  8. 8 Troy Sears

    Mary Ann,

    I am so blessed to have known your father. My mother worked at SAI in the 70′s when I was a child and your father was a role model for me.

    I am also grateful that I had the opportunity to take Dr. Beyster, Betty and his friends out sailing earlier this year. It was a beautiful day.

    I pray for your family and for the repose of soul of Dr. Beyster.

    Troy Sears
    Fleet Chaplin, San Diego Yacht Club

  9. 9 Gary Bell

    So many of us owe Dr Beyster more than he could ever know. He gave us opportunities to “pretend” we were running our own business. That is the way he encouraged us to act. It took a very special personality to pull that off and special he was

    Rest in Peace Dr Beyster

  10. 10 Steve Horstman

    grace, comfort, and peace to your family.

    my time working at SAIC under his genuine and unique leadership will always be recalled with deep appreciation and respect.

  11. 11 Jessie J. Knight Jr. and Joye D. Blount

    It is with great sadness to see such a wonderful husband, father, entrepreneur and leader take leave of us. While we only got to know him in the last 15 years of his life, as we met him when Jessie was CEO of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, where he had a profound impact on Jessie’s life.

    By his innovative example, he allowed Jessie to really appreciate and comprehend the heart and soul of San Diego’s entrepreneurial spirit and culture. Through interaction with him, we were blessed to get to know, and develop a deep and valued friendship with Betty and Mary Ann. We grieve their loss.

    In concert with these extraordinary women, our friendship will certainly ensure that his memory and legacy will be carried forward for many years to come. May he rest in peace.

    Respectfully,
    Joye and Jessie

  12. 12 Mark Albrecht

    At a time when “great men” seem to be absorbed with celebrating their own “greatness”, Bob Beyster was a great man who focused on the greatness of others and the greatness of collective achievement. His vision was clear and unsentimental, those who create value for the benefit of others should share in equal measure the rewards of that value creation.
    Simple idea, powerful model. A great leader, a great patriot, and a good friend, bon voyage! Mark Albrecht

  13. 13 Jen

    The SAIC community (past and present) feels a deep loss with this news. RIP Dr. Beyster.

  14. 14 Bill Weeks

    Dear Mary Ann and Family,
    Please accept my condolences and prayers. Dr. Beyster had an extraordinarily positive impact on many lives. He will be missed and we are greatly diminished.
    With care and concern,
    William L. Weeks

  15. 15 William H Bentley

    I met Dr. Beyster the second year I started working here at SAIC (1985). He came to Vallejo CA. to visit, and he bought us all pizza. I thought that was pretty impressive for a CEO, and over the years if I was fortunate to run into him, I always reminded him of it. It’s rare that I label anyone I know as both intelligent and Noble, but that he was. I’ve always told people he was the most impressive CEO/person I had ever met, and I truly believe it. As they say from my generation, “he was an awesome dude, and he will be missed”.

    Aloha, Dr. Beyster

  16. 16 Laura Metzger

    Condolences to the family. Dr. Beyster had an excellent model for business and I am glad I was able to participate in his grand experiment for so long! He left a strong legacy and will be missed by many.

  17. 17 Bill Hagan

    Mary Ann’s words ring so true. Dr. Beyster (he will always be Bob to me) was a remarkable man and he did make a mark on the world. I think that mark will continue in the hearts and minds of so many of us that he influenced, pushed, and helped. He made an indelible mark on my life and I know I am only one of many. He left behind a great legacy, a great company, and a great family. He also left behind a huge number of people whose lives are far better off because of his life’s work: SAIC. I will miss him.

  18. 18 Chuck Yengst

    I’ve known three families in my life; my immediate family; my extended Navy family, which I was directly part of for almost 25-years; and my current SAIC family, where I’ve been for over 18-years, after being offered a home by a member of Dr Beyster’s creative team. It’s hard to express the depth of my gratitude for this second career which has provided so much opportunity for me and my family. While I never had the chance to personally meet or be introduced to Jim, I did participate in meetings he chaired and felt like I had some feel for the man he was. For the Beyster’s family, I extend my deepest condolences for the loss of a husband, a father and one of the worlds greatest creative pioneers in business. He will be sorely missed….

  19. 19 Danya Dailey

    I am so sorry to hear of Dr. Beyster’s passing. I worked at SAIC for over 23 years. I felt that his vision and accomplishments were amazing. The company wasn’t the same when he left. I am proud to say that I have a stock certificate with his signature. His company was great. Thank you.

  20. 20 Peter Economy

    Rest in peace, Dr. Beyster. It was a real honor and pleasure to work with you all these years. You had a tremendously positive impact on so many people, and your legacy will not be forgotten.

  21. 21 Loren Rodgers

    The employee ownership world has lost one of its giants. Dr. Beyster was generous, wise, and bold, and his impact will not soon be forgotten. Both in his creative years and in his eloquence in talking about the company, he helped illuminate the path by which employee ownership best works.

  22. 22 Gael Tarleton

    My deepest sympathies go out to Dr. Beyster’s wife and children. I will never forget how he let me and so many of us pursue work we loved. He gave us the opportunity to make a difference. We were lucky to work for a leader who loved his nation. May his memory be a blessing.

  23. 23 Garth Dimkoff

    Mary Ann and Jim – My deepest sympathy for this loss for you and your family. I didn’t know your dad personally (met him only once, briefly) but he and his company saved my career. I was with a small struggling company (SEA) and SAIC sought out and acquired us. I subsequently had 20 years of rewarding work with SAIC. His ideals and energy contributed greatly to me and my family. It was a sad day when he left SAIC and even sadder now upon his passing.

  24. 24 Barry O'Malley

    I was one of those thousands of employees who “blossomed “at SAIC because of Dr. Beyster’s vision and philosophy. I always said I was a low tech guy in a high tech company. The culture he established made that possible. Ultimately, I became a Corporate Vice President in a Fortune 500 company. I owe EVERYTHING to Dr. Beyster. May God bless and bring comfort to your family and bring you great comfort in knowing how many lives Dr. Bob affected in an amazingily positive way.

  25. 25 William Sheridan

    SAIC was the best company I ever worked for, and has had a great influence on my professional life. The entire organization was so greatly influenced by Dr. Beyster’s philosophy of employee ownership and the empowerment that came with that. It was truly a Camelot period for me, and an experiment not to be repeated anytime soon. RIP Dr. Beyster.

  26. 26 Ron Zollars

    I’m deeply saddened today to hear of Dr. Beyster’s passing. Having first met Bob in 1985 when interviewing with him for a position in his La Jolla office I was impressed and immediately sensed something special about this man and this unique company he founded and was continuing to build. I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to work so closely with Bob for many years and to have been a part of the SAIC experience for nearly 23 years. I can attest that he “definitely walked the talk” and empowered the employees to push the boundaries and never settle for mediocrity. I enjoyed our conversations as we’d commute regularly to the east coast. There was no pretense with Dr. B. He fervently believed in employee ownership and generously shared it with the employee owners. He was a true visionary — well ahead of his time. I will miss my friend, and mentor always. Peace be with you Dr. Beyster and sincerest condolences to Betty, Mary Ann, Jim, Mark and the rest of your family. Ron Z.

  27. 27 Richard Soll

    Mary Ann, Betty, and Family,

    Please accept my deepest and most heartfelt sympathy.

    Bob was a remarkable man — a man of vision, of insight, and of humanity. He had an immeasurable impact on so many people (me included) and on the nation as a whole. He enriched us intellectually and spiritually, as well as in other ways.

    When I joined SAIC (then called SAI) in 1979, Bob told me, “You’ll like it here. We’re a company made up of free spirits.” I found that he was right, and we had the freedom to flourish as long as we contributed to the company and the country.

    Take comfort that so many of us will always cherish Bob personally and that his legacy will endure.

    Warmest regards,

    Richard Soll

  28. 28 Al Holman

    I can’t begin to put into words the significance that Bob had in our lives. His passing will resonate through tens of thousands of minds; he had provided a professional “cosmos” for us in which to thrive. Let me just say the obvious…
    he really cared. Al Holman

  29. 29 Paul Schaudies

    What a man! While I was blessed only to spend time observing Dr. B. during his last years at SAIC, he taught me volumes by the way he led and observed. My boss, Dr. Joe Soukup, (whom we also lost not too long ago) introduced me to Dr. B. as I was being recruited. It only took me a few minutes meeting with Bob to know that he was the leader I was looking for. God bless him for all that he has done for so many. He changed my life in a very positive way which I try to pass along to others. You will never be forgotten!!

  30. 30 Tsahi Gozani

    Dear Betty,MA, Jim and Mark
    The sad news reached me today while preparing a presentation where I named the persons who influenced me through my life. Bob’s name was up there. I knew Bob since 1964 and later, after joining General Atomics in 1966, we met also Betty and the children. Bob impact on my career in the USA, whether at General Atomic or at SAI and later when our paths separated, was immense. The culture of hard technical & honest work, corporate culture with shared rewards, employee ownership etc. guided me and those I worked with me, throughout our careers. Bob’s contribution to those who knew him and to the society in general will be everlasting.

  31. 31 Mike Flanagan

    Mary Ann, Mrs. Beyster and Family:
    My heartfelt condolences for Dr. B’s passing. I was fortunate to have had an opportunity to have worked for SAIC, and to have gotten to know him. He was an entrepreneur of uncommon foresight, and created an extended family in the form of a great company. His vision and leadership characterize him as, in my opinion, a truly great American.
    Rest in Peace, Dr. B.
    With heartfelt respect,
    Mike Flanagan

  32. 32 Karen (Ross) Aued

    Rest in Peace, Dr. B!

    The world has lost a true visionary. Dr. B made a great impact on all of us at SAIC, in so many ways. I was so grateful to be able to work with him early in my career, there were so many things I learned from that experience. I was with the company for 24 years, he always said that the stock was the “glue” but looking back I think it may of been him!

    He was so passionate about employee ownership, and those of us who lived it for more than a couple of years know that we were part of something VERY Special.

    To Betty and “kids” may God Bless You! We celebrate with you, a life well lived!

  33. 33 Patrick Potter

    Mary Ann and Family,
    Dr. Beyster was a great man and a selfless leader. He was innovative, generous and disciplined in all that he did. I believe many people recognized that during his career and throughout his life. I hope that his ideas and his legacy may be carried on with our memories of him. Rest in Peace. My best to you and all the family. Pat Potter

  34. 34 Brenda Baird

    Was shocked to see this in Facebook today…………the old SAIC family will miss him and have missed him since he last worked at the company……….best company I’ve ever worked for the last 23 years of my career. Always loved the idea Dr. Beyster created the company with in 1969………..being employee owned; and he mentioned it first thing at every interview I’d ever seen him do. Made me proud to be a part of that! It was sad when the new CEO changed that right away. I will never forget how fortunate I was to have worked with many wonderful people in that organization at Campus Point headquarters. RIP Dr. Beyster…..

  35. 35 Pete Mikhalevsky

    Mary Ann, Betty and Family, Please accept my sincerest condolences. Bob created an incredible company and those of us that were lucky enough to get caught in his orbit, share his vision and do things that we never thought possible will never forget him. He was a unique, rare and wonderful man.

  36. 36 Douglas B Smith

    Dr. Beyster was a guiding light for so many of us. He was a very rare leader who cared for the intellectual environment of the company, for the individuals who contributed to the company, and created an inspiring place to work instead of merely enriching himself. He will always be an industrial icon to so many of us; a patriotic and very intelligent person who truly made a positive difference in the world. There are few like him, there have been few like him, but I hope, with his example, that there will be more people like him in the future.

  37. 37 Linda Edwards

    I am so sorry for your loss and for the world’s loss of a great person. Remember all of the joys and forget the sorrows. I know that Dr. B will be remembered with love by a lot of people that experienced his leadership and kindness.

  38. 38 Renee

    M.A.,
    I only met your Dad a few times at social events, but I always felt like I knew him because Duane talked about him and his ideas so much. He was greatly admired by Duane and, from what I’ve read, this is a common reaction from those he touched. Be proud of his life well-lived.

  39. 39 Bill Proffer

    Betty, Mary Ann, Jim and Mark;

    Our deepest condolences. Dr. B was a brilliant scientist and also pretty much defined the word entrepreneur. We will all remember the man fondly and history will record what he accomplished for the country and so many employee owners. Twenty years ago this month I had the incredible opportunity to join SAIC and it has been a fantastic journey. Thank you, Dr. B. – Bill, Terri and Quinn Proffer

  40. 40 Elliott Allen

    Dr. Beyster was a true visionary. SAIC was never the same without him

  41. 41 Brenda DeMartini Ruhl

    I’m shocked and deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Dr. Beyster. May his family take some comfort in knowing that he had a profound impact on the tens of thousands of us who were part of the SAIC family. The world lost a very great man today.

    Rest in peace, Dr. B.

  42. 42 Ken Bickel

    My condolences to your family and may Dr. Beyster rest in eternal peace. He was a wonderful person in so many ways. I’m proud to be a part of his legacy. God bless.

  43. 43 Ron Kendrick

    Mary Ann, Mrs Beyster and Family;

    Please accept our heartfelt condolences to your family on the passing of Dr. Robert Beyster. My wife, Twila Johnson & I both had the great fortune to work for SAIC and Dr. Beyster for over twenty years during the time of employee ownership. These years were truly a highlight of our professional career. Dr Beyster provided ourselves and thousands of other scientists and engineers the opportunity to perform exciting, challenging, and innovative work in a broad range of technologies in service to the national security. I have only the fondest memories of all of my encounters with Dr. Beyster. He brought out the very best in me and everyone I knew that worked for him at SAIC. He truly lived as a noble giant among men but at the same time offered those working with him an opportunity to also be giants. He is missed. He will always be that noble giant in my mind and he continues to inspire. We celebrate his life and the joy he brought to so many people and to this nation.

    Rest in peace, Dr. Beyster
    With our greatest respect,
    Ron Kendrick & Twila Johnson

  44. 44 Jordan Becker

    Dr. B. was truly a unique individual who mentored, guided, and enriched many people. While I am saddened by his passing and thinking of his family, I will celebrate his life and immeasurable accomplishments. And I will honor him by living the principles he taught, and sharing his influence with the next generation.

  45. 45 Betty Bidwell

    Mary Ann,
    I’m sad to hear of the passing of your father, Dr. Beyster. As a long time SAICer I was a witness to the successful Company he founded and the many lives he influenced. His basic principles, ethics and patriotism stand out. He will be missed. B2

  46. 46 Ed Murphy

    A hole punched in the fabric of our lives for those who knew Bob and were so much better (and better off due to employee-ownership) for having known him. Joining SAIC and getting to know Bob altered the arc of my life in such a positive way. Bob built a great company by hiring great people (not just “filling positions”) and not many would have the courage and conviction to do what he did today. When a CEO who also started his company in 1969 asked Dr. B why SAIC was so much bigger than his company, Bob asked the CEO “how much of the company do you own?”. The CEO said, “all of it”. Bob replied, “well, that’s your problem”. He was a visionary who was selfless in terms of sharing the ownership and he created a model that so many smaller companies emulated. It was a great ride, a good life. Thank you for all you did for so many and for your country. Peace!

  47. 47 Chris Smith

    Mary Ann, Betty and all the family, my deepest sympathy is with you. Dr. B. was a great inventive genius in every sense of those words and touched so many lives through SAIC and his own personal set of values, leadership and ethics.

    Here is what I remember most: “None of us are as smart as all of us”.

    This poster hung behind his desk at Cave street and I would glance at it often when I was learning something there (which was all the time).

    Please know that you are not alone at this time, and that thousands, and even hundreds of thousands of those individuals, families, friends and beneficiaries that he touched are grateful for the association. I know that I am. God speed, Dr. B.
    Chris Smith

  48. 48 Tommy Rendine

    My heart goes out to Mrs. Beyster and family for the loss of a Husband and Father. Dr. Beyster was the real deal. His word was his deed. I am forever grateful to have been hired as an employee of SAIC in 1985. I witnessed the contribution and the generosity of this special Man. He was the energy, the integrity and the magic within SAIC. And we were all captured on a personal level in being part of his great company. Our great company. He granted us Employee Ownership! We all have much respect for what he created for so many privileged employees, and for so many fortunate customers. Farewell Dr. B. You will be missed, but forever remembered.

  49. 49 KA Okagaki

    I’m very sorry for your loss. i worked at SAIC for 20 years, and remember Dr. Beyster as an innovative, intelligent leader. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy in the company and will be greatly missed.

  50. 50 Randy Ade

    My family sends our heartfelt condolence to your family. Know that the rays of light that emanated from Dr. Beyster illuminated many lives and guided scores of entrepreneurs. I never imagined I would work for any company or anyone for very long – but 20 wonderful years at SAIC went by before I knew it – loving every day. That’s who Dr. J. R. Beysterwas to me – a true leader. Thanks for sharing him with us.
    Randy Ade

  51. 51 Linda Runyeon

    Dear Mary Ann, My deepest sympathy to you and your family during this difficult time. Your father’s vision and generosity changed my life. The work was rewarding both professionally and financially in ways I never thought were possible. I spent most of my career at SAIC and made lifelong friends from the experience. We were truly blessed to be part of something so unique and special. He will be missed.

  52. 52 Loraine Gregory

    A very sad day for the Beyster family and all who knew & worked with the remarkable Dr Beyster. I have been with SAIC (now Leidos) for 17 years and Dr Beyster was a true inspiration. God bless, Loraine.

  53. 53 David Bacon

    Betty, Mary Ann -

    Though we new this day would come, it is a great loss nonetheless. My thoughts are with you. I had the luck of joining SAI in 1974 and though it took some back and forth before I stayed permanently, it has been the most unique place to work anyone could imagine. Bob’s vision was excellence and in person there was no pretense. All those who believe in entrepreneurship have lost a pioneer today. Ad Astra Per Aspera.

  54. 54 Mary Hyder

    I am sorry for your loss. I am grateful that I had the opportunity to be a part of SAIC and experienced the rewards of employee ownership. Kudos to Dr. Beyster’s vision and generosity.

  55. 55 Mary Wolfe

    Dr. B founded a company that gave so many of us the opportunity to excel. His emphasis on entrepreneurial spirit and the freedom to challenge yourself to be great changed the lives of so many, myself included. The SAIC family lost a great man. My thoughts and prayers are with the Beyster family.

  56. 56 Steve Rizzi

    It was an honor to know and work with Bob. He taught me what have become my core values about business, and about life. He taught me the importance of making a difference, and to have the passion and tenacity to take on the hardest problems.

    Bob’s legacy is a better and safer world. He inspired multiple generations of people to make it their business to run at those hardest problems with passion, creativity, and a belief that new ideas, hard work, and science can make a difference.

    Bob Beyster made a difference, and his selfless act of spreading the wealth of the company through employee-ownership was tangible evidence of a man that thought with both his brain and his heart. Generous, humble, and principled.

    Thank you Bob – from all of us.

    Rizzi

  57. 57 Ellen Hatcher

    My deepest condolences to the entire family of Dr. Beyster. What a true blessing Dr. Beyster was to have had the vision, foresight and determination to build what he did in SAIC and thereby touch and change so many lives. I was truly fortunately at a young age to find opportunity at SAIC and spent 27 wonderful years there. SAIC changed my life and how I viewed the world. It was always such a privilege and honor to be a part of the SAIC team and feel like I was contributing to a better world. I only hope that Bob knew just how deeply and profoundly he impacted those who had the good luck to work for his company. The world needs more strong leadership and role models like him. We all mourn his passing.

    Ellen Hatcher

  58. 58 Tom Root

    We are deeply saddened to hear of Dr. Beyster’s passing. He and the company he founded had a deep impact on the life of our family. Our thoughts are with his family at this time. He will be missed by many he never knew he touched.

  59. 59 Angela Lunsford

    Dr. Beyster was a visionary and an amazing founder. His treatment of employees stands out the most in my mind. SAIC was never the same once he left. He will be missed.

  60. 60 Michele Garb

    Beyster Family,
    I am so sorry for your loss. I was an employee owner and wouldn’t be where I am today without the visions of Dr. Beyster. He was an amazing man. What made him truly great was the ability to put substance under his visions to create realities.

  61. 61 Bill Marlow

    Bob – your legacy is all of us you touched – there is no better legacy for a man. While we morn your passing we rejoice in having had the privilege to know you and to know you are moving on to the next great adventure. Thank you for being you and touching each of us as individuals.

    Best, Bill

  62. 62 Connie D Samson

    Mary Ann
    I was so sad to hear the news of your father’s passing. His passion for employee ownership will not be forgotten and I am very proud to have been part of his vision. My condolences to you and the Beyster family.
    With deepest respect,
    Connie D. Samson

  63. 63 Christopher Poulos

    I am glad I was able to meet Bob during one of the times I was out in San Diego for leadership training.I still work for SAIC and miss his leadership and guidance to this day. His views on employee ownership and business in general will be carried on because of the many people he touched over his life.

    God bless

  64. 64 Larry Janning

    It’s amazing how one man can positively touch so many lives. The truly amazing part was that Dr. Beyster served as a mentor to so many of us. He was a brilliant man who shared his talent, wisdom and friendship for the security of our country and the betterment of mankind. He’ll always have a special place in our hearts.

  65. 65 Art Bruckheim

    All I can say is that he was one of the few people I’ve known who made you feel like he was your best friend. I will miss him. My sympathies to Mary Ann and the Beyster family.
    Art Bruckheim

  66. 66 Linda (Miller) Benefield

    I am so sorry for your loss. My father, Ed Miller, worked with Dr Beyster at General Dynamics and SAIC. He always had high praise. When my father died Dr Beyster was so kind to my family and made sure my mother was included in the SAIC family. She enjoyed going to stock holder meetings while they were here in San Diego and Dr Beyster would always seek her out and speak with her.

  67. 67 Sam Visner

    We have lost a great man, a leader of singular vision. Bob Beyster did just about everything, and he did it incredibly well. Scientist, businessman, sailor, mentor … Bob inspired everyone around him to set the highest standards. I remember Bob, too, as a man of great modesty and thoughtfulness, someone who believed in sharing the wealth (literally!) and whose example will be missed. Few people have done as much sheer good as Bob Beyster.

  68. 68 Bruce McKinney

    We just heard of the passing of our former boss. They were halcyon days when he was at the helm. Glad we had him in spirit and our last reunion. We sent him pictures and received a nice note saying he enjoyed them and thanking his San Antonio crew for our work. Vaya con Dios Dr. Beyster.

  69. 69 Venkat Durgam

    Mr. Beyster has left a legacy that will be remembered for ages to come. A great example of a true entrepreneur. We salute your sir and may your soul rest in peace.

    God Bless the Beyster family.

  70. 70 Mike Baran

    To the Beyster Family, my heartfelt prayers and condolences on your loss. May you take comfort in knowing how much Bob meant to so many of us as a true servant leader and mentor. Those of us who were fortunate enough to be part of the greater SAIC family, and who had the grand privilege to know Bob personally, are all saddened at his passing. And, we are all the better for that experience. Rest in piece, Bob.

  71. 71 George Ullrich

    From his earliest days at Los Alamos, Dr. Beyster developed a deep and abiding appreciation for the U.S. nuclear deterrent. When I first met Bob in 1976 I was a newly minted project officer at the Defense Nuclear Agency (DNA) and SAI was already a prominent contractor at the Agency, making significant contributions towards our understanding of nuclear weapons effects and the hardening of strategic military systems to such effects. It was still the height of the Cold War and we were conducting annual underground nuclear tests at the Nevada Test Site. Bob’s engagement with the nuclear community and with DNA in particular was remarkable. On at least a quarterly basis (with Gil Binninger in tow) he would make the rounds at DNA, not just hobnobbing with the Generals and senior civilians, but talking to the lowliest project officers to ensure that SAIC was delivering on its commitments. During the 1990’s I served with Bob on the STRATCOM Strategic Advisory Group (SAG). At this point SAIC’s nuclear portfolio was but a few percent of its total revenue, yet Bob would spend hours agonizing over the details of his presentations to the SAG. Bob, you have been a tremendous asset to the nuclear community. On behalf of all your friends and colleagues of the former Defense Nuclear Agency, Godspeed and rest in peace.

  72. 72 Tyler Orion

    Dear Mary Ann and family –

    I am so sorry for your loss. San Diego has lost a very special leader. What a touching outpouring of love and remembrance. Rest in peace, Dr. Beyster.

    Condolences to you all.

  73. 73 Leon Pawinski

    Betty, M.A, Mark and Jim

    I am sorry for your loss.

    Bob made many personal and professional relationships during his life and I was lucky enough to have both. His leadership, generosity and friendship has made my life and that of many others a wonderful experience. He led with the ethos that “none of us is as smart as all of us”. I have to wonder if one of us really was really a whole lot smarter but was such a great leader that we always felt he was just a very special part of our team. Shakespeare wrote:

    Moreover, he hath left you all his walks,
    His private arbours and new-planted orchards,
    On this side Tiber; he hath left them you,
    And to your heirs for ever, common pleasures,
    To walk abroad, and recreate yourselves.
    Here was a Caesar! when comes such another?

    Good bye Buddy. I will miss you.

  74. 74 Sean Landry

    I was just informed this AM from fellow SAIC co-worker that Dr. Breyster had passed on and I was saddened to hear this. My own father worked with Dr. Breyster during his years with NIC (National Intelligence Council) and flew out to San Diego to work with him on a project (or two, I think!) regarding projects that SAIC and him worked on.

    My father said that Dr. Breyster was a great man — one with a lot of integrity, honesty, fairness, and was very committed to making things happen. Recently, I just had the great fortune to join SAIC and my own father couldn’t be happier for me because he believes that SAIC is a great company with an even greater future. He also believes that SAIC will be a great place for my talent and fortitude to go onto greater things there. Believe me, I have been feeling very blessed to be at a place where Dr. Breyster began and grew. I am extremely happy here and I feel VERY challenged here. Now I know why so many employees stay for a very long time here at SAIC. Dr. Breyster founded and grew a very successful company and left it in very capable hands for the future. He definitely knew how to nuture and grow employtees here—its evidence here for many an employee has stayed here for a long time…In testament here, I recently met a fellow SAICer that has been here for more than 35 yrs!!!

    That says a lot about SAIC. ‘Nuf said.

    Thank you Dr. Breyster for creating an awesome company and RIP!

  75. 75 Terry Fitzpatrick

    Dr. Beyster is an exceptional visionary leader who I was fortunate to have worked for in my 24 years with SAIC. He is the very rare individual that drives and inspires others to extend their capabilities to achieve greater accomplishments in helping this nation and our citizens. I find myself asking over the years since ” What would Bob say or do?”. The wisdom he imparted is truly cherished and I mourn his loss for his family. To Bob, it was always about the intellect and advancing progress. He recognized the value early in SAIC’s history of rewarding all contributors with employee-ownership. He once said, “Terry never forget, our company should only hire the best people!”. He is the top shelf of the best!

  76. 76 Ananthakrishna Sarma

    I am very saddened to hear about the passing of Dr. B. Even though I have not had the good fortune to meet him many times, I cherish the memory of meeting him once during one of his book signing events at David Bacon’s house.

    He was a shining example of a leader, a scientist and a businessman with morality. He led by example. He was always big on owning up to and correcting our mistakes – a very rare trait in the business community (IMHO). He was instrumental in our Ethics policies. He valued SAIC’s true assets – his employees.

    He will be missed by everyone whose life he has touched. But we can be sure that his legacy will live on.

    My heartfelt condelences to the Beyster family.

    Sincerely,
    Sarma

  77. 77 Lynne

    My condolences for your loss. I was an employee at SAIC for 22 years and I remember the years when he was there as the most productive and the happiest. He was such a wonderful influence for all of us and we truly loved working for him.

  78. 78 Rochelle Kline-Casey

    Mrs. Beyster, Jim & Mary Ann – My condolences to you and your family. I have great respect for Dr. Beyster and it was a privilege to work for SAI, later SAIC, for 22 years. All of San Diego benefited from the company that he built.

    I heard Dr. Beyster speak several times. I also had the pleasure of working with Jim on the VACIS project and of meeting him and Mary Ann at La Jolla Music Society events.

    While this is a sad occasion, I hope your many wonderful memories will keep you good company and, with time, ease the pain that you feel now.

  79. 79 Cindy Van Mouwerik

    So devastated to learn this!! This world has lost a great, GREAT man – and heaven has gained one spectacular angel. Thank you Dr. B for all the lessons you taught all of us and for making our work ‘fun’ while employed at SAIC.

  80. 80 Michael Smith

    My thoughts and prayers are with the Beyster family today as they grieve the loss and celebrate the life of a loved one. As a long time SAIC employee (since April 1983) and one who benefitted from knowing and working with people both inside and outside the company, I can’t image having a more fulfilling opportunity to pursue my interest, expand my capabilities, learn from others, and accomplish meaningful objectives. The environment, incentives, encouragement, and freedom offered by SAIC derived largely from Dr. Beyster’s belief in people and possibilities inspired many of us to achieve beyond our wildest dreams. And to do so in an environment that maintained its integrity and commitment to public service and addressing problems of national significance. For that I am most grateful.

  81. 81 Bob Coullahan

    Few have demonstrated the extraordinary ingenuity, leadership and vision matched by Bob’s tireless hard work and generosity. An unparalleled patriot, he served our great nation with distinction in ways that few can understand and appreciate. His impact on my professional development and the opportunities he allowed me to pursue were unimaginable before I joined SAI in 1982. Heaven is now a better place.

  82. 82 Christine Wolf

    I never met Dr. B. personally but his impact on my life is tremendous. When I joined SAIC I was a single mother with three small children. Little did I know then that I was about to embark on a career that would span 15 years (so far). It was because of the spirit of entrepreneurialism at SAIC that enabled me to pursue a career in this industry. There seemed to be no limit for what I wanted to pursue. Everyone was supportive and interested in being the best of the best. I am forever grateful to my brother for getting me the interview and to SAIC, the company Dr. B. and the employees built. He was a great man and will be missed by many but his spririt lives on in the employees of SAIC, both former and present.

  83. 83 Peggy Walkush

    My deepest sympathy to you Mary Ann and to your mom Betty and brothers on the passing of a truly exceptional man. I’ll never forget the first time I saw Dr. B as I was videotaping one of the 8 hour long marathon technical meetings during meetings week in 1983. Someone pointed him out and said – “that’s the CEO Dr. Beyster.” I was surprised at how unpretentious and approachable he was. Just taking in the meeting and asking questions like everyone else. A few years later when I had my first meeting with him at the Foundation for Enterprise Development he asked me to write a speech for him on employee ownership that he was to give a few days later at the NCEO conference in Washington. Can you do it he asked? Of course I said yes – he wanted to meet and see a draft at 6:30 am a little more than 24 hours later. I left the meeting and thought “I don’t know anything about employee ownership.” Little did I know I was about to get the education of a lifetime – learning about one of the most powerful business philosophies in the world – a mix of broad capital distribution, performance-based incentive compensation and corporate culture transformation – with SAIC become the largest majority employee-owned company in the world. Beyond that, Dr. B was a mentor to me and so many others – leading by example – and demonstrating uncompromising ethics, patriotism, humility, and unrelenting hard work (I remember him in one of his speeches saying “I knew I wasn’t necessarily the smartest guy in the room, but I knew I could outwork them all”). And oh how he did! We all struggled to keep up with Dr. B and his constant missives. I remember when this new thing called the World Wide Web came on line. He sent me a note saying we needed to get the Foundation for Enterprise Development on the web. I didn’t even know what the web was, nor did most people (there were like 70 sites up at that time). A day later I got another note asking if we were on the web yet. And the notes kept coming until I contacted Jim Schwartz to find out what the heck the World Wide Web was – and then hired an intern to program a site so the Foundation could be one of the first 100 or so sites on the WWW. The memories are flooding back… so many stories to tell…Dr. B (he told me to call him Bob but I never could) was such truly exceptional and visionary person and his impact on my life is immeasurable. I hope to have the opportunity to share memories with many of the other people he impacted at the public memorial next year. My heart goes out to his family. I am thinking of you all!
    Warmly,
    Peggy Walkush, peggy@athomesandiegolive.com

  84. 84 Al Toepfer

    I owe much to Dr. Beyster for the opportunity to grow professionally and work on challenging programs that served the Nation during my 25 years at SAIC. I and my family would like to express our deepest sympathy and condolences on the passing of this great entrepreneur and leader who had positive impact on so many lives.

  85. 85 David Reasons

    Mary Ann,

    My condolences to you and your family on your father’s passing. My years at SAIC under Dr. Beyster’s leadership were some of the best in my career, and his employee ownership vision was a significant part of that. I have enjoyed following him in the time since the SAIC days through this blog and other outlets. He will be missed.

    With deepest sympathy,

    David S. Reasons

  86. 86 Rodney Rumford

    Mary Ann,

    I just learned our your Dads passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I remember when I fist met your father as he was starting this blog. He had a lot of knowledge, wisdom and wanted to share this with the world thru this blog. He wanted to give back; and that is the sign of a great man.

    The fact that he took up this challenge of blogging at his age always impressed me. People his age were not blogging in 2006. His desire to understand blogging I found very compelling. His writings were about sharing knowledge and helping people. I will always remember him for embracing this blog with great enthusiasm.

    The world is a better place for him having been here. May the people that he inspired continue to make this world a better place. RIP Dr. Beyster.

  87. 87 Dan Payton

    Betty and Family-

    Jane and I offer you our deepest sympathy on our loss of a friend and mentor. From the early sixties at Los Alamos until today, we have regarded you all as very special. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

  88. 88 Rex Ballard

    The Ballard Family sends its deepest and warmest condolences to the Beyster Family. I was deeply saddened to hear this news. I’m sure this is a sad day for everyone that was lucky enough to be part of the extended family of SAIC employee owners that Dr. Beyster so generously “gave birth” to. I know this is a very difficult time for the family having had to recently cope with the loss of a parent myself. I hope that you can find some modicum of comfort knowing that Dr. Beyster gave so much to this Country of ours and in many ways the World, through the amazing work that SAIC performed over the many years. The testament of the man that Dr. Beyster was, are the many proud and loyal employee owners who pay homage here and in their heart.

    In Sympathy,
    Rex Ballard

  89. 89 Tammy Parker

    I am so honored to have been part of the company led by Dr. Beyster. His leadership and vision were so inspiring. Mary Ann my most heartfelt condolences to you and your family during this time. Dr. Beyster influenced and inspired so many people, his legacy lives on.

  90. 90 Gangaram Singh

    RIP Dr Beyster. Your work at SAIC was used, in many of my industrial relations classes, as an example of how employees can share the wealth that is created by an organization. And so it was an honor to meet you to prepare for a discussion of the SAIC Solution at SDSU. At that seminar, along with Tom Darcy, you articulated the model. I kept on pressing for you to identify the core values that motivated the movement. You did not answer, but I got my answer from observing your action. I am delighted that my two children had an opportunity to meet you. Both of them remember your visit, and in your way you had an impact on them too. I will say a prayer for you, and I send my thoughts and prayers to your family as they navigate your exit from this world.

  91. 91 keith nightingale

    Within the span of several generations, a very few personalities will emerge that are universally recognized as Great Men. These people, these very few, accomplished extraordinary things for the benefit of their people and their society. Bob Beyster was certainly one of those.

    We should all feel immensely privileged to have walked in his shadow and benefited from his truly great gifts-not the least of which he was a really good person. We are all now less with his absence in body but his spirit lives on in the many lives he has touched.

    May he enjoy an eternity of fair winds and a following sea.

    Keith

  92. 92 Julieann

    Many blessing to the Beyster family at this sad time.
    Dr. Beyster was a brilliant man and I was fortunate to work for his company and meet him. His legacy will live on….he will be remembered.
    In sympathy,
    Julieann Billings

  93. 93 Rick Klobuchar

    Truly a great and wonderful man. I joined SAIC in 1990 as part of Corporate Business Development. As a nuclear scientist myself, I was always amazed at his understanding of science and technology and its impact on our society. He was legendary in our staff meetings and awe inspiring. Dr. Beyster knew how to take calculated risks for betterment of our society and the company that he loved. He was a true patriot. Our society needs more people like him with his vision and the will to not only succeed, but to be the best at accomplishing formidable tasks.

  94. 94 Dave Trotta

    I would like to pass along my deepest condolences to the Beyster family at your time of loss. I am truly grateful to have been a part of SAIC and was lucky enough to interact with him on two occasions. Myself and my family was very fortunate to be a part of SAIC and his vision. May he rest in peace. God bless you Dr. Beyster!

    Dave Trotta

  95. 95 Phillip Young

    The passing of a great man makes us contemplate their impact to the World and their lasting legacy. It was such a privilege to known Bob and gathered inspiration from his leadership. His legacy will live on through those of us that learned from him that employee ownership matters and forms to essence of companies that we can be proud to work for.

    My sincere thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at the time of his passing.

  96. 96 Dana Sheil

    Dear Beyster family,

    I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed working for Dr. Beyster at SAIC. I started in August of 1989, and although I was not one of the earliest employees, I was certainly one that appreciated his leadership as well as his great spirit. Since he retired, I have remained with SAIC, and many times I have found myself saying, “What would Dr. Beyster do in today’s business environment?”

    I cannot thank you, his family, for sharing such a great man with us!

    God bless you all, and peace be with you.

    Dana

  97. 97 Ann

    Thank you Dr. Beyster. Rest In Peace and thanks for keeping up your unique, creative, inspiring spirit “on the other side”.
    Ann

  98. 98 Robert Long

    He will not be forgotten by those of us who were lucky to have come aboard this company.

    Hope you, the family, take comfort in the many responses that will continue to flow in recognizing him and his work.

  99. 99 Dennis Campbell

    My sincere condolences to M A, Mrs. Beyster, Mark & Jim. Our hearts grew heavy upon hearing the passing of Dr. B. Reflecting on the past has reminded me of the greatness Dr. B shared with so many of us. It was a pleasure to work under Dr. B’s vision and direction for many years. Peace be with you Bob.

  100. 100 Rob MacDonald

    My condolences to the Beyster family – I worked with Dr Beyster right out of college writing employee ownership articles for the F.E.D. and SAIC. That was 25 years ago and I am still with the company; although it certainly isn’t the same company it was back then. Dr. B was a visionary and I was fortunate to be able to work with him. I am grateful to Peggy Walkush for hiring me way back when and introducing to a man and a company that would change my life. RIP Dr. B!

  101. 101 Marty Fritts

    Mary Ann, Mrs. Beyster and family,

    I am very sad to hear of Bob Beyster’s passing. He was such a good man! The world needs more men like him. I offer my condolences as well at this time of your loss.

    But Mary Ann is exactly right. Even as the shock and sadness of the news sank in, my memories of working at SAI, SAIC and Leidos flooded in. All the good projects and great people over all those years – made possible by one really great man. We do need to celebrate the life of this remarkable man. He was quite an example: a generous man who realized his vision of employee ownership – and one who changed my view of what a good businessman, and a good business, could be.

  102. 102 Ed George

    I consider myself fortunate to have been part of the great company that Dr. B created. Employee ownership and the company’s entrepreneurial culture motivated me to build a successful career, do things, and make contributions that I otherwise could not have accomplished.

    My warmest condolences to the Beyster family. Thanks, Dr. B, for your legacy.

  103. 103 Rochelle Lowe

    I offer my condolences to the Beyster family. My thoughts and prayers are with the family for peace and comfort to your hearts. When I started at SAIC in 1985, I had no idea what an impact Dr. Beyster and my family of SAIC employees would have in helping to chart my course through life. Thank you for sharing so much with us through the blog — and thank you Dr. Beyster for the vision you shared with us all.

  104. 104 Forrest Church

    Mary Ann,

    My deepest condolences for the loss of your Dad. He was a great man that positively impacted the lives of so many people, both within and outside of SAIC. The comments on the blog and the web sites that published the article are a testament to that. Heaven is definitely a better place.

    Fair winds and following seas Dr. B.

    Forrest Church

  105. 105 Bob Berg

    The news of Dr. B’s passing hit me like a punch to my stomach. I offer my most sincere condolences to all of the Beyster Family.

    I can’t imagine how different my life would be today were it not for J. R. Beyster. I had the pleasure and honor to work at SAIC for 25 years and Dr. B was always an incredible support and exceptional role model to follow as I grew with the company. There’s little I can add to the tributes already posted about his visionary brilliance, passion for employee ownership, personal integrity and ethics, “exceeding customer’s expectations” and his dedication to doing things that helped our country to do and be “the best”.

    While he had a reputation for being somewhat intimidating and quick with the sharp questions you least suspected, he always made me feel at ease and comfortable to talk with in almost any setting. I’ll be eternally grateful to Dr. B for all he did to advance my career at SAIC and for the “fun” it was to work for SAIC during what I refer to as “The Golden Years of SAIC” when he was at the helm. We looked forward to going to work and our “employee ownership culture” that he created made us feel as though each and every one of us “made a difference”.

    Dr. B left the world a better place through all of the generous contributions that he made to so many personal lives, worth while causes, important initiatives and critical projects to support our country. Again, I can’t imagine how different my life would be today were it not for J. R. Beyster.

    Rest in peace Dr. B.

  106. 106 Si Coleman

    Dear MA,
    Knowing your father was truly a privilege, and meeting him was due to you. Coaching you in bobby sox softball (more years ago than we can count) enabled me to meet him and your mother. He was a true visionary. Talking about employee ownership of corporate employers, the growth of San Diego, and the University of Michigan were just a few of the topics we discussed. Countless numbers of people, both in San Diego and afar, are blessed because his footsteps crossed our paths. No matter the age, his loss is still painful, and I offer my sincere condolences.
    Sincerely,
    Si Coleman

  107. 107 Dawn Neith (Steinman)

    My condolences to the Beyster family. For 15 years, SAIC was my home. I learned a lot about quality, ethics, and values from the company, and more specifically, from the direction and guidance of this great man. It was an honor to work for him.

  108. 108 Megan Lim Blair

    Dear Beyster family,
    We are all sad for your personal loss and for the passing of a treasured community leader, both in business and philanthropy. Many of us have great respect for Dr. Beyster’s employee ownership model and admire his dedication to the model. Thank you for all that your family has done to better San Diego and all that you continue to do.

    Megan Blair

  109. 109 Lisa Grubb

    I’m so sad to hear this news. My husband, Edd, worked at SAIC for over 20 years and had one encounter with Dr. Beyster in the Palo Alto office. We know death is part of life so my prayer is Edd has greeted Dr. Beyster in heaven. Thanks for creating an employee-owned company that facilitated so much genius tech. What an amazing contribution to humanity and America.

    Sincerely,
    Lisa Grubb

  110. 110 Douglas Loeser

    Bob contributed so much to so many. I, and thousands of others, directly benefited financially from being part of the amazing concept that was SAI. Yet, the considerable financial rewards were small when compared with the opportunity to work in the stimulating intellectual environment he created in the company. Every day we were part of a great social experiment in which we demonstrated that employee ownership was a competitive corporate model with payoff for both the employee and customer. I feel fortunate to have been a small part of this adventure led by Bob’s brilliance, industry and compassion. As was typical under Bob’s leadership, not only did we do something ground breaking, we had a great time doing it!

    My deepest condolences to the Beyster family.

  111. 111 Joe Pasquale

    I’m deeply sorry to hear of Dr. Beyster’s passing. Dr. Beyster was a great man in every sense, who touched so many lives in very positive ways, including mine, and I am so honored to have known him. I will always remember our conversations, his keen intellect, his words of advice, and his warm and friendly smile. My deepest condolences to the Beyster family.

    Joe Pasquale

  112. 112 Mike McWilliams

    I met Dr. Beyster on a plane (travelling coach) returning from a business trip in 1983. We struck up a conversation that soon turned to my line of work and he let me blab on. As we deplaned, he handed me his business card and invited me to come visit. Before looking at the card (he hadn’t introduced himself) I remember thinking what a nice fellow but not sure of the reason for the invitation – perhaps a job opportunity?. A few months later, facing layoff, I decided to take him up on his offer – but still not sure of the intent. After making an appointment, I showed up in La Jolla and was greeted with my agenda (interview schedule) for the day. Thumbing through the annual report, I noticed that most of my interviewers were pictured on the back cover under “Board of Directors”. I had a feeling it was going to be a good day.

    Upon leaving SAIC many years later, I cashed in some of my SAIC stock to help buy the house of our dreams. Then, several more years later, drew on SAIC stock proceeds again to purchase and grow San Pasqual Winery – which my wife and I happily run today and fondly refer to as “the winery that SAIC built”. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to have shared in, and benefited so greatly from his vision of employee ownership. Thank you Dr B for the opportunities you provided to so many of us.

  113. 113 Bruce Ahern

    I had the unique opportunity to observe the growth of the tech industry in San Diego during the 80′s and 90′s as a publisher. I could see the impact of two men on the local tech economy. One was Irwin Jacobs and the other was Dr. Beyster. Irwin Jacobs helped build a mega business that changed telecom, the other taught tens of thousands of technologists how to be entrepreneurs and grow businesses for themselves. A lot of us did just that and we carried his vision of employee ownership with us. Dr. B has left that and all of us as his legacy. I’m very proud to have worked with him.

  114. 114 Carl DeWoody

    I had the absolute honor of being employed by SAIC in early 1986 and after a very period of time fell in love with this company called SAIC (employee ownership) never heard of such a thing. So blessed to get to meet Dr. Beyster and the wonderful people who called SAIC home. When I think of the legacy created I continue to be amazed. Dr. Beyster was always so grateful for all of the hard work that was perfromed and the great science being performed. I always felt like if America needed our help (SAIC) we were always there and ready to serve.

    I will always think of you and smile, it was an honor to call SAIC home for 27 years.

    Jimmy, MaryAnn, Betty, my prayers are with you.

  115. 115 Sharon Harrod

    I never thought in 1985 I would end up at SAIC for 20 Years! I did leave for a while but like many others came back. Dr. B was a great man and provided amazing opportunities for so many of us for such a long time. The Company was not the same after he left. We referred to the early days as ‘the good ole days”. Work was fun even when we were pulling all nighters to get proposals out! I miss those days. My condolences to the Byster family. Rest in peace Dr. B. you created something extraordinary for thousands!

  116. 116 Rick Goodwin

    I am deeply sad to hear of Dr. Beyster’s passing. My condolences to the Beyster family. I lost one of my heroes today. I am so blessed to have worked at SAIC when Dr. Beyster was at the helm. He made me feel important, challenged me to take on hard problems, always had time for me, and continually showed interest in my career! He always took time to invest in the Sr. technical talent in our company! I loved that about him! Through all his success in growing a company from a hand full of physicist to over 40 thousand employees, he never lost interest in the science!

    I appreciated his leadership as well as his great spirit. He cared for people – his family, his employees, his customers and all those who serve our country!

    He made everyone around him better than they were alone! He is missed greatly!

  117. 117 Cathy DeSimone

    I am sad to hear about Dr Beyster’s passing. He was a great man who I always had alot of respect for. I am so proud to have been part of SAICs family for 23 years. Working at SAIC changed my families life in many positive ways. He touched so many lifes. My thoughts and prayers are with the Beyster’s family. God Bless!

  118. 118 Cheryl Louie

    Mary Ann:

    So many people have already said so well all the emotions I feel. Your Dad had an enormous impact on my life, and the lives of my children. He was truly a visionary, no doubt, but he also liked to have fun, and he made SAIC in his image, a fun and exciting place to be! Please give my love to your Mother.

  119. 119 Ed Ashley

    My family and I are sad that we all lost such a great man. Dr Beyster created a unique and wonderful company I was privileged to join 23 years ago. He certainly had the right vision for his company and passed that on to all of us. His example instilled such great pride in the company within all who worked here. Most of us felt as if we belonged to something far more significant than just another technology company. I thank him for my good fortune and for his great stewardship of this unique company. Our sincere condolences to the Beyster family.
    All the best to you all.

  120. 120 Joe Swiderski

    Mary Ann and Family,

    Very sad and deepest condolences for your loss. My time working around Bob was truly an inspiration and gave everyone he met directly, and those indirectly, the motivation to challenge all and question everything in that we could achieve anything we set our minds too. It was he as a role model that allowed me to work at SAIC for over twenty years and then start several companies of my own and now help other businesses succeed and flourish. He taught me that a company that works with and for all employees brings us all together into a tightly knit community and family. Bob will be missed by so many and never forgotten in the legacy he has left us all. Our deepest sympathies and warmest regards.

  121. 121 Charlie Stevens

    When I joined SAI in early 1969, I was one of a handful of scientists comprising a tiny consulting firm. Having worked for Bob at General Atomic, I was confident that we would be successful. With his outstanding leadership, managerial talent and vision, SAI evolved into a large, great company, a wonderful place to work, and a significant contributor to the nation’s scientific and engineering resources.The opportunity that Bob provided me to share in that exciting experience truly benefitted me in life, just as he provided for so many others. I will always remember him with respect and gratitude. He will be missed. To Betty, MA, Jim and Mark, I send my deepest condolences.

  122. 122 Jan Denny

    I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Beyster at a division Christmas party December of 1999, just after I’d transferred to a fast-growing commercial division. I told him how much I admired him, he asked what I was working on, I told him I’d been traveling to San Francisco every week for web development, then he asked if I’d met my division manager yet. After I said “no”, Dr. Beyster walked me over and introduced me to my division manager. How’ze that for an introduction?? Dr. Beyster created a wonderful, $8 billion employee-owned company where employees felt valued and empowered to expand as far as their skills and imagination would take them. Thank you, Dr. Beyster.

  123. 123 Steve Comber

    Mary Anne and Family

    I am so very saddened by the news – but find comfort in knowing Dr. B is in better hands.

    The people he touched and the service he delivered to our Nation will never be forgotten

    I worked for SAIC / leidos for 29 1/2 years – and actually just resigned last Friday

    I miss the company Dr. B established. it has never – and never will be the same

    Leadership is not learned – or mimic’d. It’s either real or it doesn’t exist.

    Dr. B had it all – but most importantly real leadership and vision. He cared deeply for his family / his company / his customers and his Nation

    Thank you for sharing your dad with us

    Love him. Miss him

    steve comber

  124. 124 Brad Ward

    Mary Ann-

    I’m very sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. He was truly a great leader and visionary. America lost one of our best yesterday.

  125. 125 Virginia Rice

    Dear Beyster Family,

    My heartfelt sympathies and condolences go out to you. I’ve been dreading the day that we would hear of Dr. B’s passing, and it’s now hard to imagine that he’s gone from the world that we know.

    I’m so glad that he was with family and went peacefully.

    He had such an impact on so many lives, including mine. I never imagined when I started with SAI almost 35 years ago what a special place had been created. How lucky we all were to have known him and been touched by his greatness.

    He had an incredible capacity to remember everybody and seemed to know everything that was going on in the company. It’s been a few years since the last time I saw him – we ran into him walking on La Jolla Shores beach. I’ll cherish that memory.

    May the warm and loving thoughts of so many bring some comfort and peace to your family at this sad time.

  126. 126 Frederic Bobberts

    Mary Ann-

    For you, and Jim, Aunt Betty, and Mark, we in the extended family express our deepest condolences. We hope that what will be remembered is the inspiration he gave to all of us – the many who worked for him, who helped to build SAIC, who shared his passion for teaching, entrepreneurship, and sailing, and those of us who knew and loved him personally. I’ve spoken to my mother and she wishes to express her deepest sorrow.

    Our prayers go with all of you, and God Bless,

    Fred, Frederic, and Helen (Beyster) Bobberts

  127. 127 Carl Scragg

    Bob Beyster was one of those rare individuals who really made a difference. A brilliant scientist and a natural entrepreneur, with his unique model for employee ownership he created an environment in which the employee owners enjoyed the opportunity to work hard on interesting and exciting projects, while sharing in the financial success of SAIC. Under his leadership, we really did feel like employee owners. And even though Bob interacted regularly with some of the most successful and influential leaders of our country, he never lost the ability to make his employees seem like special friends. I will miss him dearly and remember him fondly. My sympathies go out to the entire Beyster family.

  128. 128 June Wu

    I am deeply saddened to hear of Dr. Beyster’s passing. His philosophy of treating employees as the owners of the company made SAIC the home away from home for many of us. RIP Dr. Byester.

  129. 129 Donald Swankie

    Dr Beyster on acquisition of Telcordia made it a point regularly to visit, east coast, and insure the tone was set we were part of the SAIC family. My daughter got a summer intern role in Public Relations. An assignment was to refresh all senior management Bio’s [yearly]. Most of these were ‘Bellcore Fellows’ – giants in the Industry. Staffs of 100s.

    In driving home, I asked how that project was going. [She know no one of course] She noted it was going well most were provided from the VP etc [or staff]. But she could not reach ‘a Dr. Beyster’ for a few weeks, to date.

    Although explaining ‘why’ and suggesting an alternate plan, Dr. Beyster did within a day or two return the call to the summer intern, and helped to refresh the information.

    A true lesson in leadership she has not forgotten from 16 years ago.

  130. 130 Charlie Deel

    Mrs. Beyster and family.

    Our nation, and the thousands of past and present employee owners of SAIC, have lost a remarkable man with the passing of your husband and father. I hope that you will find some consolation in the words expressed by those who had the privilege of working for Dr. Beyster.

    I left SAIC after 27 years. My most single cherished memory that I took with me was a small note that he took the time to write expressing appreciation for my small contribution in support of a USSTRATCOM program. I had only been with the company for two years. I still have that note, a reminder of how true leadership and humanity can inspire a young person at the beginning of their career.

    Fair winds and following seas, Dr. Beyster.

  131. 131 Mechelle Sudinski-Stall

    Dr. Beyster will be so missed and what a great life he gave to us all. I started working for SAIC in 1981 as an Employee Owned Company which sad to say it ended a few years ago. Today I still work for SAIC and thank Beyster for making a dream come true and to be a part of Beyster’s Legacy. My sincere condolences to the Beyster family.

  132. 132 Mary Lou Dunford

    To the Beyster Family,

    Dr. Beyster left a wonderful legacy and I’m so grateful to him — for building a company where I can say I truly enjoyed getting up and going to work for over 20 years; for molding an environment where creativity was encouraged and I felt free to think new thoughts and try new ways; for allowing me to feel part of a big family of very intelligent, zany people; and rewarding my work so I can enjoy the colorful life I lead today.

    Thank you for sharing him with so many of us; he’ll be sorely missed.

    Mary Lou Dunford

  133. 133 David Holtzman

    I would like to express my condolences to Mary Ann and the rest of the Beyster family. I was the head technical person and CTO at NSI after the acquisition of Network Solutions and as such I had the dubious privilege of being point man for all of the detailed, nit-picky and annoyingly detailed questions that Dr. Beyster had about what we were doing. The advent of the commercial Internet, especially the nascent online culture, was strange to many people at the time, especially to those who were still involved with government contracting and although many elements of the situation perplexed and sometimes disturbed Dr. Beyster, he piloted SAIC and NSI through the turbulence like an ace.

    Indeed, out of all of the people that I interacted with at that time, I hold the most respect for Dr. B. His attention to detail was legendary. I remember the first year that I was at NSI, I submitted a large capital request to upgrade the security and processing power of the equipment at the Internic. It was badly needed and the prior management refused to do what had to be done. Dr. B called me up, personally, which scared the bejeezus out of me and made me walk through and justify every line item on the list, every computer, graphics board, memory chip–even I/O cables. After three hours, apparently satisfied, he announced that he would now trust me and approved my request. From that moment on, he was my biggest supporter at the board level. Whatever the technical people needed, we got, and it was due to Dr. Beyster.

    Without him, I have serious doubts that the Internet would be what it is today. I give him the credit for avoiding serious incidents during his stewardship of the online world and hope that someday people will recognize his role as champion and advocate of cyberspace.

    Rest in Peace, Dr. B

  134. 134 David Binns

    Like thousands of others, my personal debt to Dr. Beyster is enormous.

    He’ll be remembered for many extraordinary accomplishments, not the least for being one of the most innovative and impactful leaders of a worldwide effort to promote broad-based employee ownership. The amazing story of SAIC’s successful employee ownership system, which was critical to SAIC’s start-up success and developed and revised over decades of experimentation, became a model for many other companies.It is a hallmark of Dr. Beyster’s broader vision of entrepreneurship, technical excellence and a commitment to the principle of shared risks and rewards and will be one of his lasting legacies.

    It’s an honor to have been associated with such a remarkable man.

  135. 135 Troy Garrow

    Describing, in words, the impact Dr. Beyster had on the lives of our Employee-Owned SAIC Community is impossible. His solid, ethical character and “Giving” approach to business management created a culture that is unique in today’s society. I’m blessed that I was part of his extremely successful grand experiment called SAIC.

  136. 136 David Doherty

    I was deeply sadden to hear of the passing of Dr. Beyster. As so many have said here, Dr. Beyster had a profound impact on my life. I owe much of my dream of entrepreneurship from the lessons I learned working at SAIC. As I work to build my own company I hope to model it in his vision. Dr. Beyster will be missed and he will never be forgotten by the tens of thousands of employee owners who had the privilege of working at SAIC. My deepest condolences to Dr. Beyster’s family and loved ones.

  137. 137 Scott Stark

    What a terrific person Dr. Beyster was. I first met him riding the elevator up to the 7th floor at Campus Point, he insisted. I worked on the 3rd floor, for CHCS. The Founder of SAIC who cared about all employees so much that he gave each one the real opportunity to be a stakeholder in the company. My condolences to the Beyster Family. I will never forget the opportunity to meet him, speak with him and enjoy the work place the he created.

  138. 138 Lee Lescano

    The Salvation Army will always be thankful for the incredible support of Dr. Beyster. Not only was he a brilliant scientist and innovative founder of an employee-owned San Diego company, he was also a compassionate man who had great love for those in need. He was a generous supporter of The Salvation Army and particularly had a heart to help homeless women and children at our Door of Hope campus.

    We were blessed and grateful to know him. We shall miss him.

    Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time.

  139. 139 Susan A. Davis

    It was a heady experience to sit next to this brilliant and innovative man on one memorable flight many years ago. Reading the notes of all of you who worked with him and he considered his “partners,” tells me what a national treasure he is and how fortunate San Diego is to call him our treasure. Thank you Beyster Family for sharing and nurturing this truly remarkable pioneer whose passion embraced all those he touched.

  140. 140 Michael Cook

    Please accept my condolences.

    Dr. B was a great man, and I am really sad that he has passed away. He was terrific leader, with a keen understanding of how to build a business, but the thing that I will remember the most about him was the ease with which he could interact with people at every level. He had a warm heart and a great sense of humor. Thinking about all of those spiral notebooks he’d fill while meeting with all of us brings me a smile.

    My prayers are with the Beyster family today.

  141. 141 Ron Ishii

    My deepest condolences to the Beyster family. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to work in that amazing enterprise that Dr. Beyster built. I will always cherish the memories I have of my years at SAIC and the handful of times I got to talk to and learn from Dr. Beyster. May he rest in peace.

  142. 142 J. Craig Venter

    Betty, Mary Ann and family, Heather and I were deeply sadden to hear the news of Bob’s passing. Bob was unique in so many ways but one trait that I truly appreciated and enjoyed was his youthful energy, curiosity and love of science. He was someone that I considered a personal friend as well as a big supporter of science and the Venter Institute. He seemed to find particular joy in supporting and following the results of the Sorcerer Expedition with our ocean sampling off the southern California coast as well as being the key sponsor of the Expedition leg from San Diego to the Baltic, Med, and Black Seas where millions of new genes were discovered. Our teams at the institute always looked forward to interacting with Bob as well as sampling with him from his yacht. We are very pleased and proud to have the Robert and Betty Beyster Conference room at the Venter Institute. I have often said that if you want immortality the way to achieve it is to do something meaningful with your life: Bob has done that in so many ways and will be remembered.

  143. 143 Ron Parkinson

    To the Beyster family: My wife and I want to offer our most sincere condolences upon your loss. We have both worked for Bob and deeply appreciate how much he has given to us, to our coworkers, and to the larger world he worked in with such effect. His memory will always be with us personally and his accomplishments will stay with us all.

  144. 144 Robert Craig

    Dr. Beyster, My Dear Friend, I am going to miss you so very much!
    You are my role model in so many different ways, and I
    feel blessed that you opened up, and allowed me to be
    a part of your life. In the 20 years we knew each other, you taught
    me so many life lessons on a variety of topics.

    In addition to my family, you have positively helped so many other
    people through out this country. I feel so indebted to you
    and your family for all you have done.

    I am going to miss the time we spent together, but will forever
    have fond memories of our work meetings, field trips, lunches,
    and trips. I know sometime in the future we will see each
    other again, and will continue our outings. Until then, take care
    my good friend, and Rest In Peace.

    Betty, Mary Ann, Jim, Mark, and Lan, – I know how hard this time
    is for you, but know that Dr. Beyster was the great man he was because
    of his family. You all had a big part in his life, and allowed him to
    do the great things he accomplished. This allowed him to touch
    so many other people in a positive way. I thank you so very much!
    I also want to thank you for making Claire and I feel welcome
    with your family. If there is anything we can do, please let us know.
    Our thoughts and prayers go out to you.

  145. 145 Robert John Rabe

    Rest in peace Bob and have a peaceful trip to the other side. I will always remember those heady days working for JR on the LINAC at General Atomics in the early 60′s. The lessons learned there will always remain with me. You were a bright and courageous light. Farewell.

  146. 146 Ann Zvanovec

    Mary Ann, Betty and Family,

    My sincerest condolences to you all. Dr. B. was a great leader who contributed in so many ways to the lives of his employees. I worked at SAIC for 17 years and got to know his enthusiasm for employee ownership. His patriotic feelings and desire to do the best job possible was an outstanding characteristic. He had a sign that said: “None of us is as smart as all of us.” His was a life well lived.

    Ann Zvanovec

  147. 147 Allison

    What a great man!!! His legacy will live on for years! Please know that along with impacting his immediate family, he changed the lives of so many around him!! What a blessing he was too many many people. Teaching honor and kindness. I will always remember the values he founded at SAIC and how he taught others to actually live out those values and not just give lip service. Thank you for sharing your Father, husband and more to so many people.

  148. 148 George A. Borun

    “Bob” Beyster had a gift which perhaps even he did not recognize as such. He seemingly intuitively recognized talent and ambition in his fellow scientists. They usually came to him with a small contract or idea that required a larger organization to grow successfully. He encouraged them to join SAI and work in their area of expertise for the common good of the entire company. This concept eventually led to Employee Ownership where all benefited for working just a little bit harder and created funds for engaging in larger contracts.
    I would like to point out that many employees after running their own sub-company within SAI recognized that they were now confident enough to start other areas of business and run them successfully. Not in competition with SAI, but in areas not fitting the defense contract thrust of the early company. In that regard, many new companies were formed and succeeded in their own right. Much like a hatchery, where the chicks became roosters.
    So Bob was at one time or one way or another helpful for the success of many careers in science.
    Well you knew I started three companies in the product area of scientific instruments and you approved. Products were not a good fit in study and research contracts. Thanks Bob
    George A. Borun Ph.D.
    Retired scientist, now dog walker.

  149. 149 Jon Brundage

    Mary Ann & family

    Dr. B was a visionary, an astute businessman, a leader, a dedicated sailor and most important to me he was a gentleman. His legacy is left on many people who had the unique experience to work for someone of his talents and vision. We are the beneficiaries of that knowledge and share a legacy along with the many, many charitable foundations that he supported and originated. He was truly remarkable man that touched many lives. He was to me a gentleman. I am grateful for having the opportunity to have the “Beyster Experience”. Peace and comfort to you Mary Ann, Mrs. B and your family. You are all in my prayers.

  150. 150 Brian McEnany

    My condolences on the passing of Dr. Robert Beyster.

    I worked for him out of the Washington Office as part of the first generation of SAIC employees. His vision of how to grow a business into a giant science and technology firm was one of a kind and may never be repeated again. I learned much from listening to his views on the defense industry and how SAIC should position itself to take advantage of its many facets. His ideas on entrepreneurship created a very flat and lean company that surged and retracted as the market changed. SAIC never advertised – the customer’s knew Dr Beyster’s employees and often asked for them by name. He created a legend in the defense industry and will always be remembered for his insight and wisdom.

    Be Thou At Peace

  151. 151 Phyllis Corkill

    I had the privilege to work at SAI-SAIC for 20 years in Corporate working in the payroll department starting out in La Jolla in the El Patio building. We relocated a number of times to finally be on Campus Point Drive. So many memories regarding Dr. Beyster. Was in awe of this man, his brilliance, humility, popping in as though he were one of us. Always saw him at noontime doing his run and usually had a companion worker accompany him. The company was so good to all of us and we had many privileges available to all of us “big” or “small”. Attended Dr. Beyster’s book signing at Warwicks and there he was taking time to chat with me as he was signing my book. Also, lest I forget….the exciting time during the America’s Cup and seeing that great boat with the logo of SAIC on the sail! Later at one of our Employee Day’s the America’s Cup trophy was there on display for all to see!

    Dr. B….may you rest in peace. You have left your legacy with the rest of us and I cherish having a copy of your book “The SAIC Solution”. I look forward to attending your memorial service next year.

    My sincerest condolences to your family.

  152. 152 David Groce

    The Beyster Family–

    Except for only a few months, I never worked for an organization that wasn’t headed by Bob (General Atomic Accelerator Physics Group, SAI, SAIC, JRB Associates, La Jolla Research and Business Associates [the "LJRB"]). I and my family owe so much to him and SAIC. He was an ideal that many of us could never emulate.

    In early May 1969, I was still working at General Atomic. One evening, Bob called me at home to discuss a paper we had jointly done for the Armed Forces Radiation Research Institute. This conversation led to a lunch, and a discussion of possible places to work other than General Atomic which Bob wanted me to check out as well as SAI. A bit later, I had four job offerers; I accepted SAI’s even though it was at a lower salary than another startup. Less than three years later we put that startup out of business by dominating specific contracts with lower cost and better technical people.

    In the earliest days of SAI, Bob (starting in February 1969) and I (starting in June 1969) both consulted for the Los Alamos Meson Physics Facility for several years. We both turned in our Los Alamos consulting checks to JRB Associates, thus benefiting the overall company with the income from our “second” jobs.

    Money was tight for that first year, but then many government contracts could be unsolicited, sole-source, non-competed, cost-plus-fixed-fee for a few $100k or less. Paid assistance in National Cancer Institute planning grants for hospitals and medical schools were almost never competed. This allowed us to start the nonfederal biomedical program. It was a very different contract environment back then!

    Bob seemed to be involved in every program even the cancer center planning. He came to know why electron linear accelerators were better than radioactive sources, and what an oncologist was. The bio-med contracts became a means to cover the time sold for some SAI members having contract difficulties.

    We all worked an extraordinary pace with long hours and much travel, but no more than what Bob did. Some startups don’t realize what extra is required to succeed. The success of SAIC is due solely to Bob and the people he brought into the company. Employee ownership really helped get those good people.

    I will miss Bob, but he is still here in his books, the friendships with the people he hired and in our memories.

  153. 153 Joel Bengston

    For Betty, Mary Ann, and the rest of Dr. Bob’s family:
    I console for your loss, but should recognize that you had the opportunity to live close to a really remarkable man. You should be able to tell that from the many sympathetic comments received already. As a late-comer to SAIC (1983) I join in adding my thanks to those who had the opportunity to work with him. I recognize many on your list of well-wishers, and am sure that it will only grow. Please let me know if I can help you in any way.
    Joel Bengston.

  154. 154 Joseph Blasi, J. Robert Beyster Professor

    Mary Ann, Betty, Jim, Mark, Lan, and other members of the Beyster Family,

    My heartfelt sympathy on the passing of Dr. B. He has filled all of us and the world with so much inspiration and so many good deeds and life lessons and visions of his values and hopes for the country and for the economy, that he will surely be a continual presence in our lives. I remember many conversations and profound and challenging ideas coming from him but always mixed with memories of his direct kindness and strong graciousness. I remember when he came to speak to my undergraduate class and the gusto with which at the pasta dinner afterwards he paid attention to each young student as if they were the only person in the room. He was a great listener to everyone no matter who they were. That is one lesson I learned from him. His way of effecting change by being soft spoken and his uninhibited approach to laying out a powerful vision for the possible role of broad-based employee stock ownership in the U.S. and the world economy had a profound effect because as a practical business leader and a national figure, he mastered the details. His personal example of implementing employee ownership and studying the phenomenon his entire adult life has not only made the serious practice and objective study of this idea richer, but led to huge strides in the presence of the idea in American business and, importantly, the much larger role of the study of these issues in higher education. His creation of the J. Robert Beyster Professorship to coordinate the study of these issues and his strong pioneering support of the Beyster Fellowship program that has affected tens and tens young scholars at so many Universities, is a lasting legacy that will continue year after year to profoundly affect higher education. I too will miss him but I too see so many reminders and realities of him around me that he very much still remains on the stage for me. Joseph Blasi

  155. 155 Kathy (Wiscott) Morgan

    This is a man who got it. Dr. B fully understood what it meant to be an American business. Starting as a small company, he and his employee-owners grew SAIC into a multi-billion dollar corporation. Dr. B wasn’t a bean counter out to make a buck like the many so-called CEO’s, today. He was a very unique and gifted individual – a PhD in nuclear physics, a brilliant business mind who perfected and fostered employee-ownership, a trusted advisor in whom many top government agencies and officials came to for answers. Dr. B promoted education, physical fitness, ethics and charity. He set-up a program where the company would pay for college tuition for employees who wanted to earn a degree that could help benefit the company. SAIC paid the majority of my expenses earning my BA in Business Administration. He provided for us a low-cost, top-notch fitness center and program. He initiated the employee computer loan program where employees could purchase computers using the company’s 50% discount, a 2-yr interest-free loan and payroll deductions to make the payments. Employees were allowed to take advantage of all of the company’s discounts from FedEx to travel to computers. Dr. B allowed us to collect and organize massive amounts of food and toy donations each holiday season to help out the local Battered Women’s shelter, foster kids, and military families. Dr. Beyster’s greatest accomplishment, though, was making a family out of 44,000 employees and numerous stakeholders. He truly cared about his employees and his customers. Dr. Beyster is a true hero of American business, one whose extraordinary example we need to follow today to get our big businesses back on track. I will miss you, Dr. B! You are one of my few role models and heroes. Rest in peace! P.S. Could you please watch over my little business, too, as my guardian angel and guide me to success? Thanks!!!

  156. 156 Michele Prosser

    Betty, Mary Ann and family,
    I’m so sorry for your loss. I’m sure it gives you much comfort that you were with him and that he had the love of his family surrounding him as he passed.
    I’m thinking and praying for you and your family at this difficult time.
    God bless,
    Michele Prosser

  157. 157 Robert E Carter

    Betty and family,
    My sincere sympathy on Bob’s death.
    Thinking of him and you brings back lots of fun and fond memories of his early days arrival in Los Alamos, and our working together. He and I produced a pretty significant but obscure piece of research in the mid 1950s, and then he moved on to first a different job at Los Alamos, and then to General Atomics. When I moved to MD, he and his group at GA worked on contract with me for several years, all before SAI was born. And of course, one of the best memories includes you, and your wedding in Austin.

    Bob Carter

  158. 158 noreen

    Heartfelt prayers for Mr. Beyster and his family. Thank you for making a difference in the world.

  159. 159 Regina Sebastian

    Thank you Dr. Beyster! You made the world a better place. Your vision and the company you founded are a testament to your wonderful life’s work. Thank you for the opportunity to work for a company that truly rewarded excellence. RIP Dr. Beyster… Well Done!

  160. 160 Tony Fang

    Mary Ann and Family,

    I just returned from my China trip and learned this sad news.

    My sincere condolences on Dr. Beyster’s passing. We have lost a graet and visionary leader of employee ownerships. The generous contribitions made by Dr. Beyster through The J. Robert Beyster Faculty Fellowship at Rutgers University have made a huge difference on my career and life for which I am forever grateful.

    Thank you Dr. Beyster! The world has become a better place becasue of you. You will be deeply missed.

  161. 161 Jeff Johanning

    My prayers are with the Beyster family. Dr. Beyster was such a visionary with employee ownership of a great company. Those of us that have been with SAIC/(Leidos) for a number of years under his leadership remember his vision. Thank you for allowing me be be a part of it.
    Jeff Johanning

  162. 162 Michele Prosser

    Dr. Beyster was a visionary who pioneered the concept of employee ownership as he grew SAIC into a multi billion dollar corporation.

    I was deeply honored to meet him through my work at The Salvation Army. I greatly admired him as a true leader who wanted to share his success with his employees and customers. He was someone I always wanted to meet and when I did, I found that despite the legend he was, he was such a kind and down-to-earth man. I immediately understood why so many of his employees held him in such high regard. He was an attentive listener and made everyone feel important.

    Dr. Beyster and the Beyster family have also generously given back to our community. At The Salvation Army’s Door of Hope, Dr. Beyster helped us build Betty’s House, new apartments where we provide a residential transitional housing program to homeless women with children. Since last year’s opening of our new Transitional Living Center, we have doubled our capacity and have provided a safe haven for 102 mom’s and children.

    Mary is one of those moms. She came to Betty’s House with two sons from an emergency shelter after escaping an abusive husband. Upon entering the TLC, she wrote down her goals: obtain her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license, find a stable job, and get her driver’s license and a car. She immediately enrolled in a CNA program. Next, she obtained her driver’s license despite her fears. Her case manager helped her obtain a low-interest car loan so she can now get to work, school, and pick up her children without having to spend hours taking the bus. Today, she is working full-time as a CNA and living independently with her sons.

    This is just one story, and thanks to Dr. Bob, Betty and the Beyster family, we look forward to helping many more families like Mary’s for years to come.

  163. 163 Mary Ostrander Beed

    Betty and Family,

    I was so sad to hear of your loss. Though I personally never knew Dr. Beyster, I feel fortunate to know Betty, who will no doubt continue Dr. B’s legacy. Thank you Dr. Beyster for paving the way for a better San Diego, whether it was through the workplace, the America’s Cup or helping build an amazing San Diego.

    Warmest Regards,
    Mary Ostrander Beed

  164. 164 Tracy Baynes

    My heart goes out to Dr. Beyster’s family. He was a great man. His generosity touched the lives of so many. I was privileged to know him through his generous funding of a College-Prep and Leadership Program for low-income high school students – STEP: Student Expedition Program (www.stepexpedition.org). His funding supported focused guidance and leadership training to over 100 low-income students whose dream it was to be the first generation in their family to obtain a college degree. Over the last two years, 100% of our students have gone directly to college from high school. Over our 10-year history, 87% of our alumni are in college or have obtained a college degree. In contrast to this, only 8% of the students in the high schools with which we work obtain a college degree. Because of Dr. Beyster’s funding, our students are not only graduating from college, they are graduating from some of the top schools in the country, including Duke University, U Penn, Georgetown, Notre Dame, Emory, Colgate, UCLA, the U.S. Naval Academy, Williams College, Bowdoin College, Pomona College, and Smith College to name a few. The ripple effects of the support Dr. Beyster provided are tremendous. He has helped to break the chain of generational poverty through success in higher education in over 100 low-income families. He will be missed!

    Tracy Baynes
    President, STEP

  165. 165 Al Mondelli

    Bob Beyster was a unique individual wig both the vision and talent to build a small science services company (SAI) into a multi-billon dollar enterprise (SAIC) without ever compromising his core principles of employee ownership, integrity and national service. I was privileged to work with him and for him for over 32 years from 1980 to 2013. I will never forget him. My most sincere condolences go to the Beyster family and to all my colleagues who knew and loved him.

  166. 166 Ed Draper

    Dr. Beyster is the greatest example of the difference between a man who creates, and those who just have all the check boxes in their resume filled. We will not see his like again, nor a company as great to work for as SAIC was during his tenure. We are all a little better for having known him, and the world is smaller for his passing.

  167. 167 P. Oliver

    I would like to express my condolences to Dr Bob’s family for their loss. What I see through all these messages is the deep admiration of the man, but also his vision of employee ownership changed so many lives. What pride I’ve felt working for such a visionary company – we were different and we knew it. How lucky I was in the mid-80s to work for a small company in Sorrento Valley that was acquired by SAI – changed my life course. Thank you Dr. Beyster for all the opportunities; it was a privilege to be part of the SAIC employee ownership team.

  168. 168 Ellen Ziegler Ward

    Dear Mrs. Beyster, M A, Jim & Mark,

    My condolences to you for your loss. I hope you find some peace and comfort in knowing that Dr. B made a positive difference in so very many lives. Mine is one of the lives – so much a better person and having lived a useful life because of the opportunities at SAIC. His vision to share company ownership was selfless and extraordinary. I am forever grateful.

    May the pain of your loss be pushed aside (soon) by your fond memories of a fine man.

  169. 169 Terence J Smith

    Dear Mrs. Beyster and family:
    I am very sad to hear about the passing of your husband and father. I worked for SAIC for nearly 30 years and I can honestly say that it was one of the most interesting experiences I have ever had. The challenges and opportunities that SAIC gave me were tremendous. He was a great and fine man.

  170. 170 Paul Kouris

    Dear Betty and family,
    It is with the deepest and sincerest sadness I send my condolences on the passing of Dr. Beyster. Although he is gone, his contributions to humanity will live on forever. Dr. Beyster led by example, not authority. His commitment to hard work and integrity instilled in us virtues which now permeate our lives and continually guide us. His generosity and philosophy enriched the lives of thousands of people. He will never be forgotten by us; we could never thank him enough.
    God bless Dr. Beyster and all of you.
    Paul Kouris

  171. 171 Kathy (Phillips) Courtney

    I was so sorry to learn of the death of this great leader and visionary, Dr. B. He made a huge impact on my life as I’ve been with SAIC since 1978 and hope to retire from here in a few years. He lead by example and instilled in me that hard work and long hours and hiring people smarter than me were keys to success. His concept of employee ownership and the opportunities many of us had during his tenure…and beyond…have had a beneficial and lasting impact. The world is a better place because of Dr. B and I thank you for sharing him with us. May the family, friends, and colleagues who are missing him now find comfort, peace and blessings in knowing he had such a positive impact on so many. Kathy

  172. 172 John Fratamico

    I extend my deepest condolences to the Beyster family at this time. I still vividly recall interviewing with Dr. Beyster on a Saturday morning 26 years ago, perhaps indicative of the many Saturday work days that were to follow! So much could be said about the remarkable leadership qualities that Bob brought to our company – his breadth across the technology spectrum, his depth in the physical sciences, his business acumen, his unparalleled memory, his resolve to deliver on commitments, his passion for national security, his work ethic and his understanding of human motivation. What stands out the most to me, and for which I will be ever thankful, is that Bob established expectations of his employee-owners to use their entrepreneurial talents to the fullest extent to make a difference for our nation and for the wellbeing of others. He allowed each of us considerable latitude in achieving those expectations, and he skippered our company very much along the philosophy of Rousmaniere, “The goal is not to sail the boat, but rather to help the boat sail herself.” Fair winds and following seas, Dr. B…

  173. 173 Tom Londos

    Dear Mary Ann and the Beyster family, my wife Sue and I are deeply saddened by your loss. Dr. B. has touched, mentored and befriended many people in his life and mine was one of those. The lessons that I learned in the many years at SAIC will never be forgotten, nor will the memory of the man who made this world a better place.
    Tom and Sue Londos

  174. 174 karen wilson

    Dear Mary Ann and Beyster Family,

    I can’t think of anyone who has had more influence on the well-being of my family than your father. On behalf of my family, I would like to express our gratitude for all that he has given us personally – and to our world at large.

    From the time I was a child, I can remember my father – an early SAIC employee – speak of Bob with highest regard. His “employee-owned” model of doing business kept my father with the company from the early 70′s until his retirement. I once asked him how he managed to go to work every day, year after year, and never utter a single word of complaint. His answer, “It’s easy…do what you love and work with people you really like.”

    Just a few weeks ago, my dad told his grand daughter that his one piece of advice would be to “work for an employee-owned company.” Two of my brothers and one of my sisters took his advice to heart and have worked at SAIC at one time or another.

    Your father’s vision and his strong example of good citizenship have woven their way into my family’s very fabric. We are better for having been lucky enough to align our stars with your father’s for a part of the human journey.

    He will be deeply missed, but his impact lives on forever.

    Karen Wilson

  175. 175 Virgil Rochester

    I cannot begin to express the feeling of loss when I first heard about Dr. Beyster’s passing through a colleague today. I was one of those fortunate enough to join SAI out of college in 1972 and experience the wonder of the incredible pool of talent Dr. Beyster had assembled. To say that I was overwhelmed would be an understatement. For me, everyday at work was an adventure wherein I got to work with some of the best minds in the country to solve meaningful and difficult problems. I remember Dr. Beyster making his rounds on the weekend to the various locations in La Jolla to see how people were doing and to ask about their project. This was a man who cared about his people and the reputation of his company. For Dr. Beyster, it was excellence in everything that we did and he was a living example of that.

    To the Beyster family, you have my most sincere condolences for your loss, but more importantly for the treasure that you had throughout your life by having such a wonderful man as a husband, father, and great mentor.

    God Bless and may he rest in peace.

    Respectfully,

    Virgil M. Rochester, Jr.

  176. 176 JOE CABRAL

    Mary Ann,

    Please accept my deepest condolences on the passing of your dad. Dr. Beyster will always be remembered as an icon in the employee ownership community. In 1993, I was fortunate to get my first exposure to his philosophies and innovative solutions to issues he encountered with SAIC as an employee owned company. I still recall his statement that his largest contribution to SAIC’s success was to get out of the way and let these people build a successful company. Dr. Beyster provided the leadership, organizational structure, and encouragement to allow them to reach their full potential and thereby, for SAIC to attain the success it achieved.

    His employee ownership legacy has been further enhanced by endowing the first Chair of Employee Ownership at Rutgers University. His generosity and employee ownership commitment are now carried forward in an extraordinary manner by you.

    However, I applaud an even more important part of Dr. Beyster’s legacy, his family. Having the good fortune to have gotten to know you over these past few years, it is obvious what a strong family person Dr. Beyster was. Mary Ann, I look forward to celebrating your dad with you. His life was well lived and he will be fondly remembered. Now, he can rest in peace.

    God Bless you, your mom, and all the Beyster family.

    Your friend and colleague,

    Joe Cabral

  177. 177 Phil Sbarbaro

    From my first days as the only lawyer at Network Solutions, Dr. Beyster was the epitome of leadership and precision. On critical issues at NSI, Dennis Heipt and I would make one call to Dr. Beyster and the decision would be made.

    On early morning at NSI, at a Board of Directors meeting set for 7:30 a.m., I was walking down the hall and passed Dr. Beyster on his way in. Instead of the usual pleasantries, given that it was 7:35 a.m., I said in a serious voice as I passed him: “7:30 means 7:30.” He stopped, looked down, waited, and them smiled the widest smile I had even seen from him. He paid me back in the meeting. What a wonderful man. The world is a little smaller without him.
    Kindest Regards,
    Phil

  178. 178 Dennis Priddy

    I am truly sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. Please accept my sincere condolences. But, Rest in Peace? I really don’t think so. Bob will forever be vigorous, smiling, parsing his time in 15 minute increments, pursuing the next great innovation while offering kindness and encouragement to all those around him. Bob was a remarkable man and a good person and will always remain so. It was a privilege to have known Bob and to have spent just a bit of time with him.

    Dennis

  179. 179 Tim Wallick

    My heartfelt condolences to the family. Dr. Beyster was a remarkable man, visionary and leader. All of us who had the opportunity to work with him and share the SAIC experience with him, have had our lives enriched in such profound ways.
    Tim Wallick

  180. 180 Wayne A. Coleman

    Tribute to Bob Beyster

    I had the pleasurable distinction of being the first person that Bob Beyster hired into SAI (the precursor to SAIC) from outside San Diego. I came out of U.S. Army duty in Maryland and my family and I moved to San Diego in January 1970 to join what was then only La Jolla based SAI. I was with SAIC about 35 years, retiring about the same time as Bob. During that tenure I came to know him as relatively few did.

    Those who knew Bob Beyster, and even those who knew of him, acknowledge him as a great leader. In my view what made Bob most exceptional as a leader was the multiplicity of his attributes.

    Scientist. Early on and continuing over his career he was recognized and respected for his achievements in physics; clearly his prowess in science contributed to his leadership ability.

    Entrepreneur. Needless to say Bob was a great free-market entrepreneur. He built SAI from a one man consultancy to a continuously profitable high tech services enterprise of over 40,000 employees. He is widely known and will long be remembered for his entrepreneurship.

    Employee-ownership Innovator. In his efforts as an entrepreneur he led the evolution of a brand of employee ownership that sustains as a model for many entrepreneurial endeavors. Clearly his use and development of employee ownership was one of his attributes as a leader. His daughter, Mary Ann proudly and successfully continues to promote and further develop ownership concepts.

    Recruiter par excellence. Perhaps none of his attributes exceeded his effectiveness as a recruiter. Be it a scientist, marketer, or manager, there were precious few individuals that Bob could not recruit. Many of the people he recruited were of national and international prominence, and of course these recruits parlayed into the growth of SAIC.

    Business Strategist and Tactician. Bob never put too much of the company resources in any one business area. He always made modest investments in diverse areas. But none of these areas were too much of a stretch from the current established business base. He was a master at early recognition of which areas to cut, and capitalizing on those that paid off.

    Moxie. Bob was moxie in all three connotations of the word: determination, know-how and/or energy.

    Passion. Closely related to energy is passion. To say that Bob was passionate about SAIC was an understatement.

    Tough-mindedness. Being a successful Chairman and CEO of SAIC required tough-mindedness. Of course at times it also required tough actions. Bob practiced both when it was needed.

    Listener. Although some viewed Bob as being occasionally autocratic, in reality he was a very good listener. In fact, as CEO he often went beyond listening and practiced solicitation; at times he sought opinion in survey fashion.

    Selflessness and Benevolence. In contrast to toughness, Bob had a selflessness and benevolence about him that went way beyond what most would expect and of which many were unaware. He was in fact a counter icon to the oft painted character of the greedy CEO. Nowhere was this more evident than in the brand of employee ownership he instituted. Instead of hoarding equity for himself he spread it widely among the employees. This not only bestowed widespread wealth, it created phenomenal motivation.

    Motivator. Bob was a colossal motivator. Indeed he did this through the SAIC brand of employee ownership, but he also did it through his one-on-one personal charisma. Explaining the Bob Beyster charisma is difficult. The best I can do is to say the style of his charisma was not regal, but often humble.

    Patriot. Finally, Bob was a staunch patriot. He did not publicize his love for his country. But in reality his passion for his country was as intense as that for his company.

    John Robert Beyster: scientist, entrepreneur, motivator, benefactor, patriot. We salute you. May God bless you, your family and your legacy.

    Wayne Coleman

    24 January 2014

  181. 181 Bob Black

    I was very sad to hear the news of Dr. Beyster’s passing. His teachings and influence, particularly related to Employee Ownership, have reached far and wide. 15 years at SAIC left me with enough of the Employee Ownership DNA that I was able to convince the Board of our small company in Edinburgh (Scotland) to introduce a programme that put good levels of stock and options in the hands of all of our employees. May Dr B’s influence last long, spread wide, and make the world a better place.

    Bob Black

  182. 182 Jeannine Menger

    I just learned of Bob’s passing almost 2 years ago. Working directly for him was the highlight of my career. He and I understood each other in some odd way I could not put my finger on. He used to say to me “You know what I need before I know I need it. How do you do that?”. I did marketing intel for him and managed his marketing info systems for 6 years. To see how he operated transaction by transaction was truly awesome. The cumulative effect speaks for itself. It was my honor to work for Bob and his little tech company by the beach. May he rest in peace. God bless.

    I am reading his book “The SAIC Solution” now, thus my finding out he passed. The book is spot on.


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