Robert Hadley

Robert Donald Hadley of Tiburon, a principal in the esteemed Belvedere construction firm Ireland-Robinson & Hadley, died Jan. 28 following a sudden illness. He was 84.

Born in 1927 in Martinez, Mr. Hadley served two years in the U.S. Merchant Marine. His ship was one of the first to land in Japan after its World War II surrender in 1945. He then enlisted in the U.S. Army and served another two years as a military policeman stationed in Georgia.

After the war, he worked briefly as a claims adjuster for Transport Indemnity in San Francisco. Mr. Hadley soon joined the construction company that became Ireland-Robinson, and Hadley and became one of its principals. He was a member of Carpenters Union. "Hadley," as many locals call the construction firm, has a reputation for high-quality work.

Mr. Hadley retired in 1994. He remained active, serving on the board of Corinthian Yacht Club. He loved spending time with his family and traveling to his mountain retreat, where he spent much time in his garden.

His son Larry said he was known for his broad smile, hearty handshake and wisdom.

He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Vivian Hadley of Tiburon; two children, Larry Hadley of Petaluma and Virginia Hadley-Wathen, both of Petaluma; three brothers, Robin Hadley of San Rafael, Donald Hadley of South Carolina and Jack Hadley of Santa Rosa; many nieces and nephews; and two stepsons.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Feb. 9 at St. Stephen's Church, 3 Bayview Ave., Belvedere; a reception will follow.

Donations in his memory may be sent to a charity of one's choice.