Robert (Bob) Bernheim

Robert (Bob) Bernheim, a devoted family man, passionate sailor, and community leader, was born in San Francisco on September 26, 1933. He grew up in the city, spending cherished summers at his parents’ home on Corinthian Island, where his love for the sea first took root.

Bob earned dual degrees in business and engineering from UC Berkeley and proudly served as a captain in the Army Corps of Engineers in the late 1950s. Following his service, he took the helm of Coast Counties Property Management, a company founded by his father, Jules, and later joined by his son, Brad, continuing the family legacy.

Deeply committed to his community, Bob served as a member and president of BOMA, the Building Owners and Managers Association, as well as a member of the Belvedere Planning Commission and the Rotary Club.

A lover of life both on land and water, Bob’s passion for the sea was infectious. His motto: “Feeling sick? Get out on the water. Feeling blue? Go sailing. Broken arm? Water’s the cure,” was a guiding principle throughout his life, even into his final months.

Bob was an active member of the St. Francis Yacht Club, the San Francisco Yacht Club, and the Cruising Club of America. In the early 1950s, he joined the International 210 fleet with his boat, Top Banana, winning numerous races. Over the years, he competed in Bay Area classics, the Transpac, and voyages to Mexico. His fleet of boats included a Moon boat, a Clipper, a Rhodes 33, and, later, powerboats such as a Trojan, Grand Banks, and Grand Alaskan. In his later years, he found joy in watching junior sailors and gazing out at the bay from his home on Corinthian Island.

Bob’s adventurous spirit extended beyond sailing. He traveled extensively with his family, exploring new places across the U.S. and abroad. A lover of the arts, he was passionate about theater and never missed a performance at SF Broadway, enjoying everything from classical musicals to Green Day.

He also had a sweet tooth, delighting in pie, cookies, ice cream, and especially See’s Candy. Marin Joe’s, his favorite local restaurant, was a frequent gathering spot for him and his loved ones.

Holidays and time with family brought Bob immense joy. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Susan, and his stepson, Walter Finch. He is survived by his son, Brad (Cynthia); daughter, Brenda “BB” (Carl Straub); stepdaughter, Susie Finch (Sandra Cook); daughter-in-law, Lauren Finch; grandson, Nicholas Finch (Klaudia); and great-grandson, Vincent.

The family will gather for a private memorial service to celebrate Bob’s remarkable life and enduring legacy.