Robert (Bob) S. Kaplan
1939 – 2026
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Robert (Bob) S. Kaplan, 86, of Princeton, NJ, on April 26, 2026.
Born in New York City and raised in Sunnyside and Woodhaven, Bob was the first in his family to graduate from college. He earned his BA degree from Queens College and went on to earn a MA in Urban Planning in North Carolina. He started his career in Baltimore, MD, then in Camden and Newark, where he worked for HUD (the Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development).
Throughout his life Bob preferred the scenic route to the fastest road—a fitting description of a life lived with curiosity and purpose. With his daughters, Karen and Debbie, Bob was a thoughtful listener and steady source of guidance.
While on a hike Bob met his beloved wife, Barbara. At the end of the hike before she drove away, Bob asked for her phone number, and that led to nearly 35 years of marriage filled with companionship, travel, and deep love.
After living 30 years in Caldwell, NJ, Bob and Barbara moved to Princeton Windrows, a community near his daughters Karen and Debbie. In the community he planned trips and activities, and he continued his love of hiking, biking, gardening, birding, travel, reading, and photography—some of which earned awards.
Bob was deeply committed to his values, marching for civil rights in the 1960s and more recently attending a rally in Princeton with his grandson Adam.
Though an only child, Bob built a large and loving family who will remember him for his kindness, intellect, and adventurous spirit. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the journeys he inspired.
He is survived by Barbara, his children, Karen Chu (Chris), Debbie (Brad Teach), their mother Lilian Gaber Kaplan, and Barbara’s sons Charles Hopp (Sara) and Robert Hopp (Sherri). His grandchildren, Kayla, Jared, Adam, Tyler, Kyle, Dalyla, Nelson, Siobhan and Sophie were a source of joy to him. His granddaughter Lydia predeceased him.
Funeral services were held on April 29 at The Jewish Center of Princeton, with burial at Princeton Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are respectfully requested to: Doctors Without Borders, Anti-Defamation League, Chai Lifeline, and Queens College Foundation
Arrangements are by Orland’s Ewing Memorial Chapel. For condolences, please visit OrlandsMemorialChapel.com/Robert-Kaplan.