With a heavy heart, the Fraternity reports the passing of one of Beta’s most accomplished brothers, Robert J. Schaupp, Lawrence ’51, who died April 15, 2024.
Bob’s remarkable journey with Beta Theta Pi began December 5, 1950, upon his initiation into the Gamma Pi Chapter at Lawrence University. Upon graduating, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, spending most of his time at Fort Richardson in Alaska. He spent the bulk of his years as a business executive in the transportation and logistics industry, and his successes earned him the Oxford Cup – Beta’s highest award for professional achievement.
His service to the Fraternity ran the gamut, including as president of the Gamma Pi House Corporation and Fox Valley Alumni Association, General Fraternity President, and member of the Board of Trustees, Foundation Board of Directors, Promises to Keep Campaign Cabinet and Advisory Council. During his term as General Fraternity President, the earliest steps were taken toward the Men of Principle initiative. He also gifted the Communication Department Conference Room and the grand piano at Beta’s Administrative Office, the latter a nod to Lawrence’s celebrated music program and the decades of Whitman Choral Cups earned by his chapter.
Imbued with a comfortable sense of humor, an ever-present smile and a love for enjoying a Dewar’s on the rocks with his Beta brothers, Bob was always interested in others, listened with enthusiasm and encouraged by example. He is survived by his Beta Sweetheart, Joan, four children, 10 grandchildren (among them former Chapter President Konrad Siebert, Nebraska ’14) and five great-grandchildren.
May Brother Bob Schaupp, Roll No. 392 of the Gamma Pi Chapter and Roll No. 59 of the Zeta Zeta Chapter of Beta Theta Pi, rest in peace. Forever in ___kai___.
