Dr Robert (Bob) Funk

Bob attended New College as a visiting theology student in 1963, a decision he credited to the College's international reputation and practical economics: "I grew up on a farm and it was more reasonable to come here than to go to an American university." During his studies, he attended classes in Old Testament, New Testament, Greek, and Church History under professors including Robin Barbour, JS Stewart, Tom Torrance, and John McIntyre. He greatly valued his interactions with faculty, particularly JS Stewart, who regularly hosted overseas students at his home for theological discussions.

Bob actively participated in student life, playing for the University basketball team and notably travelling with fellow students through Europe to Bethlehem at Christmas, where they were baptised in the River Jordan. Initially intending a career in ministry, Bob instead pursued business, co-founding Express Employment Professionals in 1983. Under his leadership, the company became the largest privately held staffing firm in the United States, which he described as "the staffing ministry of helping people find jobs."

Throughout his life, Bob generously supported New College, funding student scholarships, significant refurbishments of the Special Collections at the New College Library, and campus enhancements including floodlighting, signage, and courtyard clocks, completing William Playfair’s original design. In recognition of his contributions, Bob was awarded University Benefactor status in 2008.

Professor Sir Peter Mathieson, University Principal and Vice-Chancellor:

The University community has lost one of its most illustrious, thoughtful, genial and warm-hearted members with the passing of Bob Funk. Bob was always marvellous company. He revelled in deep conversations on world issues and the role of education in addressing them, but was never slow to bring his trademark humour into the mix. We will miss his regular visits to the campus and in particular to New College. We will find creative ways to mark his wonderful generosity in supporting outstanding initiatives for our students and researchers. His philanthropy transformed the look and feel of our historic New College site - inside and out. On behalf of the whole University community I send our heart-felt condolences to Janine, to Bob’s family, and to all who knew him.

Professor Jeremy Carrette, Head of the School of Divinity, said:

The School of Divinity at the University of Edinburgh is deeply saddened to learn of the death of Dr Robert Funk. Dr Funk has been an extraordinary friend of New College, the School, and University since his time studying Theology here in 1963. Over the years he provided generous support, ensuring the valuable heritage of New College, and literally lit up the building through his philanthropy. He created opportunities for archival research with the Bob Funk reading room in the New College Library. His generosity secured the legacy of New College as one of the most beautiful spaces to study Theology and Religion, enriching students from around the world. We will forever be in Bob Funk’s debt and send our deepest sympathy and love to his family and friends. We remember Bob with affection and gratitude for his long friendship with the School of Divinity and New College.

Professor David Fergusson, Honorary Professor of Divinity, added:

I first met Bob Funk in 2004 during my time as Head of the School of Divinity. He retained vivid memories of his year at New College, especially playing for a successful University basketball team and his adventurous journey with friends in an old car across eastern Europe to the Holy Land. Although he pursued business rather than ministry, Bob found a way of supporting people generously through his philanthropy. New College greatly benefited from his generosity, especially its library and buildings. We cherished Bob and Janine's annual visits to Scotland. With his familiar Stetson, he radiated friendship and humour wherever he went. My wife and I enjoyed memorable occasions of their hospitality in Oklahoma, including two Thanksgiving celebrations. We remember Bob as a devoted alumnus and a wonderful friend. Deo gratias.