Longtime Westport resident, noted builder, civic volunteer and philanthropist Robert “Rob” Haroun died yesterday. He battled cancer for 10 years, defying all odds despite a prognosis that gave him far less time.
He lived here for more than 30 years with his wife Julie. Together, they raised 3 children — Dan, Jessica and Annie — in Westport.
Rob Haroun
An entrepreneur at heart, Rob was a mechanical engineer, an attorney, and a real estate developer.
After graduating from New York Law School in 1989 he became a founding partner of Sofer & Haroun, an intellectual property law firm based in Manhattan.
In 1993 Rob founded SIR Development. He combined his engineering background, legal expertise and passion for real estate, developing more than 300 homes and many commercial projects throughout Fairfield County.
Rob strongly believed that success came with a responsibility to give back. Deeply committed to his community and his faith, he dedicated his time, talents, and leadership to causes that mattered to him.
He served as chair of the Building Committee for the Westport Library’s transformative renovation project, and chaired the Property Management Committee for the Westport Westport Family YMCA renovation project.
In addition to giving his time, Rob was a philanthropist who supported many local and national causes, including the Westport Rotary Club, Leukemia Fighters, the National MS Society and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
Rob was also a devoted member of The Community Synagogue in Westport. His deep commitment to Judaism was reflected in many leadership and volunteer roles, over the years. He was passionate about giving back to the congregation that meant so much to him.
As a devoted father and husband, Rob never missed a Little League game or weeknight dinner.
A funeral is set for tomorrow (Friday, July 17 10:30 a.m., TCS). To join via livestream, click here. Interment will follow at the TCS Cemetery, across from 240 Reid Street in Fairfield.
The family will receive visitors at their home on Sunday (July 19, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., 4 p.m until 7); Monday (July 20, 5 to 8 p.m.), Tuesday (July 21, 1 to 3 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m.) and Wednesday (July 22 (2 to 6 p.m.).
Condolence notes may be sent to julieharoun@gmail.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Bennett Cancer Center at Stamford Health, where Rob received his care, or to The Community Synagogue in Westport.
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Three years ago, Rob Haroun was a guest on the “06880” podcast. Click here or below oto see that interview.
