Robert Bruce Tepper Jr. ’71

Robert Bruce Tepper Jr. ’71—beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, mentor, and friend—died at home in Los Angeles from cancer on September 17, 2024, after a “charmed life.” Registered with the College at birth by his father, Robert ’41, Bruce entered Dartmouth in the last all-male class. There, he studied history, learned to ski, joined Phi Sigma Psi, built lifelong friendships, and met his future wife of 53 years, Belinda. Bruce earned a J.D. and master’s in urban affairs. In 1978 he and Belinda moved to Los Angeles, where he built a reputation as a fierce litigator, specializing in land use and water rights appeals, and launched a solo practice in 2002. In addition to his advocacy Bruce was a valued mentor who trained many junior attorneys with his exacting standards, especially in legal writing; his publications were regularly cited by numerous courts of appeal as well as the California Supreme Court. Bruce delighted in tenacious advocacy and lively debate in and out of the courtroom, often incorporating his characteristically dry, sometimes biting, humor. He was an involved parent, class board member, grill master, sports fan (Dodger Blue), and appreciator of beauty ranging from classical music to California’s Central Coast to displays of fresh-cut flowers from farmers’ markets. He is survived by Belinda; children Jacob and Laura ’02; four grandsons; sisters Peggy, Wendy, and Trisha; and mother Elaine.