Robert H. Kin

Robert H. Kin ("Bob"), a respected engineer and dedicated family man, passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 4, 2026, at St. Joseph's hospital in Orange, California, surrounded by his children Michael, Karen, and Curtis. Born on July 13, 1937, in Brownsville, Texas, to Joe Wing and Quan Shee Kin, Robert’s life was marked by remarkable professional achievements and a deep commitment to his loved ones.

A distinguished member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the American Institute of Mining Engineers, Robert’s career spanned nearly four decades, during which he held significant engineering and program management positions. He contributed his expertise to electronic systems for aircraft, missile, and space applications while working at esteemed companies such as North American Aviation from 1959 to 1961, Litton Guidance and Control Systems between 1962 and 1964, TRW Systems from 1965 to 1967, and Rockwell International from 1967 until his retirement in 1998 following its acquisition by Boeing in 1996. At Rockwell/Boeing, Robert's work encompassed diverse divisions including the Autonetics Strategic Systems Division, Missile Systems Division, Navigation Systems, Satellite & Space Electronics Division, Strategic Defense & Electro Optical Systems Division, and Collins Communication Systems Division, where his contributions left a lasting impact.

Robert’s academic pursuits were as impressive as his professional ones. He earned dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Mathematics and Mechanical Engineering from the University of Houston, where he was an active member of the Phi Sigma Kappa Social Fraternity and was elected Senior Class President. Thereafter, he attained Master’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering from the University of Southern California. Later on, while raising a family and working full-time, he obtained a Master of Arts in Management and an MBA from the Claremont Graduate School.

Known for his steadfast work ethic and dedication to providing for his family, Robert cherished time spent with those nearest to him. He found joy in sharing meals and meaningful moments with family and friends, leaving behind memories characterized by his kindness and warmth.

Robert Kin is survived by his children Michael Kin (wife Jennifer Kin and children Ryan (25) and Sarah (21)), Karen Sturges (husband Tom Sturges and son Kian (16)), and Curtis Kin (wife Kim Meyer and daughter Regan (22)). He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of over 56 years, Marietta Kin, who passed in April 2023.

A funeral service to honor Robert’s life will be held on May 9, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Forest Lawn - Cypress - Church of Our Fathers, located at 4471 Lincoln Avenue, Cypress, California 90630, followed by lunch at a nearby restaurant to Celebrate the Life of Robert Kin. Family, friends, and all who knew Robert are invited to attend and pay their respects to a man whose legacy in engineering and family life touched many.  In his honor, donations may be made to Cornerstone United Methodist Church, 2050 Valencia Avenue, Placentia, CA 92870.