Robert J. Mason, 62, of Lambertville, NJ, died at his home on Wednesday, November 15, 2017.

Robert was born in Schenectady, New York, the son of Frank Lloyd Mason, Jr. and Concetta Barbini Mason. His education began at Draper School and continued at the University of Buffalo. He received masters degrees from the University of Toronto and finally a PhD from Rutgers University. His life in academia was highlighted by a long tenure as a professor of Geography and Environmental Sciences at Temple University in Philadelphia. He taught in Japan for several years and was delighted to teach for a semester in Rome.

Robert was widely traveled, having visited many of the world’s greatest cities and numerous countries as well as some of the most remote places found in the quiet corners of the globe. He thoroughly loved other cultures and the people he befriended. He always wanted to see what was just a little further down the road.

He is survived by his sister Linda Mason LeBlanc of Cottekill, New York, his brother Donald and wife Kathleen of Weybridge, Vermont as well as three nephews: Marc LeBlanc, his wife Marybeth and their children Felix and Eloise of Brunswick, Maryland; Scott Mason and his wife Ann of New Boston, New Hampshire and Mack Mason of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and his partner Eleanor Eagan.

Robert had a wealth of friends from all walks of life and enjoyed sharing stories about their homes, their families and their lives. He had the pleasure of teaching many students, not only advancing their knowledge, but his own as well. He had a positive impact on the countless lives he touched and will be missed by all who knew him.

A memorial service for Robert will be held in the Lambertville, New Jersey area after the holidays.