Robert A. Pascal
Robert A. Pascal | |
|---|---|
| Born | July 20, 1934 Glen Ridge, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Died | March 12, 2021 (aged 86) |
| Occupation(s) | Politician, football player, businessman |
| Years active | 1950s–2000s |
| Known for | Anne Arundel County Executive (1975–1982), Canadian football player, propane business leader |
Robert A. Pascal (July 20, 1934 – March 12, 2021) was an American figure known for his roles as a Republican politician, a collegiate and professional Canadian football athlete, and a propane business leader. He held the position of Anne Arundel County Executive in Maryland from 1975 through 1982.
Early life
Born in Glen Ridge, New Jersey, Pascal grew up in Bloomfield, where his father was employed by the local school system. He completed his secondary education at Bloomfield High School before attending Duke University to play football. At Duke, Pascal distinguished himself as a halfback, earning first-team All-American recognition in 1955. He led the Blue Devils in rushing yards over two seasons and was honored as the team's Most Valuable Player that same year. Additionally, he received first-team All-ACC accolades twice. Graduating in 1956 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics, Pascal was selected in the third round of the NFL Draft by the Baltimore Colts but opted to play professionally for the Montreal Alouettes in the Canadian Football League, participating in the Grey Cup during his sole season with the team.
Career
Following his stint in Canadian professional football, Pascal returned to the United States and embarked on a career within the propane sector. He purchased United Propane and successfully grew it into one of the top 25 companies nationwide before divesting it to Inergy, L.P. in 2003. Concurrently, Pascal engaged in public service. He served as a Maryland State Senator from 1971 until 1974 and then as Anne Arundel County Executive from 1974 to 1982, during which time he played a key role in securing Kinder Farm Park for public use. In 1982, Pascal was the Republican candidate for Governor of Maryland but was defeated by incumbent Harry R. Hughes. Later, he was appointed Secretary of Appointments under Governor William Donald Schaefer between 1989 and 1995.
Legacy
Pascal's contributions to education and community programs are commemorated through several named facilities:
- Pascal Field House at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina
- The Pascal Senior Center, recognized as Anne Arundel County's inaugural senior center located in Glen Burnie, Maryland
- Pascal Center for the Performing Arts at Anne Arundel Community College in Arnold, Maryland
- Pascal Field at St. Mary's High School in Annapolis, Maryland
- Robert A. Pascal Youth & Family Services, Inc., based in Odenton, Maryland
Philanthropy
Pascal made a $6 million donation to Duke University to establish an indoor training facility for its football program, which was subsequently named Pascal Field House to honor his generosity.
Personal life
He was father to four daughters: Catherine Anne, Margaret, Clara, and Robin.