Robert J. “Kam” Kamerschen, a retired executive whose ability as a change agent leader took him to the top of several Fortune 500 companies, died on November 15 after a brave battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. He was 89 and was a resident of New Canaan, CT and Orleans, MA for many years.
Robert J. “Kam” Kamerschen. https://hoytfuneralhome.com/tribute/details/1951/Robert-Kamerschen/obituary.html#tribute-start
Kam was the Chairman and CEO of Advo, Inc., the nation’s largest direct mail services company for 10 years. Prior to that, he served as Chairman, CEO or COO of RKO/Six Flags, Marketing Corporation of America, and Chanel and Christian Dior Perfums. He was Group President at Norton Simon, Inc. where his responsibilities included Hunt Wesson Foods, Max Factor, Halston Enterprises, and United Can. Earlier in his career, he held senior marketing executive assignments at Scott Paper Company, Dunkin’ Donuts and Revlon.
Following retirement, Kam was an active private investor, and senior advisor multiple companies and people. Kam took great pleasure in being a mentor; you knew he was a fan if you received articles notated with inspirational quotes. “Onward and Upward!” and “The Best Never Rest” were favorites.
Born in Larium, Michigan on February 16, 1935, Kam was raised in Chicago by his parents, Robert and Elsie. He received his B.S. and MBA with honors from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. Kam married the former Judith Campbell in 1958; they recently celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary.
An avid athlete, Kam played football, baseball and wrestled in school, and maintained a rigorous exercise routine. He took great pride in his fitness, striving to be the “Jack Lalane” of his generation throughout most of his eighties.
A parishioner at St. Aloysious in New Canaan, Kam also supported the arts and education. He served as a trustee at Emerson College, Columbia College and Hartford University. An active alumnus of Miami University, he endowed a scholarship there for Women in Business. He was also a trustee at the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art and the Bushnell Theater, both in Hartford, CT.
He is survived by Judith and his 3 daughters: Kathryn, Carol and Jean. He was known affectionately as “King” by his 5 beloved grandchildren: Campbell, Jake, Charlie, Julia and Lucette. Kam is also survived by his brother, Dr. David Kamerschen. He was predeceased by his parents and sister, Robyn Kriz.
A celebration of Kam’s life is planned for Spring, 2026. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to the Alzheimer’s Association or the American Cancer Society.
For online condolences please visit www.hoytfuneralhome.com
This obituary appeared on the Hoyt Funeral Home website.