Potomac Community Mourns the Loss of Beloved Business Leader and Philanthropist Bob Youngentob

Potomac Community Mourns the Loss of Beloved Business Leader and Philanthropist Bob Youngentob

Potomac, MD – October 20, 2025 — The Potomac community is mourning the passing of Bob Youngentob, a prominent business leader, philanthropist, and cherished member of the community. Youngentob, who was 64 years old, died peacefully surrounded by his family. His death marks the loss of a man whose professional and personal life touched countless lives across the region and beyond.

Bob Youngentob was best known as the co-founder and Executive Chairman of EYA LLC, a respected urban residential development company headquartered in the Washington, D.C. area. Under his guidance, EYA became synonymous with ethical development, thoughtful urban planning, and a community-first approach that set a new standard for real estate development in the region. Over a career spanning decades, Youngentob helped shape the urban landscape of the D.C. metropolitan area, championing projects that emphasized walkability, sustainability, and community connection.

But beyond the blueprints and business deals, Bob Youngentob was a man deeply committed to people — his employees, neighbors, and especially those in need. Colleagues remember him not just as a brilliant executive, but as a humble leader who led by example. His management style was described as compassionate and inclusive, fostering a workplace culture rooted in mutual respect and shared purpose.

“Bob was more than a visionary,” said a longtime colleague at EYA. “He was someone who truly cared. He had a gift for seeing the potential in people and in places. He believed in building not just homes, but communities.”

That same spirit of generosity extended into every corner of Bob’s life. Together with his wife, Linda Youngentob, he became a pillar of philanthropy in the region. The couple supported numerous causes, with a special focus on education, healthcare access, and opportunities for underprivileged youth. They were known for both their financial generosity and their hands-on involvement — often working closely with the organizations they supported to ensure long-term impact.

Among the many beneficiaries of their philanthropy were local schools, scholarship programs, children’s health initiatives, and mentoring organizations that helped young people build brighter futures. “Bob didn’t just write checks,” said one nonprofit director. “He showed up. He asked questions. He cared about the outcomes. He wanted to make a real difference.”

Friends and neighbors in Potomac recall Bob as a man of remarkable warmth and humility. Whether attending local events, supporting community projects, or simply spending time with his family, he remained grounded and approachable. “He never acted like the most successful guy in the room, even though he often was,” said one neighbor. “He made people feel seen and valued — that was his true gift.”

Bob Youngentob’s influence extended far beyond his professional and philanthropic accomplishments. He mentored countless young professionals, championed diversity and inclusion in business, and remained a steadfast advocate for ethical leadership. His life was a testament to the idea that success is best measured by the positive impact one has on others.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda, their children, and grandchildren, as well as a vast extended network of friends, colleagues, and admirers. Funeral services will be held later this week in Potomac, with a public memorial to follow in the coming months, where members of the community will gather to celebrate his extraordinary life.

As Potomac grieves, it also reflects on the profound legacy Bob leaves behind — one built not only on buildings and business, but on kindness, compassion, and the unwavering belief in community. His memory will live on in every neighborhood he helped build, every cause he championed, and every life he touched.

In lieu of flowers, the Youngentob family has requested that donations be made to local charities focused on education and youth empowerment — a final gesture in keeping with the lifelong values of a man who never stopped giving.