In Memoriam: Robert “Bob” G. Tointon

Bob Tointon was a visionary leader, an incredible businessman and a deeply treasured friend of the university, UNC Athletics and the entire city of Greeley. Alongside his beloved wife Betty, the Tointons dedicated their lives to strengthening education, enriching community life and uplifting countless individuals across northern Colorado.

Both natives of Kansas, Bob and Betty put down roots in Greeley in 1963 when Bob came to work for Hensel Phelps Construction as a project engineer. Embodying a philosophy of excellence and innovation, Bob flourished at Hensel Phelps from 1963-89 and served as CEO and president from 1976-89. Bob’s life and career spanned decades of building success, from leading major construction projects to mentoring future leaders in construction and education. His legacy leaves a lasting mark on the business and educational landscape in Colorado.

Together, Bob and Betty dedicated their lives to improving communities. Bob founded Greeley’s Downtown Development Authority, where he was active for more than 30 years. Through their shared passion for education, Bob and Betty were longtime supporters of Greeley-Evans School District 6. They founded the Greeley Dream Team and the Student Recovery Program, helping area high school students graduate and go on to college.

Bob and Betty also created the Tointon Institute for Educational Change at UNC in 1995, a program designed to provide K-12 educators with leadership development opportunities. For over 30 years, the program has worked with more than 1,410 principals, 425 school teams and 3,600 teacher leaders in Colorado, impacting the lives of hundreds of thousands of children throughout the state.

The Tointons’ impact on UNC Athletics is equally profound. For 36 consecutive years, they championed Bear athletics programs, understanding the vital role sports play in academic excellence, personal growth and community pride. Their generosity supported a wide range of programs and projects, including baseball, men’s and women’s basketball, football, men’s and women’s golf, volleyball, the Empower Center and Nottingham Field.

Together, Bob and Betty Tointon shaped the fabric of the Greeley community through tireless service, generous support and an unwavering belief in the power of opportunity. Their enduring partnership continued until Betty’s passing in 2020, and the family foundation they created together continues to contribute to civic projects, education and scholarships, aiming to sustain their impact for generations.