Oregon Public Broadcasting

A man who helped change the face of Portland has died.

Bob Gerding co-founded the influential development firm Gerding and Edlen. Gerding was in on many key projects that made Portland a national model for urban renewal, and proved green design wasn't just attainable, but profitable.

Gerding was known for his lively mind, and support of the arts.

Chris Coleman, artistic director of Portland Center Stage, knew Gerding as a patron and a close friend. The theater company's complex in the Pearl District is even named after Gerding. 

Coleman says Gerding had prophetic words in the early stages of Pearl re-development.

Chris Coleman   "It's funny, you know, I remember the first year I was here I was at his office, they had the sketchboards up for the Brewery Blocks. I said 'So, why are you so excited about this deal?' And he looked at me, like, 'Are you crazy?'  And he said, 'Well, because it will transform what it's like to live in the city'."

Gerding and Edlen's projects turned the Pearl District into a real estate juggernaut, generating millions of dollars in revenue for the city. The firm has become Oregon's largest developer.

Bob Gerding stayed involved with the arts and culture through his retirement. He died of cancer at age 71.