It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of beloved husband, father, and distinguished philanthropist, Thaddeus “Tad” Taube, on September 13, 2025, at the age of 94, at his home in San Mateo County, California.
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Tad Taube was the founder and guiding light of Taube Philanthropies, known for his unmatched generosity and devotion to family, community, and humanity. For Tad, helping others was never a choice – it was a calling shaped by his own story of survival, made possible through the compassion of others. That recognition became the enduring principle behind his life’s work.
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A refugee from Poland who became a pioneering entrepreneur, civic leader, and philanthropist, Tad transformed personal success into a lifelong mission of generosity, advancing education, strengthening civic and cultural institutions, and enriching Jewish life across the United States, Israel, and Poland.
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As Founder and Chairman of Taube Philanthropies, Tad championed collaborative giving that multiplied impact through partnerships. Over 30 years, his foundation has distributed significant philanthropic support. As one of Stanford’s primary benefactors, his legacy lives on through the Taube Pavilion at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, the Taube Center for Jewish Studies, and many other initiatives. In 2024 alone, 148 grants supported causes ranging from civic and cultural life to humanitarian aid, education, research, under-served youth programs, and Jewish life.
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Tad’s philanthropy reflected both urgency and foresight. He was determined not only to address the challenges of his time but also to prepare for those yet to come. While most people his age embraced retirement, Tad remained fully engaged and spirited, devoting his intellect and energy to building institutions meant to outlast him, with a wit as steadfast as his purpose.
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We mourn his passing, but we celebrate a remarkable life defined by resilience, vision, and an enduring commitment to building a better world. We will carry forward his mission with the same passion and vigor, fostering a more generous, compassionate, and resilient society.
Tad Taube was the founder and guiding light of Taube Philanthropies, known for his unmatched generosity and devotion to family, community, and humanity. For Tad, helping others was never a choice – it was a calling shaped by his own story of survival, made possible through the compassion of others. That recognition became the enduring principle behind his life’s work.
