E. Robert (Bob) Edwards

E. Robert Edwards, known as Bob, passed into eternal life on June 11, 2022. He was the only child of Joe and Berenice Edwards of Indianapolis. Bob’s brilliant mind, problem solving abilities, sense of humor and affable way with people contributed to his successful careers in healthcare management (he was one of the founders and backbone of Koala Hospitals, one of the first free-standing drug and alcohol treatment centers in Indiana), land development, and home construction. During his Koala years, he was a founding officer of ICAADA (Indiana Counselor’s Association on Alcohol & Drug Abuse) and supporter of NAATP (National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers). He worked closely with the State of Indiana Mental Health Division that would call on him to organize treatment trials at his facilities. He was quietly proud to be published in his field, called upon to speak at national conventions, and represent Koala to the Press. He was known as a hands-on leader who mentored and advocated for his teams. Bob and his teams created innovative, one-of-a-kind treatment programs at his hospitals that set new standards in the industry. His dedication to the patients and the families of those suffering from addictions lead to thousands of people entering into recovery during the many years of Koala Hospitals operations across the country. He was a Paul Harris Fellow in Rotary and a 32nd degree Mason. He loved plants, especially flowers, cats, premium ice cream, Marvel comic superhero movies as well as "chick flicks” and was a fearsome movie trivia buff. Bob loved to read and was a student of history and religions. Bob was a passionate animal welfare advocate. He personally cared for feral cats in his community, rescued dogs and cats, and anonymously helped many persons pay for urgent veterinary care in order to save their pets. He was a great supporter of animal related causes. He was a master at bringing people together who were not of like mind. He loved to create opportunities to share experiences and just have a great time together. His devotion and generosity to his friends was well known. He was a loving and caring stepfather for Pamela Nolan, a father figure to others he helped raise, especially Cathy Campbell, Jimmy and Robby Hoover, and others he parented along the way, particularly Feeline Hüser and Brianna Patton. He is survived by Patricia, his soulmate and wife of 25 years, and his fur babies Callie, Lulu, Maggie, Gracie, and Munchkin. Services will be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 6050 N. Meridian St. in Indianapolis on Saturday June 25th with visitation starting at 11am, funeral service at Noon, and interment at Crown Hill Cemetery immediately thereafter. He would appreciate memorial contributions to Humane Society for Hamilton County (hamiltonhumane.com).