COLUMBUS, INDIANA
Robert E. Edgell, In Memoriam (August 6, 1934 – February 21, 2024)
Bob Edgell was born on August 6, 1934, in Alton, Illinois, to Clarence and Mary Jane Edgell. He excelled in varsity baseball and basketball in high school, earning a spot in the Alton High Athletic Hall of Fame. Additionally, Bob was elected class president all four years.
After graduating from Alton High, Bob attended Southern Illinois University, earning a degree in History in 1956. He then joined the U.S. Air Force, where he flew C-130s during two tours in Vietnam. Bob furthered his education throughout his military career, obtaining a master’s degree from the University of Maryland and earning recognition as a distinguished graduate at the Air War College.
Bob’s legacy is profound service and kindness, leaving a lasting impact on those around him. His role as a congressional lobbyist for the American Federation of Government Employees after 27 years in the Air Force highlighted his commitment to public service. At the same time, his dedication to volunteering as a book buddy and singing in the men’s choir at St. Bartholomew Parish showcased his strong sense of community.
Despite facing Alzheimer’s, Bob’s wit, patience, and kindness continued to shine through, touching the lives of everyone he encountered. Bob had a remarkable ability to connect with people, showing that what truly mattered to him was not wealth, age, ability, gender, race, or nationality but the inherent humanity in each person.
Bob’s passing has left a significant void in the lives of his loved ones, yet his memory lives on through the countless lives he touched and the positive influence he had on his community. His legacy is a reminder of the power of compassion and service, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps of making a difference, no matter the circumstances.
Survivors include his wife, Judy (Jaydee) Edgell; his children, John Edgell, Margaret (Lyndell) Core, Ginger (John) Lirette, and Heather (Joshua) Whaley; and his grandchildren, Ellie Edgell, Michael Edgell, James Core, Trevor Lirette, Joseph Core, Shannon Whaley, and Aiden Whaley. Other dear loved ones include brother-in-law, John Paul (Janice) Idol; sister-in-law, Gladys Drummonds; nephews, Brad (Peggy) Saylor, Kelsey (Nick) Inzirillo, Ryan, Michael (Judy) Edgell, Bailey (Jess), Brogan; and niece, Kathy Edgell.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. March 2, 2024, at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church; Father Chris Wadelton will be the celebrant. The Funeral Mass will live stream at saintbartholomew.org.
Family and friends may gather for a time of visitation from 9 a.m. until Mass time March 2nd at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church
Full military honors will be presented by the United States Air Force Ceremonial Unit and the Bartholomew County Veterans Honor Guard. Following the Funeral Mass and military honors, cremation will take place.
Memorial contributions in memory of Colonel Robert E. Edgell may be made to Our Hospice of South Central Indiana, 2626 East 17th Street, Columbus, Indiana 47201 or cards will be available at the church.
Condolences and special memories may be shared with the family and a video tribute may be seen at barkesweaverglick.com.
