Colonel Robert Andrew Roubik

Colonel Robert Andrew Roubik, husband, father, grandfather, aviation enthusiast and earnest cartophile, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2025 with Karen, his wife of 44 years, at his side. He was born on May 20, 1939 in Chicago, IL to Andrew Roubik and Jeannette (Olsen) Roubik.

Col. Roubik grew up in Alexandria, MN and graduated from Minneapolis School of Anesthesia. He joined the United States Air Force, serving at bases in Utah and Texas before deploying overseas as Chief of Anesthesia and Emergency Services for the 432nd USAF Combat Support Hospital, Royal Thai AFB, Udorn, Thailand. In 1975, he joined the USAF Reserve 459th Air Refueling Wing. Robert made Major in 1976, Lt. Colonel in 1981, and Colonel in 1986 at the age of 42. Colonel Roubik was acting Director of the School of Anesthesia, Lackland AFB, retiring with honors after 37 years. He was a graduate of the National Security Management Program, National Defense University, Ft. McNair and Air War College.

Robert earned a Master of Science from George Washington University. He held the position of Chief Nurse Anesthetist at the University Hospital and taught and conducted research at the School of Medicine and Health Sciences. He had the honor of performing 32,000 anesthesias, including US Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall and President Ronald Reagan after his assassination attempt in 1981.

His dedication to duty, leadership, and integrity were qualities that earned him the respect and admiration of all who worked with him. Throughout his life, he was known not only for his professionalism, but for his vibrant sense of humor, which lifted the spirits of those around him. After his retirement, he continued to serve his community as a docent for 22 years at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, Udvar-Hazy Center, where he shared his vast knowledge and love of history and aviation with countless visitors.

He is survived by his wife, Karen Kudis Roubik; their children Lauren Franco (Christopher), Jonathan (Taryn Petzel), Julie Roubik (Shane Leonard); his adored grandchildren, Andrew, Ryan, and Daniel Franco, and Grayson Leonard; from a previous marriage, his son Geoff (Leslie) and their children Alexander and Jack, his daughter Andrea Carpenter and her children Reese and Megan; as well as many dear friends and colleagues who were touched by his kindness and generosity.

The family will receive friends on Friday, May 2, 2025 from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Money and King Funeral Home in Vienna, VA. A military funeral with full honors at Arlington National Cemetery and Celebration of Life is planned for a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Douglas County Historical Society, Alexandria, MN.

Colonel Robert Roubik will forever be remembered for his warm heart, his laughter, and his unwavering support of his loved ones. His legacy will live on in the many lives he touched.
May he rest in eternal peace.