Born in 1957, Robert is survived by his brother Michael, sister-in-law Colleen, a niece, Amy, and a nephew, Derek, and six great-nieces and great-nephews.
Robert received his undergraduate degree from Indiana University (IU) in foreign languages, chiefly French and Dutch. He also received a graduate degree from IU in Library Science.
After school, Robert was a librarian in Brooklyn New York for ten years. He moved back to Louisville and worked for the Louisville Library System as the purchaser of books until his retirement.
Robert was highly intelligent and enjoyed local cultural activities. Outgoing and witty, he had a large number of friends. He also enjoyed traveling overseas where he would enjoy testing his foreign language skills. Robert was insatiably curious and enjoyed studying everything from physics and biology, to history and literature.
Robert was preceded in death by his mother, Ruth Elaine Wardell, and his father, Richard Edward Wardell.
A graveside service for Robert will be held Saturday, October 18, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Kraft-Graceland Memorial Park, 2776 Charlestown Road, New Albany, Indiana 47150.
