Dr. Robert "Bob" Udell

Dr. Robert “Bob” Udell devoted his life to healing others. A gifted physician, devoted husband, beloved brother, and one of the most generous people anyone could hope to know, he passed away peacefully on August 8, 2026, at 2:50 p.m., after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born on April 12, 1954, Bob dedicated his life to serving others. He earned his medical degree from the College of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery at the University of Health Sciences in Des Moines, Iowa, embarking on a career distinguished by compassion, clinical excellence, and an unwavering commitment to his patients.

Bob practiced internal medicine in Boardman, Ohio, before making his home in Merritt Island, Florida, where he continued caring for patients with the same dedication that defined his entire career. He also served as a hospitalist, bringing his exceptional diagnostic skills and calming presence to patients during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. In addition, Bob devoted a year of his career to caring for America’s veterans through the Veterans Administration, reflecting his deep respect and gratitude for those who served our country.

In 1984, Bob was honored as Resident of the Year by the Youngstown Hospital Association, an early recognition of the extraordinary physician he would become.

Bob was far more than an outstanding physician—he was a true healer. Compassionate, brilliant, and tireless in his pursuit of helping others, he would do whatever it took to get his patients well. His patients adored him because they knew he genuinely cared about them as people, not simply as patients. He possessed an extraordinary ability to diagnose even the rarest and most complex illnesses, often finding answers when others could not. His keen medical mind was matched only by his kind heart. To countless people, he was not only their physician but also their advocate, confidant, and source of hope.

Outside of medicine, Bob found joy in playing the violin and was an enthusiastic fan of spectator sports. Yet nothing brought him greater happiness than spending time with those he loved. He was a devoted and loving husband to his beloved wife, Barbara, a caring stepfather to Chase, and a loving grandfather to Chett and Carter. He was also a treasured brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. His warmth, humility, and gentle spirit enriched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Those who knew Bob will remember his extraordinary generosity. There was never a more giving person. Whether sharing his time, his wisdom, his resources, or simply a listening ear, Bob gave freely and without expecting anything in return. His kindness, humility, and selflessness left an enduring impression on everyone he met.

A resident of Merritt Island, Florida, Bob is survived by his loving wife, Barbara; his stepson, Chase; his grandchildren, Chett and Carter; his brothers, Larry Udell, Bruce Udell, and Richard Martin; his twin sister, Susan Martin; his sister-in-law, Janet Udell; and his cherished nieces and nephews, Jeremy Udell, Megan Udell, Rebecca Hull, Josh Martin, Nell Martin, Melissa Berman, Nate Berman, Chad Martin, and Alexandra Martin. He also leaves behind many cousins, extended family members, dear friends, former colleagues, and grateful patients whose lives were forever touched by his care.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, August 10, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Florida Memorial Gardens Cemetery, 5950 S. US Hwy 1, Rockledge, Florida 32955.

For thousands of patients, Dr. Bob Udell was the physician who brought answers when there seemed to be none, hope when it was needed most, and compassion at every step. For his family, he was simply Bob—a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose generosity and love knew no limits.

Although his absence leaves an immeasurable void, his legacy lives on in every patient he healed, every life he touched, and every act of kindness inspired by his example. His memory will forever be a blessing.