Robert Roubik

Colonel Robert Andrew Roubik, husband, father, grandfather, aviation enthusiast and earnest cartophile, passed away peacefully after a brief illness 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.

Colonel Roubik grew up in Alexandria, MN and attended Minneapolis General Hospital School of Nursing and Minneapolis School of Anesthesia. After graduation, he joined the United States Air Force as a 2nd Lieutenant and was stationed at Hill AFB, Utah for 3 years. Completing his assignment, he transitioned to civilian life, established a private anesthesia practice, and raised a family living in Colorado and Oregon for 7 years. Believing he had more to offer the military, he reactivated in the Air Force in 1973 and was assigned to Sheppard AFB in Wichita Falls, Texas for 14 months before deploying overseas to be Chief of Anesthesia and Emergency Services for the 432nd USAF Combat Support Hospital, Royal Thai AFB, Udorn, Thailand. Finishing his tour in 1975, he was assigned to Malcolm Grow USAF Medical Center, Andrews AFB, Washington, D.C. as a staff anesthetist. Robert didn't remain content for long; he made the decision to join the USAF Reserve, which allowed him the time to work and earn his Master of Science from George Washington University. Robert made Major in 1976, Lt. Colonel in 1981, and Colonel in 1986 at the age of 42. Colonel Roubik was assigned to Lackland AFB, San Antonio, Texas as the acting Director of the School of Anesthesia when called into active duty for Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. He was a graduate of the National Security Management Program, National Defense University, Ft. McNair, Washington, D.C. and Air War College. Having served in the United States Air Force for 37 years, Colonel Roubik retired with honors in September 1995.



Robert held the position of Chief Nurse Anesthetist at George Washington University Hospital; he also taught and conducted research at the School of Medicine and Health Sciences. In his long career, 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. Robert began the first intravenous line and rapidly administered four units of blood in the trauma bay and another in surgery; he was one of three anesthesia team members that provided anesthesia and life support in saving President Reagan's life.

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, young and old alike.

Beyond his distinguished service, Colonel Roubik was a man of great character, deeply loved by his family and friends. He developed a love for the outdoors, spending summers at Glacier National Park with his parents. His father, Andrew (Chief Many Guns) and he (Chief Eagle Leader) were bestowed honorary membership into the Blackfeet Nation, a profound act of recognition, a bridge built between cultures, and a testament to shared values. Robert had a lifelong passion for exploring the world, whether on safari in Africa, roadtripping throughout Europe, or riding the bullet train around Japan; he embraced new experiences with the same enthusiasm he applied to all aspects of life.

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 will be scheduled, date to be determined. 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.