Robert Lynn Brugler

Robert Brugler, Feb. 13, 1951 to March 23, 2026 McCordsville, IN

A devoted husband and father, Robert (Bob) Brugler was returned into the arms of God on March 23, 2026 in Fishers, Indiana. Robert was a much-loved man and friend to everyone. He was known for his great sense of humor and his ability to explain things in a way anyone could understand. Always quick with a good (or bad) joke, he would bring a smile to your face.

Robert was born in Bellefontaine, OH to R. Eileen and Bert Brugler. He played high school football and track, attended the Methodist Church, and showed his musical talents by playing guitar.

He attended Bowling Green State University where he met his wife, Barbara McCaulley. They enjoyed playing guitar together and having sing-a-longs around the fire at camp Tecumseh Woods. He was in the Sigma Nu fraternity and obtained a BS in 1973 in Earth Science education. Bob and Barbara married in 1974 in Carrolton, Ohio. They were married almost 52 years. He received his master’s degree from The Ohio State University in 1979 in Environmental Education with an emphasis on interpreting nature.

They moved to Columbus, OH. He began teaching at Gahanna Lincoln High School in 1976 where he remained until he retired 35 years later having taught botany, geology, and environmental education. Often voted the most entertaining teacher, he was known for eating chalk, leading geology field trips, and putting rocks in student’s backpacks. He loved playing the guitar with the fiddle group from Gahanna. On a trip they took to Nashville, they all piled out of the bus at a restaurant and played in the parking lot. Bob was known for buying and selling guitars, mandolins, and even a banjo over the years. As a member of Gethsemane Lutheran Church in Columbus, Ohio, he enjoyed playing guitar with the contemporary choir.

He worked part time at the Columbus Metro Parks. As a volunteer he and daughter Laura entertained guests at Slate Run Historical Farm. At Columbus State Community College, he taught a computer class for 10 years. He was a member of the Sierra Club, Union of Concerned Scientists, and The Association of Lincoln Presenters. He especially loved to mountain climb in the Rockies and the Alps, which included a memorable 2-week rustic hike with Outward Bound.

After retirement Robert became known as President Abraham Lincoln for 14 years as he portrayed the beloved president. There were over 500 events in which he talked in first person as Abe, sharing stories of the life of the president. He brought history to life with dignity and heart. He loved those years and met many wonderful people and when going out to eat with his family, he never sat in a booth. Even at the end, he was proud to tell people he was Abraham Lincoln.

When he moved to Indianapolis with Barbara to be closer to their daughter in 2022, Robert volunteered at Conner Prairie an historic park. He was a member of Christ the Savior Lutheran Church in Fishers.

Wherever Robert went you would hear a story - whether it be about plants, trees, rocks, or Lincoln lore. He will be remembered most for his ability to tell stories and knowing how to engage his audience whether it be in a classroom, on a hike, or at a presentation. He was good at bringing people together. Everyone that knew Robert loved and respected him. He was kind and loving, never knowing a stranger.

We love you and will miss you!

He was preceded in death by his parents R. Eileen and Bert Brugler as well as his grandparents Herman and Blanche Siegenthaler, and Delmer Brugler and Myrtle Rumor. He is survived by his wife, Barbara and daughter and son-in-law Laura and Ian Ndabari.

The memorial service will be held at Christ the Savior Church (10500 E 126th St | Fishers, Indiana 46038) on March 28, 2026, at 2:00 with visitation from 1:00-2:00. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society or ELCA Good Gifts.