About Dr. Kolbe Dr. Robert Kolbe’s career in medicine began with him literally dispensing medication. As a new graduate of Purdue University’s School of Pharmacy, he spent one year behind the counter before deciding he wanted to go to medical school. After graduating from the Indiana University School of Medicine, he then completed his residency at the Memorial Hospital of South Bend Family Practice Residency Program. Through his decades of practice, Dr. Kolbe says he has learned humility from his patients. Serving patients in smaller communities including Bremen has helped him stay in his preferred environment. “I wanted to treat the whole person and wanted a more rural practice where I could provide primary care,” he says. Dr. Kolbe’s approach to practicing medicine is to listen to his patients’ stories and answer questions they have about themselves. “I look at the whole individual – emotional, physical and spiritual,” he says. Working at Beacon is a positive moment in his career. “I did residency at Memorial Hospital and I know and trust medical leadership there,” he says. “Beacon is associated with our local community hospital and has done well providing what our small town residents need, in a high quality manner.” In his own words… Who is or was the most influential people/role models in your life?  Cecil Burket, MD, a longtime Bremen physician and fellow church member. What was your first job growing up?   Carry out at grocery store. What is your favorite food? Movie? What was your best/worst subjects in school growing up?  Favorite food: Pizza; Favorite movie: Casablanca; Best school subjects: All math and science If you could sit down to dinner with anyone (alive or deceased) who would it be and why?  Ronald Reagan. He was a great leader who seemed to bring people together and who was strong on the world stage. In addition to medicine, what are you passionate about? What are your hobbies, interests?  I am passionate about my family and I like to read. What is something most people don’t know about you?  I worked as a welder and plumber while going to college.