Remembering Robert Epstone 1948 -2024

Bali Update Editorial Team

23 hours ago

Invitation to a “Celebration of Life” for a Bali Hero: Wednesday, 11 December 2024

Friends, colleagues, and admirers of the recently deceased Bali Hero – Robert Epstone, are cordially invited to gather together in his name at the Finns Recreation Club in Canggu, North Kuta, on Wednesday, 11 December 2024, between 5:00 pm and 9:30 pm.

FINNS – a major sponsor of Solefamily Bali – is donating proceeds from beverage sales to the Foundation. A cash bar will operate with food on tap for the occasion.

“Facebeats,” – a Bali Tribute Band and one of Robert’s favorite musical groups, will provide music for the evening.

Admission to the evening is free of charge.

Solefamily Bali is the major Bali-based Charity founded by Epstone in 2011 that has provided existential support and assistance to thousands of needy and disadvantaged Balinese who might have fallen through any existing social safety nets.

Epstone died in the United Kingdom on 01 October 2024 after a brave and dignified battle with brain cancer.

In 2011, with Epstone already in his 60s, Robert completed a fund-raising 535 km barefoot circumnavigating Bali. During this historic trek, Epstone stopped in local villages to conduct workshops and medical health checks in villages where, in many cases, a doctor had never visited. In 2012, a second barefoot walk saw Robert undergo emergency surgery performed on a school desk for a severe foot injury, compelling Robert to complete the walk on crutches.

In a decision driven by empathy for those who can’t afford shoes, Epstone decided he would go barefoot as a way to help raise funds and underline his credibility and reputation as a man of integrity – an honest, reliable, and passionate person people who could be trusted to lead a charity.

**Robert Epstone “Teddy-trafficking” to Raid Funds**

SoleFamily Bali

In March 2023, Solemen rebranded as Yayasan Sole Family Bali (SFB). The name change to SoleFamily reflects the Charity’s unwavering commitment to providing comprehensive support for needy families. Today, Sole Family Bali is one of Bali’s most respected and reputable non-profit health organizations.

Epstone was a popular and high-profile personality in Bali. His friendly nature attracted many to ally themselves with his causes and campaigns. His boldness enchanted many – sometimes made replete with signature feathers and, for a period, bare feet. Yet, others felt their defenses rise, unsure of how to engage with someone so unconventional and unrelentingly committed to making a difference. By any standard, Robert Epstone was a colorful character who left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

In keeping with Robert Epstone’s ebullient and flamboyant personality, those attending the memorial gathering at FINNS are encouraged to dress for the event in any “whacky” style of their choosing, knowing that Robert would have dressed similarly were on hand to attend.

To assist the organizers in preparing for the evening, those planning to attend, honor, and remember Robert Epstone are kindly asked to register their intent to attend via: