Robert (Bob) Bondurant, RN, LCSW, Executive Director of the Missouri Physicians Health Program (MPHP) for 26 years passed on February 20, 2020 at the age of 74. He lost a very difficult battle with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, leaving us too soon.
His intention was to remain in his position until he was 80 years old as he was passionate in his dedication to providing quality recovery that led to restored lives, families and careers. Bob was always available to meet or talk with a physician in need. He impacted the lives of thousands of people over his many years of service. Bob was tireless in traveling across the state to spread the word of our available resource and desiring most of all to warn medical students and residents about the pitfalls they could succumb to. He always preferred to speak extemporaneously with his educational presentations which allowed him to read the audience and keep them engaged. He understood that physicians were inundated with PowerPoint presentations, and were often relieved with his style of presentation. Following a presentation, Bob would sometimes hear from one of the attendees who was relieved to know of the MPHP and that he could talk confidentially about some problem that was plaguing them.
At times a physician was told by their hospital or the Board of Healing Arts that they must join our program. At that point, the physician often was resentful, however, later as they matured into their recovery, they sometimes would send notes saying that they realized they had been rude and unappreciative at first, but now were extremely grateful for their career and life that was saved.
Bob had a unique and diverse background that served him well in leading the MPHP. After an honorable discharge from the U.S. Army, having completed his tour of duty in Vietnam, he earned his Master’s Degree in Social Work. Bob worked in the corrections arena, performing casework as well as acting as Superintendent of the St. Louis County Jail. He then had a private practice as a social worker where he provided counseling and performed interventions for families of alcoholics and drug addicts. Bob went on to several nursing positions having worked for Barnes Jewish Hospital, St. Anthony’s Psychiatric Center, and Alexian Brothers Hospital.
In 1994, he began his career with the MPHP. When he was hired, he only had one part-time assistant. Under his leadership, he developed the reach of the MPHP across the state, stimulated donations from hospital administrations and medical staffs, as well as built an effective team around him to accomplish the overall mission of the program. Each staff member feels his loss profoundly. He truly was the heart of the MPHP. While taking his responsibilities seriously, he kept us energized and at times laughing at his clever wit and humor.
One of the traits of his leadership style was that he would sit down with each staff member almost daily, as the demands on his time allowed. He kept us informed on important developments, and inquired about our work. He made each of us feel like a valued team member.
Bob was an influential member of the national organization, Federation of State Physician State Programs, having served on its board, as well as a number of committees. He was respected for his ideas, as well as for developing the MPHP to the point of being considered a model program which other state programs could emulate. Bob was steadfast in wanting the program to remain independent in order to be able to advocate honestly for a physician when he was called to do so by the Board of Healing Arts. His reputation was such that he was invited to speak at a national meeting of the AMA in Hawaii about physician health.
One of his constant concerns was the lack of compassion on the part of many physicians. Many would express their appreciation for our services, but were reluctant to provide financial donations to help maintain the program. Very few program alums made donations after they had “graduated” and were again working and getting on with their lives. As a 501(c) 3 organization that is dependent on donations for more than 50% of its operating budget, that had always been distressing.
Bob leaves behind a wife, Marley Ann Herzog, two sons, David O. Bondurant and Stephen R. Bondurant, two daughters, Melissa A. Wright, and Nicole M. Bondurant, as well as grandchildren Brayden Bondurant, Elizabeth (“Ellie”) Bondurant, and Colin Wright.
Bob was equally passionate about his family life. I remember on occasion his receiving a phone call from his daughter anxious for him to return home to help her with some difficulty. He never refused her. Bob was so proud of his daughter, Nicole, for becoming a nurse. While she was in nursing school, he often worked with her in the evenings to help her prepare for an exam or class.
Since his passing, the staff have received cards and donations dedicated to Bob’s memory. Some have written comments on the website, dignitymemorial.com about his impact on their lives that you may enjoy reading. If you would like to make a donation in Bob’s honor, please send a check to the MPHP, 1023 Executive Parkway, Suite 16, St. Louis, MO 63141.