Remembering Robert Epstone: A Life Dedicated to SoleFamily Bali

Robert Epstone, who walked barefoot to raise $1 million for Bali's vulnerable, has sadly passed away. Read his inspiring story, and learn how you can continue his mission with the organisation he co-founded, SoleFamily Bali.

FINNS Bali has been a proud sponsor and supporter of SoleFamily Bali for many years. It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of SoleFamily co-founder, Robert Epstone. Robert left us in October at the age of 75, surrounded by his family in England after a brave fight with cancer. While his physical presence is no longer with us, his legacy of kindness, compassion, and service remains.

Robert’s journey in Bali began in 2009 with the intention of seeking peaceful retirement. However, Bali had different plans for him. After a transformative 15-month project building wells in East Sumba with the Rotary Club of Bali Seminyak, he felt a calling to give back to the island that he called his home. That calling led him to create his own NGO, Yayasan Solemen Indonesia, where Robert made a promise to himself — he would walk barefoot until he raised $1 million for the foundation.

A promise he fulfilled with unwavering determination, a reflection of his unshakeable commitment to making a difference.

His partnership with dear friend and former nurse, Sarah Chapman, brought SoleFamily to life — an organisation dedicated to restoring dignity, hope and wealth to Bali’s most vulnerable. SoleFamily didn’t just offer help, they offered love. 

Robert’s work and dedication were further enriched by the support of his partner, Shelley, who was by his side every step of the way. Shelley’s caring heart played an instrumental role in SoleFamily’s mission, providing compassionate care to those in need. Tragically, Shelley passed away recently, but her spirit and commitment to making the world a better place live on through the work she helped build alongside Robert.

Through tireless work and effort, over the years, they’ve touched the lives of over 4,500 families and successfully released 54 individuals from pasung (shackling due to mental health challenges), each of whom felt the profound impact of SoleFamily’s selflessness.

In March 2023, Solemen rebranded to Yayasan SoleFamily Bali (SFB), continuing Robert’s mission with a renewed focus on holistic family support. Today, his work lives on through Sarah and their dedicated team, who carry the vision forward on a day-to-day basis, ensuring that Robert’s compassion and care continue to transform lives.

A Celebration of Robert’s Extraordinary Life

On 11 December 2024, friends, family and colleagues gathered at FINNS Recreation Club to celebrate Robert’s incredible journey. The event was filled with laughter, tears, and fond memories, as everyone embraced Robert’s spirited request for a “whacky” dress code — perfectly embodying Robert’s vibrant spirit. 

The event featured silent auctions with prizes generously donated by sponsors, drinks, canapés and live music from Robert’s favourite band, The FaceBeat. In true Robert fashion, it was an event filled with joy and giving, raising an incredible amount to support SoleFamily’s ongoing work.

How You Can Help

Robert believed that every act of kindness, no matter how small, had the power to change the world. In his honour, we invite you to continue his mission by:

  • Sponsoring a SoleBuddy
  • Donating food or money
  • Purchasing special commemorative memorabilia

To learn more about these opportunities, please visit: https://solefamily.org/commemorative-memorabilia/

A Special Tribute: Robert’s Interview

As part of Robert’s lasting legacy, we are honoured to share an interview we conducted with him about the founding of SoleFamily. In this conversation, Robert discusses the inspiration behind establishing Solemen and how it evolved into SoleFamily. 

It serves as a powerful reminder of his unwavering commitment to helping others, and we hope it inspires all who watch to carry his mission forward.

Watch the full video interview below.

“Always give without remembering and always receive without forgetting.” – Robert Epstone

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