Corpus Christi businessman, community servant Robert Adler dies at 82

Robert Adler, known for his dedication to community service in Corpus Christi and Nueces County, has died. He was 82.

Adler, husband of former Del Mar College regent and City Council member Chris Adler, died on July 4. 

Adler served on several boards, including the Nueces County Tax Appraisal District, the West Corpus Christi Rotary, the Lexington Museum board of directors, the USO of South Texas board of directors, the Women's Shelter, B'Nai Israel Synagogue and the Westside Business Association.

He and his wife were recognized for their commitment to the South Texas Council of the Boy Scouts of America with the Distinguished Citizen Award in 2003. 

Adler said the award was one of the highest honors of his life, according to a 2003 Caller-Times article. He believed scouting helped him to overcome dyslexia.

Adler owned a bulk paper company and a metal recycling company. He sold his paper company in 1991 and ran his Atlas Iron and Metal for almost 50 years. He later owned businesses in Brownsville and Laredo.

He was recognized by the Association of Fundraising Professionals with the Outstanding Philanthropic Organization award and named an honorary chair by the Coastal Bend Food Bank in 2013.

The Adlers had five children: Troy, Bobbie, Kyle, Wayde and Matthew.

Though known for his love for the community, Robert also had a soft spot for dogs. He was sometimes called the "Mayor of the Westside" and fed stray dogs leftover food from the restaurants he frequented.

"Robert was a loving husband, father, and grandfather," state Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen, said in a public statement. "All who knew Robert knew that the 4th of July was a special day to celebrate America’s birthday with family, friends, and the community. He will be missed by us all but his memory and his legacy will live on.

"My thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones. May Robert Adler Rest in Peace and be in Heaven."

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Ashlee Burns covers trending and breaking news in South Texas. See our subscription options and special offers at Caller.com/subscribe.