Condolence: It was my pleasure to have known Bob through our connection to the insurance industry. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Hyle family.

Condolence: I’ve known Bob for many years as an industry colleague and, at one point, somewhat of a competitor. He consistently exemplified fairness, objectivity and common-sense journalism, something that can be a challenge to uphold in the trade publishing world. Perhaps more important was Bob’s warmth, kind nature and sense of humor, which signaled that he had his priorities straight. I know he will be missed by many, including me, and I want to pass along my heartfelt condolences to his wife and his family.

Condolence: Sue and family, we are so sad to hear about Bob’s passing! He was such a wonderful neighbor! It warmed our hearts to see so many family members and friends gathered around to be there with you! We are right next door if you need anything. Our deepest sympathy!! Praying for all of you.

Condolence: Our paths first crossed when our kids we in local sports and I had the pleasure meeting Bob on the field. I was instantly impressed that he was one of those dad’s that put the games in perspective …kids first. He never tried to re-live his athletic prowess thru his son…a lesson many dads should have learned. While our contact over the year was mostly “virtual” thru emails etc. I always felt that he was one of those very special people who come into your life. His wit and self-deprecating humor and his way with words sometimes funny and other times inspiring. We would trade some info here and there as we were both writing, he much better than I, for the Harrison Press. I for one am fortunate he crossed my life. I am better for it.

Condolence: Yesterday we learned of the passing of our esteemed colleague Robert Regis Hyle, known to everybody as Bob. The insurance technology realm is a small world, and the cadre of journalists who cover it regularly is smaller still. With Bob’s passing last Saturday, it feels even smaller and emptier. Much as we journalists all tried to do our best and perform well against our competitors over the years, rivalry among the different publications was never intense—partly because we were so few, but mostly because everybody was so friendly. Nobody exemplified that tendency more than Bob. Having started reporting on the insurance industry’s technology scene in 1999, Bob interviewed a great many insurance executives over the years. He also worked regularly with all the analysts, and of course with countless representatives of the various software, hardware and services companies who are suppliers to the industry. Many, many people had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know Bob, and they will miss him because of the kind of person he was. Robert Regis Hyle, 1951-2017. Jim Daggett, Bob’s business partner at the Insurance Technology Association (ITA), described Bob as a “gentle giant.” At first sight, one noticed Bob’s imposing height and a certain distinguished demeanor. As the conversation continued, he revealed himself as a very intelligent and knowledgeable journalist, but also as a genial, considerate, even avuncular fellow. Not given to dark suits and power ties, Bob came across more like a friendly professor than the curious and energetic journalist he was. Anyone questioning that latter characterization need only review Bob’s immense output over the years. If you had the opportunity to kick back with Bob, you experienced Robert Regis Hyle the keen observer and wry humorist. Bob knew people, he knew the industry and he had some sharp—though never ungenerous—observations. Because of his deep experience, he had great stories too. Trade journalists often start their careers fresh out of college, some have writing or editorial experience from other fields, such as marketing and public relations. Bob was the classic Midwestern newspaper man type. That wasn’t just style. Bob began his career in local news. And despite being one of the most prolific reporters in the insurance technology space, Bob also reported on local events and sports where he lived, on the Indiana/Ohio border. He owned the Harrison Record newspaper, and wrote for the Harrison Press for over three decades. Bob’s local reporting was just one of the ways he showed that he was his own man. Bob established his reputation as creative competent journalist at the top of his niche, successful because he understood the material and knew how to manage confidences. He distinguished himself at a time when the publishing industry was feeling increasing pressure and editors were called upon to do more and more. Bob began his insurance-related career as editor of Ohio Underwriter, and became an insurance technology writer when he joined National Underwriter’s TechDecisions publication. His work continued there when the publication rebranded as PropertyCasualty360.com. He left his post as Editor-in-Chief there to co-found ITA with Jim Daggett in 2013. Bob was ITA’s content guy, and Editor-in-Chief of ITA Pro magazine.  It was gratifying to see Bob crown his career as truly independent journalist and publisher in our field. But it was gratifying because Bob was such a success as a human being. He leaves us a dear friend and colleague, and also as a beloved husband, father and grandfather. I include two comments below, one from Jennifer Overhulse, a colleague of Bob’s on the marketing/communications side of the industry, and a brief excerpt from the farewell notice that Jim Daggett published yesterday, with Jim’s kind permission. “I worked in the office next door to Bob Hyle at National Underwriter for years, and then continued to work with him after we both moved on from there, him to ITA and me to St. Nick Media,” Jennifer recalls. “Bob was a reliable standard in the industry, and a wordsmith workhorse. He was also one of the nicest, most genuine, down to earth people I have ever met. I will always remember the good times, the laughs, and the friendship. My heart goes out to his wife, Sue, and the rest of the Hyle family. Bob will be missed.” Jim Daggett wrote, in terms that will resonate for many, “I will miss Bob, his kind heart, his quick wit, his happy-go-lucky demeanor, professionalism, and his talent as a journalist. I could, obviously, fill several more pages, but will suffice it to say I would like to sincerely thank him for all of his service and hard work over the years, but most of all for his friendship.”

Condolence: God Speed Bob. I feel privileged to have enjoyed yearly interviews with Bob leading up to the IASA conference. Always a delight to spend time in his company.

Condolence: Bob was a kind and gentle man. Always dedicated to his work and always a pleasure to work with. He will be missed personally and professionally. May his memory be a blessing to his family and friends.

Condolence: To Bob's family - I had the pleasure of getting to know Bob through various insurance industry events as well as his work on various publications. I really knew him through our professional connections - even there he was so personable. His smile is something that immediately comes to mind when I think of Bob. My condolences to all of you. May he rest in peace.

Condolence: I first met Bob back in 2008. He would send me an email wanting insights for whatever article he happened to be writing. Bob was always so good at providing thought provoking questions that got to the crux of the matter he was reporting on. He was so knowledgeable about the industry and knew everyone. The last time I saw Bob, we chatted about how fast everything was moving and how important it was to take time out for family and friends. I'll miss him. My deepest sympathies. We lost a good one.

Condolence: I was fortunate to work with Bob for many years. He was an excellent writer and editor, but equally important he treated every co-worker with respect and always had a smile on his face. You are in my prayers.

Condolence: My thoughts and prayers are with Bob's family. Bob was a great guy. I enjoyed seeing him at all the different industry events over the years. He will be missed.

Condolence: My prayers go out to the Hyle family. I was fortunate to meet Bob through the ITA - he will be truly missed...especially his great smile!

Condolence: I had the pleasure of working with Bob for many years, and learned so much from the experience. He was a consummate professional and prolific writer who could craft engaging and well researched articles in mere minutes. Bob shared his knowledge willingly, which is something I'll always appreciate. You will be missed by many, Bob.

Condolence: I am so very saddened to hear of Bob's passing. Working in the same industry, I have known Bob for years and have always enjoyed his dry sense of humor, knowledge, kindness, and generous spirit. He will be missed. Remembering Bob and his family in my prayers.

Condolence: I had the pleasure of meeting Bob through his work with ITA Pro magazine. He was a caring, wonderful person with a talent for writing great articles of which I was lucky enough to appear in a few of. My deepest sympathies to Bob’s family and friends I am sure he will be very missed by all as I know he is by all of us in the insurance world. God bless and Godspeed Bob

Condolence: Bob was a pleasure to work with. He will be missed. My sympathy to his family.

Condolence: I was a classmate of Bob at LaSalle HS, Class of 1969. He left his mark on the class with his high energy, many friendships, and passion for sports. My deepest sympathy to Bob's family. May he Rest In Peace.

Condolence: Frank, Nancy & Family~ So very sorry for this loss. Prayers for all. Peace be with you.

Condolence: Whenever we attended a Hyle Family event, Bob always met us with a very-happy-to-see-you smile, a twinkle in his eyes, and a comment or joke to make us laugh. If we perused a room, Bob was easiest to spot --- he was the one with the wide grin and easy laughter. Where there was Bob, there was joy. Our love and prayers for Bob, his cherished family, and many friends.

Condolence: Susan and family I am so sorry for your loss. May the thoughts and prayers from others give you comfort and peace. You are in my prayers. My deepest sympathy