Robert “Bob” O’Donnell, a former mesothelioma case investigator at Sokolove Law, passed away on August 8, 2025. He dedicated much of his life to serving others as a U.S. Navy submariner and passionate advocate for veterans with mesothelioma.
Bob enlisted in the U.S. Navy straight out of high school. He completed missions throughout Asia while aboard the USS Razorback and USS Medregal. Following his service, Bob was often exposed to asbestos through construction and utility work.
His combination of military service and occupational exposure allowed him to connect with many mesothelioma patients. After going through law school, Bob put his experience to work at Sokolove Law.
His job involved educating veterans about their increased risk of mesothelioma due to military asbestos exposure and helping them understand their legal options. “Veterans helping veterans is what I like to think of it as,” Bob said about his role.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact Sokolove Law now. We may be able to help you access the support and resources you deserve.
A Veterans Benefits Advocate for Mesothelioma Patients
While at Sokolove Law, Bob traveled to meet with veterans who had mesothelioma. He helped them identify how they may have been exposed to asbestos, so they could hold the companies responsible for their exposure accountable.
Through these efforts, Bob became a trusted voice in the veteran community. His ability to connect on a personal level helped put many mesothelioma patients at ease during what was often one of the most difficult times of their lives.
Bob also spoke at service officer trainings, ship reunions, the VFW National Convention, and American Legion Auxiliary events. He wanted veterans to understand their potential asbestos exposure and what mesothelioma symptoms to look out for.
For many veterans and their loved ones, meeting Bob was the first step toward understanding their diagnosis, learning about their legal rights, and feeling empowered to take action.
“One of my clients was a man whose wife ended up passing away from mesothelioma. When we first spoke, they were broke from all of the medical bills. The firm secured enough money for him to give his wife a proper burial and fly his kids in for the services."
– Bob O’Donnell, Former Case Investigator & Veterans Advocate
The Ongoing Fight for Veterans Exposed to Asbestos
Bob’s work highlighted a critical truth: Veterans account for roughly 33% of all mesothelioma diagnoses. This is due in large part to the widespread use of asbestos on U.S. Navy ships and military bases throughout the 20th century.
Many companies that made and sold asbestos-containing products to the military knew asbestos was dangerous, but they hid this information to protect their profits. That's why mesothelioma lawsuits are filed against these companies, not the military.
”This is not going after the Army, the Navy, or the Air Force,” Bob previously explained. “It’s quite the opposite — the military’s cooperation during our investigations is second to none.”
At Sokolove Law, our asbestos attorneys are committed to holding asbestos-related companies accountable for the harm they’ve caused. We’ve helped countless veterans with mesothelioma secure the justice and compensation they deserve.
"I want Sokolove to be synonymous with this disease, especially for veterans, because with veterans, their recourses are more than just a lawsuit," said Bob. "If we can find the link between the military service, they may also be eligible for VA benefits."
Anyone who was exposed to asbestos during their service and later diagnosed with mesothelioma may be eligible for VA benefits, including disability compensation worth over $3,930 per month and free health care.
These benefits can make a meaningful difference for veterans and their families, helping to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and everyday living expenses.
Bob’s Legacy Lives on Through Our Veterans Affairs Advocates
At Sokolove Law, our mesothelioma law firm is proud to carry on Bob’s legacy and continue fighting for veterans diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases.
As a national law firm, we can help families in all 50 states file asbestos lawsuits. Our VA-accredited attorneys can also help eligible veterans pursue compensation from VA benefits.
To date, we’ve secured more than $1.3 Billion in mesothelioma compensation for veterans and their families.
Call (800) 647-3434 now or fill out our contact form to get started with a free case review. There are no upfront costs or hourly fees to work with our team.
