Joseph Robben
September 01, 1942 - May 31, 2017
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Joseph Robben
September 01, 1942 - May 31, 2017
Obituary
JOSEPH WILLIAM ROBBEN, JR., 74, Colonel, United States Marine Corps (Ret), peacefully passed away in the early morning hours of May 31, 2017 at his home in San Clemente, CA, with his wife, Linda, at his side.
Born September 1, 1942, this native of Hoxie, Kansas, was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in June 1964 and retired from active duty in June 1994. During a 30-year career, he commanded from 35 to 3,100 Marines as a platoon, battery, squadron and group Commanding Officer. His final three-year assignment was as the Chief of Staff, Marine Air Bases Western Area and Marine Corps Air Station El Toro.
His first combat service was as Commanding Officer of Battery “B”, lst Light Anti-Aircraft Missile Battalion near Danang, Republic of Vietnam in 1967-1968. His second tour of combat service was twenty-three years later in Desert Shield/Storm. As Officer in Charge and Principal Planner for Marine Aviation Operations at U.S. Air Forces Central Command in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, he was a member of a team that developed the offensive air battle into Kuwait and Iraq the night of January 16, 1991.
Colonel Robben’s awards include three Legions of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Achievement Medal with Combat “V”, Combat Action Ribbon, various unit, combat service and humanitarian awards. He holds degrees from Creighton University and the University of Southern California. He is a graduate of the National War College and the Defense Systems Management College.
On July 1, 1994, Joe became Manager, Communications Division, County of Orange responsible for public safety radio communications for the County and 31 cities. He retired in July 2004 as Division Director.
Beginning in 2006 Joe served in numerous roles in support of the Sisters of St. Joseph and Mission Hospital, his last being on the Board of Trustees since 2012.
Joe is survived by his wife Linda of 50 years, daughter Christina Braggiotti and husband John; brothers and sisters: Bert, Laura, Annet, John, and Marsy, their spouses, five nieces and five nephews.
Military Committal Services and burial will take place on Wed., June 14, at Miramar National Cemetery, San Diego.
In lieu of flowers, you may consider a donation in Joe’s name to Mission Hospital Foundation, 27700 Medical Center Road, Mission Viejo, CA 92691, Tel. (949) 364-7783.
40 responses to Joseph Robben
Bob Snelson says:
June 10, 2017
There is an endless list of comments that I could present about my fellow Marine officer, Colonel Joe Robben. Most significant is that he gave me opportunity as a junior officer in our first assignment together and later, as a member of his APC, HQ Marine Corps team to do my best with his total support to do things that made the Marine Corps more effective and added unbelievable combat capability.
Dear Linda – you have fought the ultimate battle with Joe. It is with heavy hearts that Judi and I say that we can not be with you in physical presence as these days of celebration of Joe’s life are upon us. But our prayers continue for you and Christie to endure the loss of Joe with acceptance that he is with our Lord, Jesus Christ. Our condolences are extended to the whole family as we share grief together.
Semper Fidelis, Lt Col Robert Luke Snelson USMC (Retired)
Carol Beck says:
June 10, 2017
What a fine “gentleman and officer”. I will always appreciate how kind and supportive he was in comforting and guiding my dear sister during some Alzheimer’s related incidents in my absence. Quick with a smile and a helping hand, he made my move to the Gallery easier and more pleasant. I was delighted to be able to share a beer mug from Philadelphia’s Tun Tavern ( birthplace of USMC) and “brew” remarks with him.
I know the angels are saluting him and welcoming him into their ranks.
Carol Beck
Carol Tiberi says:
June 10, 2017
We were blessed to be able to call Joe and Linda neighbors and friends. We will miss Joe’s smile but know that he is at peace with his Maker. Linda, you have been his rock and sunshine through the last two years. Now take care of yourself. You are both in our prayers.
Sam and Carol Tiberi
David Schaefer says:
June 10, 2017
Joe was a fine man and a wonderful neighbor. We value our time spent with Joe and Linda. Joe was a fine American – always ready to serve in whatever capacity was needed. May he rest in peace. Dave & Cheryl Schaefer
Howard Newton says:
June 10, 2017
Joe was a role model for me when I worked at Orange County Communications. Still is. Great Integrity and always Humble. So Blessed to have him in our lives. So sorry for your loss. Praying for your family. Howard Newton.