Joseph Robben
September 01, 1942 - May 31, 2017
- Share:
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
Dr. and Mr. Norman Hamaker says:
June 11, 2017
What comes to mind when we remember Joe is “Service”. Service to his Country and service to his community. When we met him (Norman at the County) and I, on the Camino Lienzo sidewalk. What we learned is he was very involved with Knights of Columbus. We also learned he was about to retire from the County and was looking towards involving himself in something else. Mary Lou asked him if she could recommend him to the Mission Hospital Foundation Board, of which she was a member, and he replied an enthusiastic yes. Over the years, he approached us numerous times to say how grateful he was to be involved on the Hospital Board. That is who he was, a genuine servant of the Lord. Our prayers continue for you Linda, Christy and family as you work through your grief. We are here for you Linda. Rest in Peace, Joseph now you are serving in Heaven.
Your neighbors, Norman and Mary Lou Hamaker
John and Pat Simonich says:
June 11, 2017
Pat and I were privilaged to know Joe – a true gentleman and a role model . Had a ton of fun playing golf with him ( he always beat me ) . Heaven is a better place with Joe in it. May he R.I.P.
LtCol GP Mandis says:
June 11, 2017
RIP fellow Brother-in-Arms. You were an unwavering, dedicated, Leader of Marines. The streets of Heaven are much safer now that Joe has assumed the watch. My deepest condolences to Linda and family. May the Almighty keep you in the palm of his hands, providing strength and comfort during this difficult time, and may great memories offer solace. God Bless. LtCol GP Mandis, US Marine Corps (Ret.)
Lynn Wilson says:
June 11, 2017
Linda. Beginning in 1966 (5th LAAM Bn MCAS Yuma) … then Vietnam … and on through the years … Your Joe was such a memorable influence on me and the many Marines that were fortunate enough to know and serve with him. Forever cool, calm and collected Joe radiated a professional knowledge that few could emulate. What a privilege to have been associated with such an accomplished man and Marine. May God wrap his loving arms around you, in such a way, that you’ll receive daily reminders of his goodness and Grace.
Arabela Higareda says:
June 12, 2017
I had the privilege and blessing to work along side Joe for 7 years as his secretary. Aside from a very professional Boss, he became a mentor and a friend to me and my family. I will forever cherish our conversations as he would speak with love and devotion for his wife and daughter and listen about my family exchanging stories our many life experiences and adventures. He is a true example of a good husband, father, friend and Christian man. I will truly miss hearing from him. Linda and family, I and my family send you our deepest sympathy. Joe, rest in peace and enjoy your rewards in heaven. As he would sign his letters: Respectfully, Arabela Higareda