Robert Milford Wells

Arrangements under the directioSMSGT Robert Milfrod Wells (USAF-ret.) of New Braunfels, Texas died peacefully after a two-year battle with lung cancer October 27, 2010, at his Son Richard and Daughter JoAnne’s home near San Antonio, Texas. He deeply believed in service to the country and the communities that he felt had given him and his family so much.

Bob was born in Pasadena, California, June 25, 1938, the son of Thomas Milford Wells and Carol Lea MacKay. He is preceded in death by his father Thomas and his wife Akiko. Bob is survived by his Mother Carol Lea Farnham of Lenexa KS, his brother Ross (Fonda) Wells of Lansing KS. Son Richard (JoAnne ) Wells of San Antonio, Grandson Thomas Wells Active duty USAF stationed in FL, Granddaughter Catherine (Houston) Grier of New Braunfels and Great Granddaughter Brynlee Grier. Bob was loved greatly by many and will truly be missed by all.

Bob enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1955 and was stationed at Johnson AFB, Japan ,where he met his wife of 47 years, Akiko Matsumoto. Bob and Akiko’s only child Richard was born in Japan in June 1959.

Bob was then promoted and transferred to the Strategic Air Command at Beale and Castle AFBs in Northern California supporting Nuclear ICB Missile Silos from 1960 to 1965. Bob also received his Aircraft Pilot’s License in 1964.

In 1966, Bob was again promoted and served at Rhein-Main AFB (Frankfurt Germany) as crew chief with full Diplomatic Credentials on the USAF Europe/NATO Airborne Command Aircraft. In 1968, Bob was again promoted and was transferred to Randolph AFB in San Antonio, Texas where he retired in 1975.

Aside from his distinguished military career, Bob was also a partner in Tri-City TV and helped his son Richard start Dailey & Wells Communications in his garage the early 70’s. Bob received his FAA Airframe and Powerplant license, managed the renovation of the Saudi King’s 747 aircraft with Dee Howard Company, built a Rotorway Helicopter, and founded Wells Marine who imported a 53’ Motor-Sailboat from the Republic of China. Bob also worked with his son as project manager in 1990 implementing the City of Corpus Christi’s Public Safety and the Central Power and Light Regional Communication Networks.

Bob spent a number of years to helping Richard and JoAnne build their new home and winery. Bob was a exceptional Vintner/WineMaster until his passing.

In addition to his 15 year of volunteering of the Alzheimer’s Association, Civil Air Patrol, BAMC, WHMC, and VA medical centers, Bob was also a Master Mason with the Randolph Lodge 1268, Scottish Rite, and Alzafar Shrine Temples.

Visitation will be from 2:00-6:00 pm on Sunday, November 7, 2010 at the Zoeller Funeral Home. Funeral services will be Monday, November 8, 2010 at 11:00 am at the First Protestant Church. Private burial will follow at the Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery with full military honors. The family has requested that memorial contributions be given to the First Protestant Church, 172 W. Coll Street, New Braunfels, Texas 78130.

n of Zoeller Funeral Home, New Braunfels, TX.