Robert Eugene Filer

Robert “Bob” Filer, Colonel, U.S. Army (Retired), of Colorado Springs, Colorado, passed away peacefully at home on May 2, 2026, at the age of 91, surrounded by his family. Born April 30, 1935, in Pocatello, Idaho, he was the son of Frank and Ruth (Lintelmann) Filer. He graduated from Idaho State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in bacteriology and earned a commission in the United States Army, later completing a Master of Business

Administration from the University of Georgia along with advanced logistics training.

Colonel Filer served his country with distinction for 31 years, building a highly accomplished military career marked by global assignments, technical expertise, and leadership in complex operational environments. He began his Army aviation career after

completing flight training in 1958–1959 and went on to serve in a wide range of roles, including infantry platoon leader, aviation maintenance officer, and test pilot. His overseas

assignments included tours in Korea, Vietnam, Iran, and Belgium, where he held increasingly senior leadership positions.

Throughout his career, Colonel Filer commanded at critical installations and led highvisibility programs, including serving as airfield commander at Fort Lee, Virginia, and as an aircraft test pilot at Fort Greeley, Alaska, where he supported Arctic testing of advanced aviation systems. He also served at the Pentagon as an Aviation Logistics Support Officer and later commanded the NATO Support Activity in Brussels, Belgium, overseeing multinational logistics operations.

A Master Army Aviator with more than 3,100 flight hours, Colonel Filer was recognized for both his operational skill and leadership. His awards and decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and multiple Air Medals, reflecting a career of sustained excellence and dedication to mission accomplishment.

Following his retirement from active duty in 1984, Colonel Filer continued to contribute to the defense community as a senior program manager in logistics, applying his extensive experience to support critical systems and operations. In 1996, Bob was selected as a Distinguished Member of the Regiment for outstanding service on behalf of the Army Transportation Corps.

Above all, he will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and greatgrandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Gladys (Gavins); his sons, Bob and Rick; five grandchildren, Alan, Alec, Hannah, Jack, and Daniel; three greatgrandchildren, Teia, William, and Benjamin; and his sister, Susan (Filer) Marple.

Colonel Filer leaves behind a legacy defined by service, leadership, and an enduring commitment to both country and family.