Robert Baxla passed away at 86 years old. He retired from the US Army after 27 years of service as a Chief Warrant Officer. He was a master parachutist, having served in the 11th, 82nd, and 101st Airborne Divisions, the XVIII Airborne Corps, and several other non-airborne units. Robert served during Korea and Vietnam. He then joined the SC Department of Corrections where he served for over 20 years and retired as a criminal investigator and state constable. After retirement, Robert taught business and management at Midlands Technical College where he often said that teaching young men and women was the most rewarding job he ever had.
Robert Baxla was preceded in death by his wife, Sandra Baxla, who he said was the love of his life. He is survived by his disabled daughter, Robyn L. Hammons, who he dedicated his life to providing care for. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Joshua N. Hammons and Jonathan S. Hammons, who he lovingly raised as his own sons.
Robert lived a long and fulfilling life and will be remembered forever. He is loved dearly. He lives on in our hearts as he passes on.
His motto he lived his life by, “We just do what we gotta do.”
For those that would like to attend and honor Robert Baxla with his family and friends, full military honors and burial service to be held at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 845 Leesburg Road, Columbia, SC 29209 at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 30, 2022.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.elmwoodfhcolumbia.com for the Baxla family.
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