OBITUARY
Colonel Robert Paul Wagner III (U.S.M.C Ret.)
March 21, 1951 – April 5, 2021
Colonel Robert Paul Wagner, III, USMC (Ret), 70, of Stafford, VA passed away at Mary Washington Hospital on Monday, April 5, 2021. He was born on March 21, 1951 in Columbus, Ohio and was a graduate of Linden-McKinley High School.
The Marine Corps has lost a family man. A true Marines’ Marine. Col Wagner quietly set the example and was mentor to many Marines who affectionately called him ‘Daddy Wags’. He was a friend to all who knew him.
Col Wagner enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1969 and served with 1st Marine Division on Hill 327 outside of Da Nang, Vietnam and with 2nd Recruit Training Battalion at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego as a drill instructor. Following his enlistment, he attended The Ohio State University where he earned his degree in Health Education and went on to work with the Ohio Department of Health for several years. He then returned to service completing Officer Candidates School where he was named honor graduate of 112th Officer Candidate Course. Upon completion of The Basic School and Infantry Officer Course he reported to 1st Battalion 6th Marines where he served as rifle platoon and 81 mm mortar platoon commander and Weapons Company Executive Officer.
In 1982, he reported to 2nd Force Reconnaissance Company, II Marine Expeditionary Force where he served as a reconnaissance platoon commander and operations officer. He then served with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division as a company commander. After completing Amphibious Warfare School in 1986 he was assigned to Headquarters Marine Corps as the company grade infantry officer assignments monitor. From 1988 to 1991, Col Wagner was assigned to the 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division where he served on the regimental staff and with the 1st Battalion, 1st Marines as a company commander and as the battalion operations officer during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm. He was the assigned to the U.S. Department of State, Office for Counterterrorism, Office of Military Affairs. In 1992 he served as a tactics instructor at the Marine Corps Amphibious Warfare School and was selected to attend the Marine Corps Command and Staff College.
He graduated from Marine Corps Command and Staff College in 1994, where he earned a Master of Military Studies Degree. Col Wagner then reported to Special Operations Command Europe where he served from 1994 to 1997 in the Current and Contingency Operations Sections and participated in operations in the Balkans and in Africa. He then reported to 1st Marine Division where he served on the division staff prior to taking command of 2nd Battalion 1st Marines. As Commanding Officer of 2/1 and Maritime Special Purpose Force Commander he deployed with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit to the Western Pacific and Arabian Gulf. In 1999, he attended the Marine Corps War College where he earned a Master’s in Strategic Studies and upon graduation was assigned to the faculty of the Marine Corps Command and Staff College.
From 2002 to 2004, Col Wagner served as Commanding Officer of Weapons & Field Training Battalion, MCRD San Diego. Following his command, he was assigned as Deputy Director for Operations, Headquarters U.S. Marine Corps until his retirement on December 31, 2005.
Following retirement, he remained in government service as Chief Liaison Officer for the Joint Warfare Analysis Center in Dahlgren, Virginia.
His personal decoration includes a The Legion of Merit Medal w/gold star in lieu of second award, Bronze Star Medal w/V, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with gold star, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal w/cluster, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and Combat Action Ribbon.
He is survived by his loving wife, the former Linda Silness of Columbus, Ohio; daughter, Sarah Louise Oliver (Justin); three sons, Robert Evan Wagner (Neila), Eric Hutton Wagner; Thomas Augustus “Gus” Wagner; sister, Barbara Sachs; brother, Gary Bowers; two grandchildren, Leah and Henry, and ten nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held at Quantico Base Chapel on Friday, April 23, 2021 at 1:00 pm. Inurnment will be at a later date in Quantico National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in his name to SemperFiFund.org.
Online condolences may be sent at www.mullinsthompsonstafford.com.
Services
| 23 April |
Celebration of Life1:00 pm Quantico Base Chapel |
Memories
Colonel Robert Paul Wagner III (U.S.M.C Ret.)
have a memory or condolence to add?
ADD A MEMORYJacob Lethin
April 22, 2021
Growing up Col Wagner always inspired a unique awe and respect even among the towering figures who inhabited our neighborhood. Quick with a joke and immensely open he also had the gravitas to put the neighborhood packs of kids in their place if needed. He seemed to inhabit an almost Hollywood character with his sky diving and Harley riding. He was one of the people that made a critical impact on my decision to follow the path towards becoming a Marine Officer.
It was good fortune then that the Wagner family was in Stafford when I made my way to TBS. Having a second family outside the gate was a godsend to me when the oppression of the barracks was too much to handle and I just needed to relax in the “Buckeye Bar”. The Wagner family always treated me like one of their own and I loved getting to spend time shooting the shit with Col Wagner in the bar when I was staying the night and talking the SC OSU rivalry. His guidance and mentoring during TBS and IOC helped mold me into a leader and gave me a rich and deep understanding of what it meant to be both an Infantry Officer and an adult. He treated me not just like the kid down the street, or a 2nd Lt talking to a Colonel, but a peer. I fondly remember the time I was lucky enough to spend with him.
Here’s to you Bob! Go Buckeyes!
Ron McFarland
April 22, 2021
I met Bob while we were both on Okinawa and we later served together as instructors at the Marine Corps Command and Staff College. We bonded as Mustangs. I could tell he had a passion for showing others the way; be it in the Marine Corps way or just the way of life. Mentoring, instructing, training others to do better and accomplish the mission was part and parcel of his character. He impacted many and will be missed.
Semper Fi
Ron McFarland
Col USMC (ret)
Mike Penzo
April 21, 2021
I first met Bob in 1991 when we built our house across from him on Daventry Place. Our families grew up together, kids went to school and college together and more recently, we enjoyed each other’s company during some great martini parties. Bob was my big brother, my role model and a true friend. His humble attitude always amazed me given his success and achievements. I will miss him dearly, think of him often and continue to challenge myself to “be like Bob”. Rest In Peace my friend.
James Fullerton
April 17, 2021
Col. Wagner was a great man, great Marine, and a great mentor. He was my CO in Bravo 1/1. I've always said he played hard and worked hard. I am proud to have served with him. RIP.
JOHN ROSS
April 14, 2021
Sad to learn about Col. Wagner's passing. I grew up with Bob and we graduated from Linden McKinley High School in Columbus, Ohio in 1969.
He was a great guy and we all knew he would rise to the level he did defending our country. He will be missed.
A group of us are trying to nominate Col. Wagner to the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame.
Jeff Patterson
April 13, 2021
I just recently learned of Bob’s passing. He was a true friend and mentor to all who served with him. The Marine Corps is blessed to have many great men In its ranks and Bob was one of the very best. He worked hard and played hard. I never go skiing without thinking about him.
After a 29 Palms training exercise we went to Big Bear where he convinced me, a novice skier, at best, to accompany him down the double diamond slope bare chested. With much coaching and laughter We made it without me
Breaking a leg or either of us getting frostbit! Bob, I know the gates of Heaven are secure and Saint Peter is smiling and happy to have you aboard, but we all miss you. You will remain in our hearts until we join you at the pearly gates. S/F Jeff Patterson
Bob Kean
April 13, 2021
Bob was a great mentor to all of us in The Basic School. He earned the title of “Daddy Wagg’s” because he was oh so much older than the majority of the lieutenants! Doesn’t seem so much now!
I’m humbled and honored to have served with such an incredible Marine.
God bless and Semper fi.....
Steven Hummer
April 12, 2021
Linda and family, Sheri and I send our heartfelt sympathy and share in your sadness at the loss of Bob. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers over this time. Our hearts and minds go back over all the wonderful times that we spent together. You all are special to us. God bless you and His healing presence be upon you during this time of remembrance. Love Sheri and Steve Hummer
Lee Busby
April 11, 2021
Wags . . . thanks for the mentoring and the memories. Meet you on the high ground, brother. S/F, Buzz
Melinda Hofstetter
April 11, 2021
My deepest condolences to Mrs. Wagner and family upon the passing of your dear husband and father. Bob and I were TBS classmates in Bravo 2-80 and both Buckeyes. May his memory be for a blessing.
Melinda Hofstetter, Major, USMC (ret.)
Lionel rotelli
April 11, 2021
Linda, my heart goes out to you. May your faith, family, and friends guide you through this most difficult of times. I will always cherish the memories. Bob and I living at 704 Onslow Gardens at Camp Lejuene, in my infantry days at 1/6. You coming to visit our rather humble abode. Seems like yesterday. He is missed. Semper Fidelis brother, and rest. We have it from here.
Digger Rotelli
Colonel, USMCR(ret)
LtCol GP Mandis, US Marine Corps (Ret.)
April 11, 2021
I extend my most sincere condolences to the Wagner family. Prayer has been offered. 🙏 May the great architect of our universe provide comfort during this difficult time, and may fond memories offer solace. God Bless. ✝️
Steven Hummer
April 10, 2021
Bob was a classmate at AWS then we both were in 1st Marines. We ended up in the Regimental Enhanced Training Section (RETS) together to put on superb and realistic training for the battalions in 1st Marines. I have very fond and wonderful memories of our times in the field and in garrison.
In 2005, we worked on the Marine Special Operations Command, together, along with Jim Laster, and some others calling ourselves the "Space Cowboys," old MEU SOC guys putting together the new unit for Marine Special Operators.
Bob knew his stuff and had great experience as well as a easygoing manner of teaching, leading, mentoring, and caring for his peers and his Marines.
God Bless you, Bob Wagner, and we pray for your loving wife, Linda, and your family. Semper Fi,
Ron Allen
April 10, 2021
Mrs Wagner & Family, sincere condolences for our loss of Colonel Wagner. For myself & I am sure all the members of Bravo Company, 3rd Reconnaissance Bn. It was our good fortune to have him at the helm as our Company Commander during your tour in Okinawa. I take comfort knowing that he lives on through all of you, & the many Marines, Corpsmen & civilians that had the good fortune to experience his leadership & comradery.
Respectfully,
SSgt Ron Allen
Bravo II
Gerry Leonard
April 10, 2021
Tremendous leader, mentor, coach. Grateful our paths crossed at C&SC where he always made time to mentor us young officers. I will miss reading his post-retirement FB posts. Sending my prayers and condolences to his family. RIP warrior.
Terri Kern
April 10, 2021
Bob was my dear friend in the Corps especially at the Basic School in Quantico. He and I would scale the side of the The Basic School and then sit and drink beer on the roof....he was a special guy and was much loved and respected by his fellow Marines......
Mike Einsidler
April 9, 2021
Linda and Family my deepest sympathy for your loss! A Great Man, Marine and Friend! Rest In Peace Daddy Wags! Semper Fidelis
Tom Tunstall
April 9, 2021
It was a pleasure receiving but chewings from Mr. Wagner as my CO in Bravo Co. 1/1.
Semper Fi
TT
John Ptakowski
April 9, 2021
Linda
We are so sorry for your loss. I had some good memories working with Bob during our time together in HQMC and then during our reunion with all the other “dingos” at the bar in Stafford. He will be missed.
We will keep your family in our prayers for peace and comfort during this difficult time.
John(Mook) and Tina Ptakowski
Ben Saylor
April 9, 2021
God puts remarkable men like Bob in our path to make us better. Bob was certainly one of those rare individuals for many to include me. My sincerest condolences to Linda and family on Bob's passing.
Ray OBrien
April 9, 2021
Linda, Sarah, Bob, Eric, and Gus;
Brenee’, Brent, Brendan, Bria and I are truly devastated over the passing of Bob. I don’t think it is possible to sum up our history as neighbors and friends of the last 16+ years in one passage, but do know that our lives have been far more fulfilled in knowing all of you.
We’ve got some very memorable events over the years to include outdoor movie nights, deck hops, margarita and wine evening chats, BBQs, football nights, the “bar-wars” resulting in transformed basements into a nifty Irish pub and the Mecca of Ohio State football, Halloween parties, Christmas celebrations followed by New Years, weddings, birthdays, and so much more.
Linda, you and Bob opened your home when we 1st came to Stafford and welcomed us into the neighborhood “The Hood” with open arms and great big smiles. I can still hear Bob yelling over the fence to Brenee’ “What are you doing? Dog Fishing?” as she led Odie around the deck on a leash. We knew no one when we got there, but you introduced us to all the neighbors and it became “The” place to live. We’ve got a lot of great memories of Bob throughout that time.
For me, Bob was and will always be my friend, colleague, mentor, and Marine Brother. His advice, determined focus, and drive made me a better Marine. Whenever I was down, he picked me up (kicked me in the 6 when I needed it), whenever I was confused he educated me, whenever I was stubborn he was more stubborn, and whenever I was successful he made sure I knew it. He was there when I was promoted and there when I retired. I could always go to him as I grew in the Corps for sage advice.
We’ll surely miss Bob, but know that as long as he is in our memories we’ll still hear his voice, laugh, and spirit – he’ll always be with us.
Semper Fi Colonel!
jenny swain
April 9, 2021
Col. Robert Wagner III, USMC, Dec. was a true inspiration to all who had the pleasure to meet him. These word’s immediately come to mind when I think of Bob… integrity, grit, family and influence. Bob had two loves in his life, the Marine Corps and his family. To which he spoke highly of each in every conversation we had. He was a man of great character who lived and died by a set of principles. He had an amazing gift or power to influence anyone who came into his path. He convinced me (an out of shape civilian) to join the Marine Corps Mud Run. Furthermore, challenged me to jump out of a perfectly good airplane should our team metal. I took him up on the offer as I thought there’s no way, I’d complete the run nor did I think with me on the team that we'd earn a metal. Especially, given the little amount of time to train prior to the event. I learned the hard way to never under estimate Bob or the power of true team work. Bob mapped out a training regiment and quickly put his plan to work. This team was certain we’d metal if meant they had to carry me on over their shoulders or drag me through the mud the entire way…. and they (Bob and Bob Jr.) did just that for the majority of the race! You can guess what followed next but first I received a lesson about grit. Bob taught me that your only as good in life as your word (promises). Do what you say you will do in life and you will earn the trust and respect of others but more importantly you will strength your own character. I mustered up the courage to walk to the edge of the planes door and looked down. Oh, how my stomach sank. I keep my word and jumped but I did not fall but rather began to fly rising over the land and water beneath. Bob, I refuse to say good-bye as we will meet again my friend until then your memory will live on inside the hearts, minds and souls of all who were blessed to have meant you! Spread those protective guardian angel wings of yours and soar over us. ~Jen
David Grimsrud
April 8, 2021
Linda,
My wife, Pat, and I express our sympathy for your loss. I regret that we have not been in touch with you and your family. I trust that Bob's tributes will bring you comfort
Pat and Dave Grimsrud
Phyllis and Bud Narveson
April 8, 2021
Dear Linda,
We were saddened to learn of Bob's death. Our love goes to you and to your family.
Phyllis and Bud Narveson
Erick Kronquist
April 8, 2021
Colonel, then Captain, was an amazing leader. Best company commander I have had the privilege of serving under. He will be truly missed. The United States Marine Corps lost a good one. Heaven has gained a great one. Prayers to the family. Semper Fidelis.
Art Tomassetti
April 8, 2021
It was an honor to serve with Col Wagner. He set an example of a great Marine and great leader. Semper Fi.
June Fenton
April 8, 2021
I'M SO SORRY LINDA AND FAMILY, I spoke with Bobby Paul just a few weeks and will treasure that conversation. Love and prayers sent to all ....Junie bug (cousin)
Kevin Vaughan
April 7, 2021
Col. Wagner was the epitome of a US Marine. I will always hold in the highest regards. It was a privilege to serve under him when he commanded B Company, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines. Never forgotten Sir. Rest easy and Semper Fi.
Marlin Reaves
April 7, 2021
I served as a Dragon Gunner attached to Bravo 1/1 in 1990. Colonel Wagner, then Captain Wagner was the best Company Commander I served with during my time in the Marine Corps. He truly cared for every Marine under his command. RIP sir.
William ' Doc' Bailey
April 7, 2021
The epitome of a Father figure to many young Marines along with a few Navy Corpsman. The heart of a warrior and the guidance of a man of wisdom beyond his years. He has sculpted future generations of Marines and society by his teaching , training and patience. May God Bless his family, friends and Marines. We Have The Watch
Thomas Bennett
April 7, 2021
Proud to have had him as my company commander. Bravo Company First BN First Marines. Like a father to all of us. Rest In Peace Sir
Tom Bennett
Buckhannon WV
Todd Summers
April 7, 2021
He was one of the few good guys . A true leader of Marines . Very few men will earn the respect he did in their lifetime . My condolences and prayers go out to the family .
David Sears
April 7, 2021
Without a doubt, the best Company Commander an Infantry sergeant could hope to have. Leader, mentor, warrior...not enough words to express the impact you had on me and many others you lead. Until Valhalla!
Semper Fidelis
1st Sgt D.P. Sears, USMC, Retired
Mike Scheiern
April 7, 2021
He always uplifted and brought out the best in you--the true leader. Hard to believe he's gone given his toughness and ability to look ahead to something bright even in the most difficult of times. I hope there was cold beer when he arrived at the Pearly Gates--he certainly deserved one for all that he did for so many out of selfless devotion and genuine concern.
James Halinski
April 7, 2021
Thank you for being a mentor and being able to serve with the legendary Daddy Wags when at 1st Marines Regiment. A true Warrior and leader of Marines, I will see u again in Valhalla
Semper Fidelis
James M. Halinski
Kevin Bennett
April 7, 2021
Col Wagner, was a Marines, Marine. Always the professional, you will be sorely missed Sir, my condolences and prayers are with your family. Fair Winds and Following Seas my friend!
Semper Fidelis!
SgtMaj Kevin Bennett, USMC (Ret)