Robert Junior Colson

Robert Junior Colson, age 94, and a resident of New Braunfels, passed away early Tuesday morning, February 13, 2018 at his home surrounded by his loving family. Robert was born on April 28, 1923 in Springfield, MO to Fred James Colson and Ruth Camp Colson. He lived his youth in Taft, California. Enlisted and was accepted on a minority cruise basis because of his age; entering the Navy February 5, 1941. He was honorably discharged March 8, 1943. Those years were packed with dangerous and devastating action; being at Pearl Harbor when attacked. He steered the USS Enterprise for four hours each day except when general quarters. His battle station during action was fuse setter on the starboard forward 5” gun during battles. The battles, all in the South Pacific, in which he participated were: Wake Island Raid, the Marcus Island Raid, Battle of the Coral Sea, Battle of Santa Cruz, and Battle of the Eastern Solomon’s. He also was a member of the support group of the Doolittle Raid, for which he received an extra citation. All the time the ship was struggling to stay afloat; dodging the enemy, and repairing damages. He was doing repairs when he lost three fingers on left hand. Also received other injuries. Shortly after discharge, he met and, in a whirlwind courtship, married the love of his life, Mary Frances Colson (although, his beloved horse, Big Red, ran a tight second.) He felt he could not wait for his high school graduation to enlist, so after his marriage, got his GED and earned a B S Degree in Marketing & Finance from Southwest State University, Pittsburg, KS. Shortly before his graduation, was hired by the U S Treasury Department as an Internal Revenue Agent (then called Deputy Collector). Later, held several responsible jobs. Bob’s great passion was law enforcement and he served in every echelon, (volunteer and/or salaried), starting with U S Treasury Department, and including but not limited to, Deputy Sheriff of Bexar County. With Bob, there was no gray area; only black and white. His sense of humor was exceptional. His one liners were enjoyed by his entire family. After his working years, he became inactive socially and lived a very private life. His daughter, Joy, lovingly said he was the most determined person she had ever met. One of his greatest pleasures as he became less active, was his morning cup of coffee and visit with daughter, Lynn. His brother-in-law (Bill Hartley, a fine Christian, said he was the best and deepest Christian he had ever known.) Currently, Bob is a member of First Baptist Church, New Braunfels, but had recently been attending Fellowship Bible Church. He is past member of Trinity Baptist Church, where he taught Sunday School and sang in the choir. He was a devout supporter of the youth. He is a 32nd degree Mason; past Boy Scout Leader. Was member of Sea Cadet Corps, which help form many young peoples’ lives. Was also a very active member of the Civil Air Patrol, where he regularly flew the border with Dave Waggoner. He also was founding editor of the magazine, “Wings over Texas” which had nationwide distribution. Was a member of Sheriff’s Posse. He spent hours with his horses and loved them all; his all time was favorite being his Big Red. He and Mary loved riding together and rode almost every day. He is survived by his wife of 73 years, Mary; daughters, Lynn and husband, Don Kosuda; Joy, and husband, Rocky Hill; grandchildren, Bryan Kosuda and Christina and husband Wes Clark; great grandchildren, Colson, Hartley, Evyn Clark. His one great desire was that he would live till Jesus comes and he and all his loved ones would be gathered together up to heaven in one swoop. His death is leaving a great vacant place in our hearts. He loved his family and his family loved him-he will be greatly missed. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, February 16, 2018 at Fellowship Bible Church here in New Braunfels. Interment with military honors is scheduled for 9:15 AM on Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to the Building Fund at Fellowship Bible Church. Yes, Lord, I’m coming Home, Have heard your call. Will wait in Glory, For my loved ones—all. You have prepared my place in heaven, above, I am so aware of your uncompromising love. My days on earth are through, Do you hear that chariot? I do. (mfc)