Joe Robles San Antonio TX: The San Antonio, Texas, and Río Piedras, Puerto Rico communities are mourning the tragic death of General Joe Robles, a decorated military leader and the former CEO and President of USAA – United Services Automobile Association, an American financial services firm that exclusively offers insurance and banking products to members of the military, veterans, and their families. Josue Robles Jr. passed away early Thursday, July 4, 2024, according to his family. He was 78.
Who Was Josue Robles Jr.?
Joe Robles was a figure of immense stature both in the military and financial sectors. Born in Río Piedras, Puerto Rico, to a family of nine children, Robles’ life was marked by service, dedication, and leadership. He was a devoted husband to his loving wife, Patty, and a dedicated father to their three children. Robles retired from USAA in 2015 after serving seven years as President and CEO. His association with USAA began in 1990 when he served on the board while on active service. He officially joined USAA in 1994 as CFO and was named President and CEO in 2007.
Robles’ military career began in 1966 when he joined the United States Army. Over the next 28 years, he held various command and staff positions, including active duty assignments in Korea, Vietnam, Germany, and Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm in the Middle East. He served as the Army budget director and commanding general of the 1st Infantry Division (the Big Red One). Robles also contributed his expertise to several boards, including DTE Energy, the CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Health System, the CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Children’s Hospital Foundation, San Antonio’s Early Childhood Education Municipal Development Corporation, and the United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County.
Robles held a Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from Kent State University and a Master’s degree in business administration from Indiana State University. His military education included the US Army Command and General Staff College, the Spanish Army General Staff College, and the United States Naval War College.
Early Life and Career of Josue (Joe) Robles Jr.
Robles’ journey to greatness began in modest circumstances. As a young boy, he worked as a stock boy at a local grocery shop and eventually became a cashier. He also did yard work and assisted his father with plumbing and construction projects. His early ambition was to work in the steel factory but as a skilled laborer such as a pipe fitter or an electrician. Despite these humble beginnings, Robles’ academic prowess earned him a scholarship from the local medical society, which pledged to fund his studies if he agreed to return to his hometown to practice medicine.
Robles graduated from high school in 1964 and spent the summer painting a house to save enough money to fund his first year’s tuition at Lorain County Community College. That same year, he married and took a full-time job at a NASA nuclear plant, where he was responsible for ensuring that the reactor did not emit excessive radiation. After basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, Robles’ exceptional test results led to a recommendation for Officer Candidate School. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant and served in Korea and subsequently Vietnam in 1967, where he led two units and learned valuable lessons about leadership and teamwork.
The USAA Years: Leadership and Legacy
Throughout his Army career, Robles and his family relocated frequently. These moves were particularly challenging due to the needs of their autistic son, Christopher, requiring constant adjustments to new schools, teachers, and therapists. Seeking stability for his family, Robles retired from the Army in 1994 and joined USAA, a financial services corporation catering to military members. He started as the chairman’s special assistant and quickly rose to the position of Chief Financial Officer.
In 2007, Robles was appointed President and CEO of USAA. During his tenure, he led the organization to unprecedented success and fostered an innovative culture. He expanded USAA membership to anyone who had served honorably in the United States military and their families. His leadership, reflecting the values he learned in the military, helped steer USAA through economic challenges, ensuring its continued growth and stability.
Robles’ military service was recognized with numerous awards, including the Distinguished Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Legion of Merit with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster, and the Meritorious Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster. In 2009, the Christian Science Monitor named him the outstanding business veteran, and American Banker awarded him the Innovator of the Year.
Philanthropy and Community Engagement
Robles was deeply committed to philanthropy and community service. He served on the American Red Cross Board of Governors, the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas-San Antonio Branch, DTE Energy, CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Health System, CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Children’s Hospital Foundation, and the P16Plus Council of Greater Bexar County Foundation. In 2010, he led San Antonio’s most successful United Way campaign, ensuring that community services could meet increasing demands.
Robles and his wife, Patty, were passionate about giving back, particularly to charities benefiting children and ensuring the best education for all, including those with physical and developmental challenges like their son, Christopher. In 2019, Robles joined the Genesis Wealth Management Advisory Board, continuing his commitment to service and leadership.
A Lasting Legacy
The passing of Joe Robles leaves a significant void in both the military and financial communities. His dedication to service, leadership, and philanthropy touched countless lives. The communities of San Antonio, Texas, and Río Piedras, Puerto Rico, mourn the loss of a great leader and a compassionate individual.
Joe Robles’ obituary and funeral arrangements will be released by the family. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of leaders, reminding them of the importance of service, integrity, and compassion.
