Josue “Joe” Robles Jr., former president and CEO of USAA, has passed away at the age of 78. The cause of his death has not been disclosed at this time, and his passing has left a profound sense of loss among his community, colleagues, and especially those at USAA. His family is in need of prayers and thoughts during this painful moment. Joe Robles was born in 1946 in Río Piedras, Puerto Rico, the oldest of nine children. His early life was marked by significant challenges and the inspiring resilience of his family. When a group of recruiters approached his father, who was working as a server, they were looking for laborers for steel mills on the mainland United States. The end of World War II had prompted a reindustrialization effort, and the United States needed labor. Seeing an opportunity, Joe’s father decided to move to Lorain, Ohio, to work for U.S. Steel. Eighteen months later, he had saved enough money to send for his family, allowing them to join him when Joe was three years old.
This move marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Robles family. Despite the challenges of relocating to a new country and adjusting to a different culture, Joe’s family instilled in him the values of hard work, perseverance, and dedication. These values would become the foundation of Joe’s character and the driving force behind his future success. Growing up in Lorain, Ohio, Joe faced the typical struggles of an immigrant family trying to make a new life in America. He helped his family in any way he could, balancing school with work to contribute to their household. His parents emphasized the importance of education, and Joe excelled in his studies, driven by a desire to honor his parents’ sacrifices and build a better future.
Joe’s commitment to excellence continued into his adulthood. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Army, a decision that would shape the course of his life. Over the next 28 years, Joe Robles had a distinguished military career, rising from private to major general. His service spanned several major conflicts, including Vietnam and the Gulf War. He held significant positions such as director of the Army budget and commanding general of the 1st Infantry Division (The Big Red One). Throughout his military career, Joe earned the respect and admiration of his peers and subordinates. Known for his integrity, leadership, and dedication to his troops, he became affectionately known as the “blue-collar general.” His leadership style was characterized by humility and a deep commitment to the well-being of those under his command.
After retiring from the Army, Joe transitioned to the corporate world, bringing his leadership skills and dedication to service with him. In 1994, he joined USAA, a financial services company dedicated to helping military personnel and their families. His military background made him a perfect fit for the organization, and he quickly rose through the ranks. In 2007, Joe Robles was appointed president and CEO of USAA. His leadership came at a critical time for the company and the nation. The financial crisis of 2008 was the longest and worst economic downturn since the Great Depression, and many financial institutions were struggling to survive. Under Joe’s guidance, USAA not only weathered the storm but thrived. Membership increased by 53%, revenue by 45%, products by 55%, and net worth by 68%. These impressive numbers were a testament to Joe’s strategic vision and steady leadership.
Joe’s tenure as CEO of USAA was marked by a series of remarkable achievements. During his leadership, USAA distributed $7.3 billion in dividends, distributions, bank rebates, and awards to its members and customers. This financial strength and commitment to its members set USAA apart as a leader in the industry. The company maintained its position as one of the few businesses to receive the highest financial strength ratings from Moody’s, A.M. Best, and Standard & Poor’s. These accolades were a reflection of Joe’s prudent management and unwavering focus on serving USAA’s members.
Beyond financial performance, Joe Robles made a significant impact on the culture and values of USAA. He led the company with a focus on service, both to its members and to the broader community. Joe was a strong advocate for employing veterans and military spouses, recognizing the unique skills and perspectives they brought to the workforce. Under his leadership, USAA became a leader in veteran employment, with over thirty percent of the company’s new hires in 2013 being veterans or spouses of veterans. This commitment to supporting military families earned USAA the highest honor from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Hiring Our Heroes program for Veteran and Military Spouse Employment.
Joe’s leadership extended beyond USAA’s financial and operational success. He was deeply committed to creating a positive work environment and ensuring high levels of employee satisfaction. USAA consistently ranked at the top of workplace and customer satisfaction surveys, a testament to the positive culture Joe cultivated within the organization. His ability to inspire and motivate his team was one of his greatest strengths, and it helped drive USAA to new heights.
Joe Robles’ impact extended far beyond the walls of USAA. He was actively involved in various community and philanthropic efforts, always seeking ways to give back and support those in need. He served as chairman of the CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Health System and the P16Plus Council of Greater Bexar County Foundation. Additionally, he was a board member of DTE Energy, the CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Children’s Hospital Foundation, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas San Antonio Branch. His contributions to these organizations were marked by the same dedication and commitment to excellence that defined his career at USAA.
Throughout his life, Joe received numerous accolades and honors for his contributions to the military, business, and community. In 2009, The Christian Science Monitor named him the “No. 1 Veteran in Business.” In 2011, he was inducted into the Horatio Alger Association, recognizing his journey from humble beginnings to significant achievements. These honors were a reflection of the respect and admiration Joe garnered throughout his life.
Joe Robles’ legacy is one of service, leadership, and unwavering dedication to others. His impact on USAA, the military, and his community is profound and enduring. He demonstrated that true leadership is not about power or authority but about service and the ability to inspire and uplift others. His example continues to influence those who knew him and those who will learn about him in the future.
As we reflect on Joe’s life, we remember a man who overcame significant challenges to achieve great success. He never forgot his roots or the values instilled in him by his family. His journey from a young boy in Puerto Rico to a major general in the U.S. Army and a successful CEO is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to service. His story serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us of the potential within each of us to make a positive impact on the world.
Joe Robles’ passing leaves a void that will be felt deeply by many. His family, friends, colleagues, and community mourn the loss of a remarkable individual whose contributions will be remembered for years to come. As we extend our condolences to his family, we also celebrate his life and the legacy he leaves behind.
The funeral arrangements and obituary for Joe Robles will be announced by his family at the appropriate time. In the meantime, we honor his memory by reflecting on the values he embodied and the impact he made. His story is a reminder that one person can make a difference and that true success is measured by the positive impact we have on others.
In conclusion, Josue “Joe” Robles Jr. was a remarkable leader, dedicated servant, and an inspiration to many. His life was marked by significant achievements and a commitment to serving others. As we remember his contributions to USAA, the military, and his community, we are reminded of the power of leadership rooted in service and the enduring impact of a life well-lived. Joe Robles’ legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations, ensuring that his spirit of service and dedication lives on.
