Robert (Bob) Willis Bender, age 73, of 2317 Stephanie Lane, Augusta, GA passed away September 15, at the VA Medical Center after an extended illness. He was born on July 16, 1943 in Richmond, California to Lt. Col. Charles Robert and Marjorie Willis Bender. He was raised mainly in Rolla, MO. He enlisted in the US Army in 1962, completing Infantry Basic School, Airborne Training, and Officer Candidate School before serving as a Lieutenant in Viet Nam in 1967 with the 25th Infantry Division as a Platoon Leader. Upon his honorable discharge he enrolled in the University of Cincinnati and earned an Associate’s Degree. Bob had difficulty adjusting to civilian life after Viet Nam and suffered from what is now known as Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). He was, however, a devoted brother to his younger sister, Marjorie, with whom he resided almost his entire adult life. He enjoyed growing potted vegetables each summer. He adored his dogs and took in many strays over the years. He loved westerns and John Wayne movies and he was a voracious reader of military history. He leaves behind thousands of pages of his own writings, stories, and plays. Bob was a familiar face for decades at the VA Medical Center in Augusta where he was always treated with respect by the staff and received excellent care. Bob Bender is survived by his brother, Thomas R. Bender and his wife, Ann, of Hartwell and his uncle, Richard B. Bender of Hot Springs Village, AR. Bob was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Marjorie W. Bender. The family is grateful for the friendship and assistance provided to Bob over the years by his long time neighbors, Frank and Marian Walker and Bob’s dear friend, Martha White of Deering, GA. After cremation, Bob’s ashes will be buried at the Nancy Hart Memorial Park. There will be no services, per Bob’s instructions. Coile-Hall-Spagnoli Funeral Home will be in charge. Online condolences may be sent to family by visiting www.chsfuneralhome.com