General Robert E. Via, Jr. U.S. Army Veterinary Corp
December 8, 1934 – January 30, 2026
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our father, Robert E. Via Jr., age 91, on January 30, 2026.
He was an only child born in Hinton, WV, in 1934, who grew up in Talcott, WV. He played basketball in high school, and graduated Valedictorian of his class. After high school, he graduated from Ohio State University with a degree in veterinary medicine. He began his career in Peterstown, WV, where he practiced veterinary medicine for three years.
He was drafted in 1962, and he entered the U.S. Army. He served for 29 years. He served in numerous U.S. locations, as well as Germany and Vietnam. During his military career, he was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General. He was assigned as Chief, U.S. Army Veterinary Corps. He also served as Assistant Surgeon General for Veterinary Services in the Office of the U.S. Army Surgeon General. He was the senior veterinarian in the Department of Defense.
After his retirement from the military, he became a Tax Specialist and was recognized by the Department of Treasury as an Enrolled Agent, serving in that role for many years.
His beloved wife, Elaine, preceded him in death a few years ago. He is survived by his three children, Cheryl, Kellan, and Robert. He is the proud grandpa of many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He has a large extended family, whom he loved and who love him very much.
People knew him as a kind, humble, and gracious man, who loved God. We were blessed to have him as a father.
The family will receive friends from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., on Monday, March 2, 2026, at Porter Loring Mortuary North in San Antonio, TX. Committal will be at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery at 1:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, and the ASPCA – American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
