Col. Robert C. Effinger III

Colonel Robert Craig Effinger III, 68, passed away on Sunday, August 9, 2026.

He was born on May 26, 1958, in Anniston, Alabama, a son of the late Robert Craig, Jr. and Mary Glover Stevens Effinger.

He was a graduate of Auburn University, where he received his bachelor’s degree in aviation management. From there, he went on to graduate from Central Michigan University and the U.S. Army War College where he double-mastered in science and strategic studies, respectively.

He had over 3300 fixed and rotary-wing hours, held an Airline Transport Pilot rating, was Maintenance Test Pilot Certified, and also served as an Army Parachutist. He held awards and decorations commensurate with over forty-seven years of U.S. Army service, both stateside and abroad.

His last position was as the Chief of Staff (DAC) for the U.S. Army’s Ground Vehicle Systems Center in Warren, MI.

He is survived by his wife, Elaine Frances Effinger; his children, Daphne Katherine Effinger-Bryan and her husband, Robbie Bryan, and John Robert Effinger; his stepdaughter; Maddie Mollie Preston-Wantz and her husband, Jack Wantz; a sister, Elizabeth Anne Bryan and her husband, Mike Bryan; and his faithful canine companion, Marcus.

A graveside service with full military honors being rendered, will be conducted at 2:00 PM on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the Effinger Mausoleum in Thornrose Cemetery in Staunton, VA with the Reverend William “AJ” Heine officiating.