July 14, 1953 – August 24, 2024
Robert B. Wieners, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and esteemed public servant, passed away on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at the age of 71. Bob, as he was known to his close friends, was born in Boston, Massachusetts on July 14, 1953, dedicated his life to the service of his country and community.
Bob graduated from Boston College High School in 1971 and then served on active duty with the United States Army as a military policeman from 1972 to 1975. Following discharge from the Army, he completed a Bachelor of Arts degree at Boston State College in 1978. Bob returned directly to military service after graduation by completing Officer Candidate School and receiving a commission as a second lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps.
Bob went on to serve more than 20 years as a Marine officer. His assignments included two deployments to the Mediterranean Sea. He was also deployed on two subsequent occasions to Okinawa, Japan and the Republic of South Korea. Other notable assignments included ceremonial and security support at the Marine Corps Barracks (8th and I) Washington, DC, served as an Assistant Professor of Naval Science at Boston University, Boston, MA; and two assignments on independent duty representing the Marine Corps in the civilian community and training members of the Marine Corps Reserve. His command assignments include leadership responsibilities for units ranging in size from 30 to 900 personnel.
In August of 1992, Bob attended the College of Naval Command and Staff where he earned a Master of Arts Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies. He made his way to Texas when assigned by the Marines to serve as the Inspector-Instructor, 1st Battalion, 23d Marines, 4th Marine Division, Houston, TX from July 1996 to May 1998. Bob and his wife Susan settled in Friendswood with their children, Robert Jr. (Bobby) and Marion. It was during this assignment in Houston that he participated in and was commended for his unit’s performance in the search for Laura Smither. He officially retired from active duty as a lieutenant colonel on September 1, 1998.
His military decorations included: the Meritorious Service Medal (with 2 Gold Stars for subsequent awards), the Navy Commendation Medal (with 1 Gold Star for a subsequent award) and the National Defense Service Medal. The meritorious service medals and navy commendation medals were awarded for superior leadership and operational excellence. He has also earned several certificates of commendation and unit awards.
Bob immediately sought to return to public service by attending the police academy at Alvin Community College, Alvin TX from August 1998 to December 1998. He began his service with the Friendswood Police Department where he held the rank of Patrolman for 2 ½ years. He would later be assigned to executive assistant duties in the Office of the Chief. Bob was further assigned to duties as the tactical team leader for the Friendswood Police Department and attended the Houston Police Department Basic Special Weapons and Tactics Course.
Bob was appointed as Chief of Police in October 2001. He was a 2005 graduate of the Law Enforcement Management Institute Leadership Command College and held a Master Peace Officer Certification. During his 22-year tenure as chief of police, he oversaw the growth of a police department that nearly doubled in size to meet the demands of growth in the community.
Chief Wieners was a dedicated leader, a strategic thinker, and a mentor to many. His commitment to service, both in the military and in his local community, left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Bob was also a devoted grandfather to his granddaughter, Camila and his grandson, Michael. They affectionately referred to him as GrandPuppa.
He is survived by his beloved family, including his wife of 45 years, Susan, children – son, Robert “Bobby” Wieners, Jr. and daughter-in-law, Elida Guajardo and daughter, Marion Wieners – and grandchildren, Camila and Michael, who will remember him for his unwavering dedication, profound integrity, and deep compassion. His legacy of service and leadership will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of working with him.
A visitation will be held at Mary Queen Catholic Church, 606 Cedarwood, Friendswood, on Thursday, August 29th from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. A funeral Mass, Military and Police honors will be held at Mary Queen Catholic Church on Friday, August 30th at 10:30 a.m.
In lieu of flower, the family requests that donations be made to the Friendswood Police Officers Association, the 50 Club of Galveston County, or a charity of choice that supports veterans and first responders. Chief Wieners’ life was a testament of courage, commitment, and service. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.
43 thoughts on “Robert Barrett Wieners”
“If the Army and the Navy ever look on Heaven’s scenes, they will find the streets are guarded by United States Marines”
Godspeed my Friend!
My deepest condolences for Bobs family and fellow officers he served. He was an awesome man and he had a servant heart. RIP BOB
He was a very good friend to me and my family. We had many spirted talks on all kinds of subject's. I meet him through a mutual friend Bernie Peterson, we both admired him a great deal.
He loyally served his County and our Community of Friendswood with everything he had.
I’ll miss him a great deal.
Trey Hill
I don't even know if people realize what a Honorable man he was long before he served as Friendswood Chief of police. I served with him at Marine Barracks Washington D.C. where he was my platoon commander. This picture is on the Whitehouse lawn where he is frint and center amongst his men. He served the Barracks as Commander in so many details in Washington DC. Arlington, Tomb of the Unknowns, Pentagon, Whitehouse, Tuesday evening parades at Iwo Memorial in Virginia, and Friday night parades at the Commadants house. Bob was a leader amongst men and served the Marine corps long after Washington DC. He served in conflicts, and wars with high regards for his men under his command. He was and American Hero that's should be treated with the utmost Respect. I'm grateful for the fact that I served under him, and had the privilege of knowing such an Honorable man. RIP Bob your legacy will never be forgotten.
We were so Blessed Bob chose to make Friendswood his home after retiring from the Marines. He has left a great legacy that will be remembered forever.
Knew him when he was a 1st Lieutenant….Tough but fair, honest, humorous, integrity, Semper Fi sir.
One of my earliest champions!! Bob Wieners will forever be a legend to me and I can honestly say that I would not have been a Marine, let alone a Marine General, without his early advocacy, guidance and mentorship at BUNROTC. He was HARD but fair; exacting but merciful, and just what a bunch of dopey college kids needed to begin to transform into Marine officers. Rest in peace and Semper Fi Bob. We have the watch!
Bob was a mentor to me and many of my peers during our college days. He helped make quite a few young men and women better Officers than they might have been.
A great man dedicated to his nation and community. So sorry to hear of Bob's passing- God bless and heal rhe hearts of his wife and family.
It was an honor and pleasure to work with Bob in Friendswood. When he joined Friendswood PD it was clear he would someday be a leader in the department and it didn’t take long. He was encouraged to apply for the vacant Chief’s position. During the selection process it was clear from the officers, the selection committee, and me as the City Manager who had responsibility for the appointment , that he should be the next Chief of Police in Friendswood. It was a decision I never ever regretted. He was a leader among leaders. He served his family, his Country and his city well. Well done Bob.
RIP Marine, Semper Fi
I’m so sorry for your loss.
I liked and admired Bob very much. He trained us to be better officers. He was a great mentor and leader.
I not only still do many of the things that Bob taught me, I also teach them to others.
His work has impacted thousands of people.
I remember his interaction with a young Boy Scout who attended city council meeting with me. When Daniel asked his Chief questions about his drug concerns, Bob took time to visit with him. He was a friend to my family as well as our Chief of Police. We were blessed. He had a servant heart. Prayers for his family.
We are so thankful for everything Chief Wieners did to implement the Shepherd Program for those with special needs and for everything else he did for the community. May he rest in peace with our Lord Jesus Christ.
Thank you for your service to Friendswood and the USA!!!
It is with a heavy heart I say "Semper Fi, Chief" The unimaginable times that brought you to Friendswood and the many years that followed; while you serving this community with the highest dedication and attention to duty, yet never letting go of your original mission to bring Laura's family justice. Thank you, seems so inadequate, but deeply meant. God's speed and we will miss you.
Bob Weiners always made himself
Available to our community no
Matter the time or the situation.
When a group of women from
Several Friendswood churches
Were visiting with folks at Autumn
Hills Nursing Home early in Bob’s
Tenure as police chief, a robbery
Occurred at the back door of the
Home. I called him later and asked
His advice about what to do. He
Immediately offered to go with me to the director of the nursing home
And advise him as to what steps
Needed to be taken to prevent this
From happening in the future. We
Went and Bob did a magnificent job
Of laying out what changes needed
To be made. We safely continued
Our singing of hymns, prayers and
Visiting with the residents for many
Years thereafter. Thank you, Bob.
Lynda Harris
Finest Marine officer I had the privilege to serve with. Gods speed STONEWALL 5.
Gods speed STONEWALL 5.
With deepest sympathy, he was a friend, neighbor and great Chief.
Sue, it’s been a long time since we were at 8th&I, but the many great memories are fresh and so alive. You and Bob will remain in my mind as a wonderful, beautiful couple. He loved you dearly, and in a way that set a shining example for those of us who were still single lieutenants at the time. Please know that Bob left an indelible mark on so many. I offer my heartfelt condolences to you and your family. God bless you all.
I always addressed Bob as Chief Wieners, as a token of respect for the man who was a capable and dedicated public servant. He was a credit to the community and a good friend for many years. Betty and I always enjoyed his company. He will be missed. But he fought the good fight, and he will be remembered.
Mr. Wieners, was such a nice gentleman, humble and kind, only good memories we have from him.
We are thankful for his service and all the things he did for the Friendswood community and for the USA.
Keeping the family in my thoughts and prayers.
Rest in peace Mr. Wieners.
Semper Fi Sir ! Fair winds and following seas !
Our community lost an icon, and I lost someone who was like a second father to me—Former Police Chief Wieners. While I can't find a photo of us together, that doesn’t lessen the permanent hole left in my heart. We spoke almost every few hours, discussing everything under the sun, but most importantly, we talked about life.
For those who knew him, you understand the greatness of the man, both in and out of uniform. Chief Wieners was more than just a public servant; he was funny, smart, and kind. But what many may not have seen was the deeply caring side that I was fortunate enough to witness. He cared immensely about this community and the people who call it home. His dedication went far beyond the badge.
When I reflect on my time on the council, the most rewarding part was the chance to grow close to Chief Wieners. He was more than just our police chief; he became a mentor and a best friend. His relentless pursuit of justice, exemplified in his work on the Laura Smither case, brought him to our city, and we were better for it.
I am a better person for having known Chief Wieners. His impact is forever engraved in the fabric of who I am. As we mourn this incredible loss, I pray for his family and ask that our community take a moment to appreciate all he did to shape Friendswood into the place we love today. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Hi Sue,
Ditto what Lonnie said about the loving husband example Bob set for all of us single lieutenants back in the day. Thank you, Bob. And thank you, Sue, for showing us all how a wife should love her man, and family. I am honored to have served with you two twice – there are no coincidences – God puts people in your life for a reason. Thank you, Father, for putting Bob and Sue into mine.
I'm so sorry, Sue, for your loss, and pray for your healing.
Thank you, Bob, for teaching me what a "beachball with lips" looks like. True wisdom! Seriously, we who served with you, in any capacity, learned a lot.
Semper Fidelis and God Bless,
Bruce
13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.
14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.
1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 KJV
Our deepest condolences to Susan, Bobby, Marion and family. Bob was without question, the best commanding officer I served for in the Marine Corps. Rose, the girls and I have many fond memories from our assignment at the Inspector Instructor Staff Det 4th Force Recon Company in Reno, NV. Rest in Peace my friend. Semper Fidelis.
I crossed paths with Bob earlier in his Marine Corps career. I was in Fox Company 2nd Battalion 3rd Marines with then Captain Weiners as our new CO.
My deepest condolences to Susan and the entire family for your loss.
Rest in peace Sir.
Sue, everything that Bruce Barnes wrote is right on the mark. Robin and I send our most sincere condolences!
S/F, Rudy & Robin
Hello Sue,
Robin and I are sending our sincerest condolences and prayers for all of your family. Our time together in Reno was a highlight of our journey.
When LtCol Wieners checked in as the I&I at 1/23, we knew things were about to change. He lead by example, was firm but fair, and made the Battalion one of the best in the USMCR. In fact, he laid the ground work for the Battalion's activation and a successful tour in Iraq four short years after his command. From him I learned: not to compromise; to set high standards and require that they be met (because that is how you bring Marines home); and to do it with humility, honor and love. He was a guiding force in my career as a Marine. Semper Fi Sir!
Sue, we’re sending our sincerest condolences and prayers to you, Bobby and Marion. Our tour in Reno was truly a highlight of our journey and it brings smiles to our faces when we think of your amazing family.
There are no words to express how much Chief Wieners meant to Alexis, me, and my entire family or his impact on our lives. Chief Wieners showed his abilities and gifts through his leadership of the Friendswood Police Department. He showed sincere compassion and commitment to the cases that crossed his path. Chief Wieners was integral in leading the team that located my daughter’s remains in a field near Angleton, Texas. Her case did not even originate in Brazoria County, but that didn’t matter to the Chief. He embraced her case and worked diligently until her remains were located, and she was returned to Alexis and me. Chief Wieners was a hero in our book. He was a friend. He was simply an amazing human being and will be sorely missed. Love, thoughts, and prayers go out to his family at home and his family at the police department.
Condolences to the Wieners Family. Bob was a role model to myself and so many others. Worked for and with him at Boston University where he helped so many NROTC Midshipman build and start off with the skills to learn and lead as officers. His life of service to others remains an inspiration. Thank you Sir. Semper Fi and God Bless, Mike
Keeping his family and friends in our thoughts and prayers. Chief Bob was a leader with a servant's heart and a wonderful neighbor. An honorable man whose service and friendship made a difference in the lives of many. We are grateful for his service.
Bob was one of the most impactful Marines I ever served with and worked for. He was the epitome of a Marine leader. He fiercely protected his people and treated everyone with "firmness, fairness, dignity and compassion". His leadership has impacted me and hundreds of others in multiple ways. I have considered him a mentor and friend for over 30 years. I will miss his humor, candor and grit.
May God bless and protect his family.
Sue, so sorry to hear about Bob. He was my first Company Commander during my first FMF tour with Fox 2/3. So many great memories.
I lost Mary six years ago to cancer. Trust me that there will be a day when the pain will subside and there will be nothing but happy thoughts and memories.
Again, please accept my deepest condolences.
Rich Simcock
Rich.Simcock@gmail.com
Our thoughts and prayers are with Susan and the family. We were deeply saddened to hear that Bob passed away. He was the kind of family man, leader, and friend that we all aspire to be. He made a difference in the lives of so many and will be truly missed. Semper Fi Bob … the streets of Heaven have never been more secure …
Like Ward and Bruce, I was privileged to know and serve with Bob in our beloved Marine Corps, but he was just a great American and we are all diminished by his passing. Bob was one of those fellow Marines you might not have seen in years, but he was quick to ask how you were doing and how your family was doing. He was professional and demanding but also a teacher and a scholar. If I had to choose someone to follow it would be him.
Sue and family are thoughts and prayers are with you in this most trying time.
Bob ran hard right to the finish, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." Timothy 4:7
My deepest condolences to the Wieners family. As many have already posted on here, Bob made an lasting impact on my life when I was in college. He was firm and certainly fair, motivated me to be my best, and instilled leadership values that have been with me throughout my life. The last time I saw him was in the summer of 1995 – I was a 1st Lieutenant in the middle of the desert on a Combined Arms Exercise, with a small team preparing an artillery position. It was so hot that I decided to just be in a t-shirt, and I kid you not out of the brush comes Lt Col Wieners in a humvee – I hadn't seen him in years, it was almost like a dream. He drives right up to me and is hysterically laughing about me being out of uniform, wondering if I forgot everything he taught me. We had a great laugh (and I did get back into uniform!) and I remember as he drove away how much I appreciated everything he did for me. And I still do.
Sue, Larry and I send our sincere condolences to you and your family upon hearing of Bob's passing. Both you and Bob had such an impact upon Larry and myself as we spent time at 8th and I. Larry and I were able to look at your example of a committed marriage and sucessful life in the Marine Corps as we navigated our dating life and moved into marriage. Bob, of course ,was a great leader and teacher to Larry and helped to shape him into the Marine and man he would become in life. Our prayers are with you for comfort and support during this time of loss. Praying for the peace that passes all understanding as you move forward in your time of grief.
We were stationed together at 8th & I. He was the greatest Officer that any Marine would pray to have served with. He is the Marine you want to emulate. He had my most respect and it was a honor to have served with him. Semper Fi and God Bless him and his family.
It was an honor to serve beside this good man in both 2nd Battalion, 8th Marines as well as 1st Battalion, 23rd Marines. Semper Fidelis