Robert "Bob" Starnes passed away on April 1, 2026. He was born on November 6, 1949, in Houston, Texas, to Elenora Nawara Starnes and John William Starnes. He grew up in the Needville area before moving to Pasadena, Texas.

An Eagle Scout, Bob demonstrated leadership and character from an early age. He entered Texas A&M University in the fall of 1970 as a member of the Corps of Cadets and earned his bachelor's degree in 1972.

In 1973, Bob began his service in the United States Army in Transportation Management. He achieved the rank of Major and served in the 82nd Airborne. His military career took him to Colón, Panama, where he traveled throughout South and Central America. He later commanded a transportation company at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. During his years of service, he also taught at Texas A&M Trigon while earning his MBA in 1982. Bob proudly served 10 years on active duty and an additional 10 years in the reserves.

In 1976, Bob married Robin Hodges, who had also graduated from Texas A&M. Together, they built a life centered on family, shared values, and a deep connection to the Aggie community.

Following his military career, Bob became a successful businessman, acquiring and expanding The Ontra Companies, focusing on the management and development of real estate investments from Austin, Texas. He remained actively involved with Texas A&M, supporting the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Mays Business School, and entrepreneurship and veteran’s programs, and served on numerous committees. He frequently attended A&M sports events throughout his life.

Bob had a lifelong love of the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman and spent much of his free time fishing in Port O'Connor and offshore with friends in Texas and Mexico. He was an accomplished hunter, alongside his dogs during bird hunts. His dogs were not merely companions but family, loyal partners in the field and constant presences in his life that he loved without reservation. Later in life, Bob became a member of the Tejas Vaqueros. He cherished the camaraderie and lifelong friendships he shared with so many dear friends across his business ventures, hobbies, and community.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elenora Nawara Starnes and John William Starnes. .He is survived by his wife of almost 50 years, Robin Hodges Starnes; his son, John Starnes and wife Kim Starnes; his grandsons, Ben and Connor Starnes; his sister, Karen Carter and husband Bob Carter; and his brother, Bill Starnes and wife Nancy Starnes.

To know Bob was to know a man of deep conviction, genuine generosity, and formidable will. He lived fully, loved through guidance rather than gesture, and never backed down from what was hard. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

"Home is the hunter, home from the hills and the sailor home from the sea." — Robert Louis Stevenson