Robert Effinger, Jr.

Robert Temple Effinger, Jr., Bob , a native Texan, was born in San Antonio, Texas on December 22, 1912 to Robert Temple Effinger Sr. and Faye Hall. His family transferred to Houston, Texas where Bob attended Hamilton Jr. High and Reagan High School. He worked nights at the Houston Public Library and excelled as an athlete. He worked his way through South Texas School of Law, Rice University and Texas A&M University. He worked for the Harris County Navigation District Port of Houston from 1933-43 where he was the purchasing agent. In 1943 he was employed as chief accountant for Reed Rollar Bit Co. in the war plant and after World War II stayed on with the company until 1968 when he retired as chief financial officer. He was associated with the following: president of Texas Insurance Buyers Association, Houston; president and trainer of South Texas Obedience Club, Houston; Lone Star Retriever Club, Houston; member, Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity; member of Brenham Tax Board of Equalization; past president of Chappell Hill Historical Society; member of Beef Breeders Association of Texas; member of Chappell Hill United Methodist Church; friend of First Baptist Church of Chappell Hill; treasurer, Chappell Hill Masonic Cemetery Association; charter member of Chappell Hill Chamber of Commerce. He was active in all sports, track, tennis, basketball, golf, baseball and boxing. While attending Hamilton Junior High, he set the record for Houston junior high schools in the 100-yard dash under 11 seconds. His membership on the Reagan High School baseball team became the basis for a lifelong hobby that would later bring him fame in sports circles. He also won three Houston City Championships in Bowling and the Houston City Horseshoe Pitching Championship. In the 60s his interest turned to Golden Retriever dogs. Rocky King Rip of Post Oak became the best known Golden Retriever in the United States. In the late 60s he purchased the 300-acre Cedar Creek Ranch in his beloved Chappell Hill. His mother attended Chappell Hill Female College. Bob and his family have sat in the very same pews his mother sat in while attending the Chappell Hill United Methodist Church. He served as a deacon for many years, and one of the church s stained glass windows is in memory of his mother. Upon retirement Bob started a registered Hereford cattle operation. He enjoyed the simple things in life, being with his family, friends and small town life. He was happiest on his porch swing with his wife while looking out over the land and cattle. Bob is survived by his wife of 66 years, Ramona Lantz Effinger; his beloved children, daughters, Temple Smith and husband Clifford, Karen Nodine and husband Rodney and son, Robert Temple Effinger, III and wife Marcia. His precious grandchildren, who fondly knew him as PaPaw and Poppy are Mark E. Smith, Peter F. Maroney III, Robert Temple Effinger IV, William Lantz Effinger, and the only granddaughter, Ramona Britt and husband Tim. He is also survived by his sister, Dorothy Jean Gartner of Houston; brother, Harvey H. Effinger of Katy; and many nieces, nephews and wonderful friends. Friends may call at Memorial Oaks Chapel where the family will be present for visitation Friday, Feb. 28 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. A graveside service will be held at 1:15 p.m. Saturday, March 1 at Chappell Hill Masonic Cemetery in Chappell Hill. A memorial service will be conducted at Chappell Hill United Methodist Church on Saturday, March 1 at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Kathy Harrell and Rev. David Beckworth officiating. Pallbearers will be Mark E. Smith, Peter F. Maroney, III, Robert Temple Effinger, IV, William Lantz Effinger, Ramona Britt and Wayne Hesterly. Honorary pallbearers will be Dr. Howard Bauer, O.E. Buenger, Claude Martin and Andy, his fishing buddy. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 W. Main St., in Brenham.