CPO Robert William Steffy, USN Ret.

CPO Robert William Steffy, US Navy Ret., 65, of North Charleston, SC, husband of Thelma Steffy, died Tuesday, May 15, 2012, in the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center.

Born December 1, 1946 in Chicago, IL; he was the son of Rhodell Clyde Steffy and Elsie Emaline Wining Steffy. In 1967 Robert joined the US Navy and served in Vietnam. He was a POW when he and a fellow sailor broke free and escaped to a P.T. boat. Unfortunately his friend was injured and did not survive. Mr. Steffy received a Purple Heart for his actions. After the War he left the Navy and went to work as an Armed Security Guard at the Charleston Naval Base. Using his G.I. bill he earned his associate degree in law enforcement and was employed by NCIA. He re-enlisted in the Navy and served in the Gulf War retiring in 1998 with honors. He enjoyed his 11 year career with Embassy Suites – North Charleston Convention Center.

Mr. Steffy is survived by his wife of 41years, Thelma Steffy; three daughters: Sandra Holsopple (Shaun) of North Charleston, Tammy Sandmire of Beloit, WI and Kristy Taylor (Jimmie) of Dothan, AL; grandchildren: Slade Sandmire, Damon Holt and Maya Holsopple.

Our family is graciously blessed by his honorable services for the country, community, love for his family and God.

The funeral service with military honors will be held at J. HENRY STUHR, INC., NORTHWOODS CHAPEL, 2180 Greenridge Road, Friday, May 18, 2012 at 6:00 pm. The family will receive friends in Stuhr's Northwoods Chapel Friday between 5:00 and 6:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Charleston Animal Society, 2455 Remount Road, North Charleston, SC 29406.