Robert Powell Keplinger, 78, of Hagerstown, MD, passed away on Friday, October 29, 2021, at Meritus Medical Center. Despite being fully vaccinated, he lost a 23-day battle with Covid pneumonia. He was surrounded by the love and voices of his family by way of an online video call at the time of his death.

Born October 6, 1943 in Hagerstown, MD, he was the son of the late Paul L. Keplinger, Sr. and Thelma Anna (Powell) Keplinger.

Robert served in the 101st Airborne Division of the US Army, Screaming Eagles. He received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, Air Medal, and the Purple Heart.

Bob was a graduate of South Hagerstown High School and enjoyed many picnics and reunions with the class of 1961. He graduated from Hagerstown Junior College and attended University of Maryland, College Park. He worked at the A&P, Olan Mills, several entrepreneurial endeavors, and was a retired Maryland correctional officer.

He was a beloved member of Ebenezer United Brethren Church in Greencastle, PA, and a regular member of the Tuesday morning Bible study. He arranged weekly meetings of his Christian Men's breakfast group.

Robert was also committed to playing Hearts, and other card games, for lunch with friends each week.

Robert is survived by his brother, Paul L. Keplinger, Jr. (Hagerstown); his sisters, Janet L. Cyzyk (Baldwin, MD), Alice J. Kinch (Russ, Winnsboro, SC), and Mary Lou Keplinger (Vandalia, OH); his many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and godsons; and a few lifelong special friends who felt like family.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Rev. Beverly A. Bumbaugh.

Cremation arrangements were made by Minnich Funeral Home. Per Robert's wishes, the family will inter Robert's ashes at Rocky Gap Veterans Cemetery with full military honors in the Spring.

Due to Covid safety concerns, the family hopes to host a Celebration of Life on a date yet to be determined.