Obituary of Robert Hando, Col.

Robert (Bob) John Hando died on Wednesday, February 11, 2015 at his home in Herndon, Virginia, of complications of Alzheimer's disease. He was 70 years old. He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Helen (O'Neill) Hando; his daughter, Stephanie Hando; his son MAJ Benjamin Hando (USAF) and his wife Heidi. He has three grandchildren: Delia Hartman, Adele Hando, and Brooks Hando. Bob was born on July 21, 1944 to Stephanie Marko Hando and Michael Hando in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania. He grew up in Hatboro, Pennsylvania, graduating from Upper Moreland High School in 1962. After working for a few years he was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1965. Recognized for his strong leadership skills and natural engineering abilities, Bob was selected for Engineering Officer's Candidacy School and upon graduation was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in July of 1966 with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He served as a combat engineer with the First Infantry Division during two tours in Vietnam, 1966 - 67 and 1969 - 70. Following his tours in Vietnam Bob served with the Army Security Agency in Germany and then attended St. Martin's College and earned his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering in 1976. His Army career included assignments with the New England Corps of Engineers and the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe in Belgium. His last assignment in the U.S. Army was at the Pentagon, overseeing the $1.3 billion expansion of Fort Drum, 10th Mountain Division in New York. He was decorated with two Bronze Stars for his combat experiences in Vietnam as well as two Legions of Merit and other meritorious commendations throughout his military career. After retiring from 22 years of service in the U.S. Army, in 1987 Bob created his own engineering and consulting firm. He was self-employed before joining the University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute where he oversaw projects that still stand in Baltimore's Inner Harbor including the Columbus Center. During the last years of Bob's career he worked for two architectural firms in Washington, DC. He led the construction of the National Laboratory Center and Fire Research Lab for the ATF, which is currently the largest fire research laboratory in the world. He retired in 2007. Bob had a lively intellect. He enjoyed exploring diverse authors and convincing others to read them, too. From Dr. Seuss to Shakespeare, Will Durant to David McCullough, his reading spanned a variety of subjects and genres. He loved classical music, especially Beethoven, but also enjoyed artists like Willie Nelson, Buddy Holly and Charlie Haden. Bob loved to travel and enjoyed good food, good conversation and good wine. He was an avid photographer and woodworker. He liked to play golf and had a passion for nature and 'creatures' (as he referred to them). He was a long-time member of St. John Neumann Catholic Community in Reston, Virginia. Bob was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, as well as a friend to many. He had a generous spirit, and used to say he wanted "everyone to have everything." He lived that generosity and he made the world a better place. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bob's name to the Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org.