Robert Roger Serra

Colonel Robert R. Serra, U.S. Army (retired) passed away on Friday, August 23, 2024, in Ft. Myers, Fl at the age of 91. He is survived by the love of his life, Dolores M. Serra, his wife for over 70 years, and by five of the seven children they had together. These include, Cynthia Beatty (Steve) of Indianapolis, IN; Jeffrey Serra (Kirsten) of Austin, TX; JoAnna Kaelin (Rob) of Louisville, KY; David Serra (Peggy) of Crab Orchard, KY; and Mary Moore (Scott) of Cumming, GA; as well as a brother, Allen Serra, of Mill Rift, PA, 20 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild, and numerous nieces and nephews. 

The grandson of immigrants, Col. Serra was the first in his immediate and extended family to graduate college, receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in 1954 from Section Hall University, after which he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. He also received a Master of Science from Shippensburg University, and graduated from the Command & General Staff College, and the U.S. Army War College, two of the Army’s premier post-graduate schools. 

Col. Serra served his country honorably for 26 years, including tours in Korea and Vietnam. He was the recipient of many decorations during his service, including two awards of the Legion of Merit, four awards of the Bronze Star Medal, four awards of the Army Commendation Medal, two awards of the Air Medal, one Meritorious Service Medal, and numerous unit citations and awards for service in the Office and Secretary of Defense and in conflicts overseas. He was particularly proud of his time with the 4th Infantry Division in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. Upon retirement from the Army in 1980, Col. Serra held licenses as a real estate agent, broke, and independent free appraiser. 

Col. Serra was predeceased by a son, Robert R. Serra Jr., a daughter, Lizabeth A. Bytheway, a granddaughter, Crista A. Bytheway, a great-grandson, Bradyn Bytheway, his parents, R. Leo and Hazel Serra, and two siblings, Richard Serra and Eileen Risoli. Sol. Serra and his wife Dolores had made their home at Shell Point in Ft. Myers, FL since 2007. 

Funeral services will take place at 11am on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at Flanner Buchanan – Oaklawn Memorial Gardens (Conner Suite), 9700 Allisonville Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46250, with burial and military rites immediately after, where he will be interred next to his son. Anyone wishing to make a memorial donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Col. Serra’s favorite charity, may do so at www.stjude.org/donate.