Robert G. Witchel

“My hope and prayer is that everyone knows and loves our country for what she really is and what she stands for.” - John Wayne

Lives are hard to sum up in just a few words. How does a person condense 70 years of life into a few paragraphs? My daddy believed in God, this country, family, friends, and community. He lived his life building a legacy that would outlive him. Not just in his children, but in the hearts and minds of those he encountered. Dad was never a stranger to hard work, Lord knows he grabbed that bull by the horns as soon as he could. He owned his first home at 18, a feat few can boast. He took his role as big brother seriously and if Kevin were here to testify, he’d say probably too seriously. But my father chose to be a fatherly figure to those who didn’t have one, lost one or in moments just needed one. He managed groups of over hundreds in every store he worked. For 45 years, he steered business, careers and futures.

Dad believed in earning a living and saving for the future. All these years later, I heard one of my friends discuss a financial strategy with his daughters, like he’d heard my dad do with me 27 years ago. Lifetimes cannot be measured in years, but in the hearts of those left behind. My father was a son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, manager and friend. Our small community has leaned on each other my whole life. From 4th of July shenanigans, to weddings, and lately saying goodbye to those we love. But, unlike most communities I don’t doubt “the neighbors” are looking out for each other, helping with needs before even asked, and praying for the next generation.

He is survived by his wife, Phyllis; daughters Kimberly Kelly and Krissy Robideau; grandchildren Hailee Witchel, Jaden Grubb, Jesse Robideau and Azlyn Witchel; aunt Suzie McCullough. He was proceeded in death by his parents Roy Witchel and June and John Rossi; brothers Darren and Kevin Witchel; Uncles Darrel and Larry McCullough and Aunt Adie McCullough.

Memorial will be held at the Witchel residence Saturday, May 30th at noon.