Robert C. Michels, age 78, a resident of Manitowoc, passed away on Saturday morning, September 11, 2021 at Boulder Community Health in Boulder, CO.
Bob was born on March 20, 1943 in Sheboygan. He was the son of the late Robert J. and Loraine (Rock) Michels. Bob was a graduate of Lincoln High School in Manitowoc with the class of 1962. He continued his education at DeVry Institute in Chicago, IL where he earned an Associate Degree in Electronics. Bob enlisted in the United States Marine Corps for the next four years and served two tours of active duty in Vietnam. He additionally served 23 years in the Marine Corps Reserve Unit in Green Bay. Bob attained the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4 and retired in 1992. He was employed by Wisconsin Bell/SBC/Ameritech and ATT as a Central Office Technician from 1970 to 2003. On August 4, 1984 he married Carol Rowntree.
Bob was a lifetime member of the Manitowoc Yacht Club and served as their Commodore in 1984. He also enjoyed being a member of the Manitowoc Chief’s, an active member at the Manitowoc YMCA, and also a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #731. Bob was a charter member of the Manitowoc County Harley Owners Group (HOG) Chapter. Bob and Carol traveled all over the United States on his Harley-Davidson motorcycle with Carol riding in the side car. He also enjoyed playing volleyball in the Manitowoc Recreation Department League for many years for Nick’s Bar and most recently with a team sponsored by Assist to Transport. When he no longer was able to play, Bob joined the players for social time.
Survivors include his wife Carol of 37 years, four children, Thomas (Jennifer) Bacon, Michelle Michels, Tracey Michels, and Robert A. Michels; two stepchildren, Julie (Gregg) Bartel and Steve (Kelly) Rowntree; grandfather to Keegan, Jessica, Lexis, and Austin Michels, Jaden and Justin Bacon and Lauren Bernhardt; Gpa to Jayna, Carly, Brynn, and Shaye Bartel; one brother, Mark (Josine) Michels; two sisters, Roxanne (Gary) Neuens and Mary Kay (Peter) Skubal; along with other relatives and friends.
A private service will be held at a later date with interment at Knollwood Cemetery.
The family would like to convey their special thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff of the Boulder Community Health for the care and compassion given Bob during his hospital stay.
Online condolences to the family may be sent to www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com
The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc, is assisting the family.
