Robert Michael Mitchell

It is with great sadness that we announce our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Robert Michael Mitchell, departed this life at the age of eighty on March 27th, 2023. He was brilliant, funny, and lived a full life touching many, many people with his generosity, wisdom and loving spirit.

Bob met Diana, his wife of 54 years, when they were both young teachers at Troy High School. Together, they found a passion for traveling, which took them throughout the U.S. and Europe and to far-flung places like Tanzania, Egypt, the Amazon River and Iceland.

In his work life as an educator in Okemos Public Schools and as a manager of his own business, Aerotech Fan and Equipment, he was known for his capacity to support and empower people.

“Life Is Good” was his favorite t-shirt brand, as well as his life philosophy. His compassion for people was fueled by his belief that every person is doing the best they can in the moment, so he never took anything personally. He was amazingly non-judgmental and compassionate.

Apart from Diana, Bob is survived by his children, Cammie (Mark) Jones, Chris (Laynie) Mitchell, Annie (Curtis) Miller, and his sisters, Sue Carter, and Nora (Rolf) Mitchell. He also leaves behind his five grandchildren Sam, Jack, Lucy, Will, and Lukas, who will dearly miss their beloved “Bobo.” He took great pride in the fact that each of his three children are happy in their life and work and genuinely enjoy being together.

Visitation with the family will be Saturday, April 1st from 1:00pm to 4:00pm at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home (1730 East Grand River, East Lansing). In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the non-profit, Short Moments, whose mission is to benefit all through teaching about our essential loving nature. Donations can be mailed to Short Moments, P.O. Box 993, Mill Valley, CA 94942 or via this PayPal link. https://www.paypal.com/webapps/shoppingcart?flowlogging_id=0b3a530025261&mfid=1680098192584_0b3a530025261#/checkout/openButton