Robert E Mitchell

POYNETTE -- Robert Earl “Bob” Mitchell, 88, of Poynette, passed away peacefully Jan. 29, 2014, at UW Hospital in Madison, surrounded by friends and family. He was born Aug. 30, 1925, in Milwaukee, to Ida Steuhr and Raymond E. Mitchell. Robert grew up in Oconto, where he attended Lincoln School, and graduated from Oconto High School in 1943. Robert served in the United States Navy until 1946, when he enrolled at Carroll College in Waukesha. He later attended Beloit College, where he received a bachelor of science degree in geology in 1951. Following college, he re-entered the military, enlisting in the United States Army in the 503rd Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Ky. Robert worked for eight years as a geologist for the state of Wisconsin, and seven years as a staff geologist for Soiltest, Inc. On Sept. 21, 1964, Robert was united in marriage to Hazel E. Powers (nee Hall). In the late 1960s, he and Hazel began developing property for a campground on Whalen’s Bay, at the east end of Lake Wisconsin. Mitchell’s Wunder Er’de Campground opened for business in 1972. Robert is survived by four step children, Susan C. (Richard) Destache, Van L. (Sharon) Powers, Barbara E. (Justin) McGee, and Steven J. (Doreen) Powers; 12 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. He is further survived by other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Hazel E. Powers and a step son, Martin L. Powers. Memorial Services will be held at noon Tuesday at Dekorra Lutheran Church, N3099 Smith Road, Poynette, with the Rev. Ryan Rouse presiding. In lieu of flowers, memorial cards and donations are greatly appreciated. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.