Robert Mussell

Robert Paul Mussell, 83, of Merrill, passed away Saturday, September 25, 2010 at Ministry Good Samaritan Health Center, Merrill. Bob was born on April 16, 1927 in the Town of Schley to the late Paul & Emma (Mielke) Mussell Sr. He married LaVerne Licht July 10, 1948 in Hartford , Wisconsin . She survives.

Bob attended Sunrise School in Lincoln County . After his schooling he worked at the shipyards in Sturgeon Bay . Bob then joined the U.S. Army in 1945 and served in the occupation forces in Germany . He returned to the states in 1946 and served in the National Guard for 5 years being discharged with the rank of Sergeant. Bob worked in industrial hydraulics for many years. He was employed at Drott Corporation in Wausau as the Supervisor of Research & Development. Bob later owned and operated Tomahawk Tire Center in Tomahawk from 1979 - 1990. He was a member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church and the American Legion. Bob was active in the National Ski Patrol serving at various ski hills including Rib Mountain Ski Hill and Camp 10. He was a private pilot who enjoyed flying very much. Among other activities, Bob enjoyed skiing, fishing, hunting, curling and was an avid football fan – especially of the Packers. He will be remembered for his special relationship with animals, his most cherished being with his faithful dog Sandi.

Survivors include his wife: LaVerne Mussell, Merrill; one daughter: Barbara (Dennis) Hopfensperger, Hartford, WI; two sons: Gary (Deb Shipway) Mussell, Warrenville, IL and Steve (Nicole) Mussell, Appleton, WI; five grandchildren: Kristine, James, Ashley, Cody and Ryan; one great-granddaughter: Cora; one brother: Paul (Phyllis) Mussell, Merrill; three sister-in-laws: Marion Mussell, Merrill, Esther Licht and Diane Licht, both of Milwaukee, WI; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Alfred, and one sister, Augusta.

A Memorial Service will be held 11:00 AM Friday, October 1, 2010 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. Father Mike McLain will officiate. Friends may call from 10:00 AM until the time of service, also at the church. Entombment will follow at Merrill Memorial Park . Military honors will be performed by local VFW Post #1638. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Lincoln County Humane Society or St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. Waid Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com .