Robert Marion Michael

Robert Marion Michael, known to family and friends as Bob, passed away peacefully at home on September 25, 2026, following a long illness, with his wife, Patricia (Patti), and son Bryan by his side. Bob was 83 years old.

Bob was born on October 9, 1942, in Casper, Wyoming, to Merle D Michael and Leah G. (Bailey) Michael. He was the second of four sons. He was raised in Takoma Park, Maryland, and graduated from Walter Johnson High School in Bethesda, Maryland, in 1960. Immediately after graduation, he joined the United States Navy, proudly serving his country for eight years, from 1960 to 1968, with assignments in Maryland, Hawaii, and Washington, D.C.

During his eight years of service in the United States Navy, Bob married Andrea L. Barnhart, and together they had three children. Following his military service, Bob pursued a career in dental technology. His extensive training in dental prosthetics led him to establish his own dental laboratory business, eventually operating three laboratories—two in Maryland and one in Tennessee.

Bob married Patricia A. Swilley in 1976 in Johnson City, Tennessee, and together they had one son. Together, they owned and operated B.P. Dental Lab for 18 years. Bob later graduated from Tusculum University with a Bachelor of Science degree

Bob, Patti, and their son Bryan eventually moved to Westhampton, New Jersey, where Bob became the lead dental technician at Dentsply/Ceramco. His work took him around the world, including China, Russia, Colombia, Australia, and many destinations in between. Bob was proud to hold his National Board of Certification in Dental Technology credentials, including his Master Dental Technician (MDT) and Certified Dental Technician (CDT) certificates, reflecting more than 60 years of dedication to his profession. Bob was very proud to own two patents both for dental products.

In 2008, Bob and Patti semi-retired to Cedaredge, Colorado, where they purchased a local business that they owned and operated for 16 years. Bob was an active member of the Surface Creek Lions Club and a former member of the Cedaredge Rotary Club. He also served his community through eight years on the planning commission and more than two years as a town trustee.

Bob was a quiet, perfectionist who enjoyed playing golf, traveling, and spending time with his beloved dog, Digit. He took pride in his career, military service, and community involvement and will be remembered by those who knew and loved him.

Bob is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Patti; his sons, Robert S. Michael (Anne) of Cedaredge, Colorado, and Bryan L. Michael (Jenna) of Mullica Hill, New Jersey; his daughters, Laura K. Michael (Kim) of Bowling Green, Kentucky, and Jennifer L. Blizzard (Mike) of Westminster, Maryland; and his brother, Gerald L. Michael of Cedaredge, Colorado. He was blessed with eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Merle D. and Leah G. Michael, and two of his brothers, William L. Michael and James D. Michael.

In keeping with Bob’s wishes, no formal service will be held. Next summer, his family plans to arrange for the interment of his stones in Ozawkie, Kansas, Cemetery, beside his brothers.

Patti and the family wish to express their sincere gratitude to the Veterans Administration’s Caregiver Support Program, Visiting Angels, and Hope West for their compassion, support, and care during Bob’s illness.

Bob will be forever loved and remembered by his family and all those whose lives he touched.