Mr. Robert E. Campbell

Robert E. Campbell, 86, of Lexington, just short of his 87th birthday, died at his home in Lexington, MI after a courageous battle with cancer on September 25, 2013. Bob was born on October 3, 1926 to Earl and Louise Koenig Campbell in Battle Creek, MI. He was drafted before his high school graduation into military service in World War II serving in the Navy in the Pacific theater. A grateful recipient of the GI Bill, he attended Kalamazoo College, received a BA in education from Central Michigan University and an MA in counseling from University of Michigan. Bob had two careers. He was a teacher and a bi-vocational pastor of the Midland Community of Christ. He taught mostly history and English at Central Intermediate in Midland for 33 years. Not only did he enjoy his students, he was an advocate for teachers serving in education associations at the local, state and national levels. He served on the Board of Directors for both the Michigan and National Education Associations. In his role as pastor, he was a spiritual companion, mentor, counselor and devoted friend to many through the years. Most people would have known Bob as a brother, loving husband, father and friend. He was predeceased by brothers Harry, William and Art and sisters Edna Latta and Rosemary Carr (twin) and his wife of 47 years Elna Burke Campbell. Survivors include his wife of 18 years, Carol Cease Campbell and children Anne Campbell (Erick) Drake, Matthew (Donna) Hanes and Glenn David (Dana) Shaw. Grandchildren include Craig D., Allan and Laura, Craig W., Zoe, and family and friends who all called him “Uncle Bob”. He was a man of many talents and interests including making clocks, sailing on the Saginaw Bay, earning his solo pilot’s license, building a house, gardening and writing books of poetry. Not only did he visit all 50 states, he also enjoyed international travel where he walked on the Great Wall of China and visited villages inside the Arctic Circle, explored the Great Pyramids, walked in the steps of Jesus and the prophets in Israel and explored jungle archaeological sites of Central America. Bob will be missed but live on through those whose lives he touched. A Celebration of Robert’s Life will be held on Saturday, October 5th, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. at Community of Christ Church, 4920 Lapeer Road, Kimball Twp. A Committal Service will be held Friday, October 4th, 2013 at 3:00 p.m. at the Midland Cemetery. Cremation arrangements by Jowett Funeral Home, 1634 Lapeer Ave. at 17th Street, Port Huron. Memorial tributes may be made to Outreach International or Blue Water Hospice. To view obituary and share memories visit www.jowettfuneraldirectors.com

Mr. Robert E. Campbell

October 3, 1926 - September 25, 2013