H. Robert Mitchell, lifelong resident of Summit Township, passed away on December 19, 2025. Robert was 78 years old born to Clair and Mary Mitchell on July 10th. Robert fell in love with his wife Janet (Witman) Mitchell when they were in the same wedding party — she caught the bouquet; he caught the garter –driving from Erie to Pittsburgh for dates. Bob and Janet were happily married for 50 years. He was a girl dad to three daughters, gaining three sons and two granddaughters. Bob owned HR Mitchell Landscaping and Nursery and was retired as Manager of Summit Township Water Authority. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, growing plants, being outside and participating in the Lions Club as a past district governor.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws Dwight and Naomi Witman, and his Uncle George Pellow. He is survived by his wife, Janet, three daughters, Georgia (John) Del Freo, Amanda (Richard) Trenn and Suanna (Eric) McGuire, and granddaughters Rebecca and Emily McGuire. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Phyllis (Bill) Neral, two nieces and their families.
Viewing hours will be held at Van Matre Funeral Home in Waterford on Sunday, December 28th from 2 to 6 pm with a Lions Club service at 2:30. The funeral will be on Monday, December 29th at 10:00 am with burial following at Mitchell Cemetery in Cambridge Springs.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Summit Lions Club, 1230 Townhall Rd West, Erie 16509, to help continue the projects that were dear to Robert’s heart. Condolences at www.vanmatrefuneralhome.com.
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Karen Malick says
December 23, 2025 at 4:57 pmMitchell Family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. I remember your dad as being such a nice man and he raised three amazing daughters. Mrs. Mitchell, I am so sorry for your loss – what a wonderful story to have met in a wedding. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Gloria Schmalz says
December 24, 2025 at 10:23 amJanet and family,
Bob was a great man and a great Lion. He will be soooo missed by all.
God Bless You and you family.
Dianne Presogna says
December 28, 2025 at 11:22 amGeorgia and Amanda, I was so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. You, Amanda, your Mom and your family loss is so sad. You have my condolences and my prayers.