Robert B. Witzel

Witzel, Robert B., retired USAF Lt Col, died Friday, February 18, 2011, in Wichita at the age of 90. Devoted to his family, friends, and country, he was a command pilot with over 7,000 flying hours and 100 combat missions during 32 years of service. A skillful pilot, his B-24 Liberator was hit over Berlin during the first daylight raid of the war on the city; he wrestled it 600 miles to safety in England, for which he was awarded his first Distinguished Flying Cross. Twenty-four years later, he earned his second for unarmed flights deep into hostile territory on classified missions. Mr. Witzel worked for the Kansas Department of SRS in Topeka after retirement from the Air Force, and remained involved in many community organizations and activities. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 38 years, Johnnie L. Witzel. He is survived by a son, Robert A. (and Michelle) Witzel of Spotsylvania, VA; a daughter, Susan M. (and Anthony) Colaluca of Wichita, and five grandchildren. A funeral mass will be held 9:30 a.m., Saturday, February 26 in St. Elizabeth Chapel at the Catholic Care Center. Inurnment will be at 1 p.m., Monday, February 28, Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Topeka. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established with Catholic Care Center, 6550 E. 45th St. N., Bel Aire, KS 67226. Arrangements by Downing & Lahey Mortuary West. Tributes may be sent to the family via www.dlwichita.com.