Robert Eugene Michael

Fort Ashby, WV-

Robert "Bob" Eugene Michael, 82, of Fort Ashby, died March 14, 2026, at home.

Born September 21, 1943, in Delray, WV, he was the son of the late Eugene Lewis Michael and Arvetta Virginia (Combs) Michael.

He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Richard and Donald Michael, and two sisters, Peggy Shifflett and Judy Poling.

He attended Louisiana State University.

Bob retired from the U.S. Army as a Chief Warrant Officer 3. During his time in the service, he had three tours in Viet Nam. He had also served in Korea and Germany. He was an engineer and designed the first armored covered dozer. Bob also was a paratrooper. In Schuyler, VA, Bob set up a water perfusion system. In addition, he was a drug and alcohol specialist and was proud to serve in the military honor guard. During his years of service, Bob earned many medals, including the Army Commendation Medal and the Viet Nam Cross of Gallantry with Palm.

After retiring from the U.S. Army, Bob worked at Allegany Ballistics Laboratory for 10 years. He then spent several years working for Shockey & Sons in Winchester.

In his spare time, Bob loved to hunt and fish. While at home, he was able to participate in the Shepherd's Chapel Bible Study.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 57 years, Jo-Ann (Lewis) Michael; children, James Michael and wife Susan, their children, Morgan Bluebaugh and Sawyer Michael; Katrina Michael and son Jake Becker; Christina Yaider and husband Scott, and their children Bethany and Bruce Yaider; two step-sons, Gary Chaney and children Kathy Pultz, Sabrina Reith, Brittany Chaney; and Robert Chaney and wife Susan, and his children, Sierra Chaney, James Chaney, Christopher Chaney, and his stepchildren Kaylene, Ryan, and Eric Willis. He is also survived by two sisters, Patricia Haines and Sandra Saville, several grandchildren, great grandchildren, great grandson, nieces, and nephews.

A graveside service will be conducted at Branch Mountain Cemetery, Three Churches, WV, on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 1 PM, with Pastor Gary Cannon, officiating. Military honors will be accorded at the gravesite.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Fort Ashby Volunteer Fire Company, P.O. Box 1110, Fort Ashby, WV 26719.