Robert John Michels

Robert John Michels, 43, died on March 10, 2026 at his home in Maine. Rob was born on December 2nd, 1982 to parents John R. Michels and Nancy H. Michels. He grew up in Londonderry, New Hampshire and graduated from Londonderry High School in 2001. At 19, Rob moved to Breckenridge, Colorado to pursue his love of snowboarding. He earned an Associates degree from Colorado Mountain College, but it was through friends that he developed his green thumb. Well-versed in tree trimming, he started his first company, Breck Tree, while in Colorado. He brought his knowledge & business acumen back to New England in 2016 and remained a horticulture specialist until his death.

Rob's father ignited his passion for the outdoors at a young age. They hiked regularly, occasionally descending the wrong side of the mountain, and in springtime you could find them off-roading in the family Jeep, mudded and high-sided on a rock. These were hobbies that would stick with Rob into his adult years. During his summers, Rob preferred to be on Lake Winnipesaukee, merrymaking on Cow Island with friends and family and puttering around the lake late into the night. Snowboarding, however, was Rob's winter paradise. Once the snow began to fall, you could find him on the mountain chasing fresh tracks on a powder day. Rob found joy and solace playing in the woods in all seasons.

Rob had a penchant for tinkering. From early childhood he was constantly fixing or repairing something, whether it be a remote control car, water pump, or his red 1974 Jeep CJ-5. He also bought and sold used cars (and snowmobiles, 4-wheelers, dirtbikes, boats and jet skis) to pass the time. He was looking for a good deal at every turn.

Rob often arrived late, but made up for it with expensive champagne in hand. His cellphone screen was always cracked and often waterlogged. There was always a good story to tell.

He was an instigator, a fixer, a self-starter, and non-conformist. He gave freely, loved deeply, and lived tirelessly. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Rob is survived by his wife Kathryn "Katie" Michels, who he met on April 20, 2011. They married barefoot on a beach ten years later. They have three adopted cats: Stella, Taz Man, and Nico. Given more time, they surely would have adopted more. He is also survived by his mother Nancy H. Michels and siblings Christine A. Hanc and Anne E. Michels. He is predeceased by his father, John R. Michels. Countless other family members and friends will mourn Rob's absence. His nieces and nephews will be told of his legend and mischief at age-appropriate intervals.

A celebration of life will be held at Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 290 Mammoth Rd., Londonderry on Saturday, March 21st from 2:00 - 4:00pm. Those who can, will be invited to drink a Heineken in Rob's honor.