Robert Wetzel Obituary

Captan Robert "Bob" Wetzel (U.S. Air Force), 78, of Columbia, SC, died on September 24, 2025. Born in Pittsburgh, PA, he was a son of the late Lewis Wetzel and the late Frances Wetzel. Bob's journey began in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he balanced his dedication to hard work with his pursuit of education, laboring at the J&L Steel Mill while earning his degree from Robert Morris University. It was during these formative college years that fate introduced him to Linda, the woman who would become his cherished companion for life. Their union blossomed into a partnership filled with love and purpose. Together, they welcomed their treasured daughter Jennifer, creating the foundation of a family that would remain Bob's greatest source of pride and joy. His commitment to service led him to the Air Force during his early career years. Bob's professional path eventually led him to Mack Trucks, where he devoted twenty-two years of loyal service. This career journey ultimately brought the family to Columbia, South Carolina-a move that proved to be one of life's perfect matches. Bob discovered appreciation for the southern sunshine. The southern climate enabled Bob's passion for gardening. His vegetable garden was a source of neighborhood admiration, particularly his legendary tomatoes that friends and family eagerly anticipated each season. Bob's tender care extended to his rose garden, where he cultivated beautiful blooms that he would cut fresh each day, arranging them as daily tokens of love for Linda. His appreciation for the outdoors manifested in many ways. Bob found great satisfaction in fishing expeditions with close friends, and his generous spirit shone when he hosted beloved family fish fries, sharing both his catch and his joy with those he loved most. Golf became another avenue for Bob's active lifestyle, providing him with both physical activity and meaningful connections with fellow enthusiasts of the game. Bob leaves behind a legacy defined by unwavering devotion as a husband, exceptional love as a father, and genuine warmth as a friend. His absence will be profoundly felt by all whose lives he touched with his kindness and care. Survivors include his wife, Linda Wetzel of Columbia, SC; daughter, Jennifer Wetzel of Charleston, SC; brother, Richard Wetzel (Carol, Amanda & Katherine) of Lansdale, PA; and a great aunt, Bette Wetzel of Zelienople, PA. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, October 12, 2025 at 1 o'clock at Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, 7600 Trenholm Road Ext., Columbia, SC 29223. A reception will follow the service for family and friends to gather. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that all donations be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, in loving memory of Mr. Robert Lewis Wetzel. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.