Robert Bullard Mitchell, beloved father, grandfather, brother and cherished member of the community, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was 81 years old. Born on February 11, 1943 in Boston, son of Robert Amos Mitchell and Louise Appleton Bullard. Bob attended Fairhaven High School Class of 1961. After High School, Bob attended Lister Petter Factory School in Dursley, England. After College, he returned to his father’s engine shop RA Mitchell Co. eventually taking over the business, and growing it to be one of the most respected engine and generator companies in the Industry. Bob was fiercely protective of the New Bedford Fishing Fleet.
Bob lived a life marked by kindness, generosity, and devotion to his family. He married Ann Elizabeth (Martin) Mitchell in 1970, with whom he shared a beautiful home in Fairhaven, MA. Together they raised three daughters and had a special bond and unwavering friendship.
As a father, Bob was a pillar of strength and wisdom to his three daughters, Heather, Jennifer, and Karen. He imparted invaluable lessons of love, resilience, and integrity, shaping their lives with his unwavering guidance and unconditional love. Bob was also a cherished brother to Charles Gile Mitchell of Fairhaven, with whom he shared a bond forged through a lifetime of shared experiences, laughter, and mutual support. Charlie saw Bob as the best brother ever and over time filled roles as a protector, inspiration, a best friend, and an accomplished person greatly to be admired.
But perhaps one of Bob’s greatest joys in life was found in his role as a grandfather. He was adored by his seven grandchildren, Reilly, Andrew, Alexa, Hayden, Connor, Peter, and Kaylei. He cherished every moment spent with them, creating memories that will be treasured for generations to come.
Bob was a dedicated partner to his very special friend Jean Carolyn Pegg of Freetown, MA for the last several years.
Bob was a respected member of the community and would often be seen having breakfast, lunch and dinner at many local restaurants. He was a member of multiple local organizations and clubs that supported the Community.
He is also survived by Heather’s Husband Ralph Whitehouse of Plymouth, Jennifer’s former Husband Randy DeMello of Mattapoisett and Karen’s Husband Peter Joseph of Fairhaven. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and treasured cousins.
Bob would not have had all the success he has had without the amazing, dedicated employees at RA Mitchell Co. He truly thought of all his employees as family. We would also like to thank his very dedicated Care team over the last year that watched over him so lovingly.
His Visiting Hours will be held on Thursday, May 30, 2024 from 4-8 PM at Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home For Funerals, 50 County Rd. (Rt. 6), Mattapoisett. His Funeral Service will be held on Friday, May 31st at 11 AM in the Unitarian Memorial Church, 102 Green St., Fairhaven. In lieu of flowers donations to the Robert Mitchell Scholarship Fund c/o Fairhaven Rotary Club, P.O. Box 261 Fairhaven, MA 02719. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
