Nov 24, 2018

Robert Appel passed away Friday, November 9, 2018, after a short, bravely fought battle with cancer.

Robert was born in Peters Township and was raised by loving parents Patricia Elmer Appel and the late Ralph Lach Appel. He was the younger of two boys.

Surviving are his mother, Patricia Elmer Appel; wife Kathleen Harkins Appel; daughter Ashley Appel; 10 nieces, Marilee, Sara, Jennifer, Brenda, Chrissy, Teresa, Ally, Emily, Tippin and Heather; and 13 nephews, Richard, Daniel, Billy, Michael, David, Bill, JP, Evan, Kenny, Corbin, Paul, Matt and Shane.

Robert was preceded in death by his brother, Roy.

Robert was a 1972 graduate of Peters Township High School. He went on to graduate from a trade school, before working for Amtrak. Robert then worked in the automobile industry as a car salesman before his employment at Florida Auto Auction of Orlando in Ocoee, Fla., driving cars, coordinating and supervising vehicles and inventory, supervising his own department made up of 24 people, working with multiple car dealers and being an adviser to the Health and Safety Department for the personnel of that department. Robert was owner/operator of Central Florida Transport. He would help his clients get to and from medical appointments or physical therapy and help them through preoperative and postoperative procedures. For a few years, Robert had a business painting people’s houses. No matter the job, Robert took great pride in his work and always did his job with integrity and care.

Robert’s most rewarding job was as his family’s caretaker. Robert always made sure the house was clean and the pantry and refrigerator were always full of food. He would prepare home-cooked meals every night for his family and always took the time to make sure his family was happy and ensured they had everything they needed. Robert retired from his professional life in 2007 to care for his mother when she broke her neck. Robert loved being a husband, father and son. It was the light of his life being able to take care of the ones he loved most.

Visitation and a memorial service were held November 24 in Dobbs Funeral Home, Orlando, Fla.

In lieu of flowers, Bob requested people spend time with their children, take a walk on the beach with their loved ones and make a toast to enduring friendships lifelong and beyond.

Robert will be greatly missed by family and friends. May he rest in peace.