Robert L. Birkel, 70, of Gregorytown, passed away early Sunday morning, December 13, 2009 at home, surrounded by his family.

Bob was born on August 28, 1939 in Jamaica, Queens, the son of the late Leonard and Patricia (Heitzmann) Birkel. In 1958 he married the former Carol Cook at Pascoe WS. He proudly served his country in the US Navy. He was employed by Marco C. Smith as a Landscape Foreman.

Bob and Carol moved to Gregorytown in 1988, taking a hunting camp and making it a home. He enjoyed and took great pride building their home. He enjoyed woodworking and gardening. He also enjoyed snowmobiling and riding his ATV.

He is survived by his loving family, his wife, Carol, his sons, Robert (Amy) Birkel Jr., Selden; John (JoAnn) Birkel, Spring Hill, FL; and Kevin (Heidi) Birkel, Nanticoke, PA; his beloved grandchildren, Jennifer, Lauren, Ashley, Jonathan and Nicholas; his sister, Patricia (Robert) West, Centereach, LI; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Services will be held privately at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions in Bob's memory may be made to Downsville Fire Dept. and EMS. Main St., Downsville, 13755.