Lewis ”bob” R. Fitch

Lewis R. “Bob” Fitch, age 78, of New Philadelphia died unexpectedly Friday evening December 23, 2011 in Affinity Medical Center at Massillon. A son of the late Merrell and Eva (Shrimplin) Fitch, Bob was born at Coshocton, Ohio on October 9, 1933. Following graduation from Roscoe Village School, Bob enlisted into the United States Army. While in the service he was sent to signal school and trained in micro-wave repair. He married the former Barbara J. Owens on August 11, 1956 and together the couple reared a son and daughter. The couple shared in 40 years of marriage prior to Barbara’s death on May 25, 1997.Bob’s Army training would serve him well as he began a lengthy career with the local cable company. His knowledge and experience led him to be well respected among his co-workers and bosses alike. Having started from the bottom, he knew what it was like, and never backed away from an opportunity to teach others about the industry. He was eventually appointed Regional General Manager and retired from Cox Communications on January 1, 1998.Never one to sit still, Bob was an avid hunter, fisher, bowler and golfer. He also enjoyed working with his hands and could repair just about any broken device. Bob enjoyed the company of his family and friends and enjoyed sharing stories with those around him at the various local clubs in which he held membership. One of the most important aspects to his life were his grandchildren; ever mindful of their future and continuously encouraging them to succeed in life.Among his friends, He was known and loved for his independent, outgoing, and ornery personality which will also be missed by his family which includes a daughter, Lynn (Doug) Immel of New Philadelphia and Robert A. (Jo) Fitch of Dover; a special friend and companion, Marilyn Duliere of Albuquerque, New Mexico and eight grandchildren, Gabrielle and Dravin Immel, Bryar, Hunter, Jaymie, and Bailey Fitch and Madisen and Sydney Milligan.In addition to his parents and wife, Bob was preceded in death by an infant sister.The family will receive guests on Wednesday, December 28, 2011 from 4:00 -7:00 PM in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia. The Reverend Kay Kurtz will lead a service celebrating Bob’s life in the funeral home’s chapel on Thursday, December 29, 2011 at 10:30 AM. Burial, with military honors provided by members of the Carl C. Stoller Post 1445 of the New Philadelphia VFW, will follow in the Evergreen Burial Park at New Philadelphia.Memorial contributions in Bob’s name may be directed to Community Hospice of Tuscarawas County, 201 W Third Street, Dover or to St. Baldrick’s Foundation, 1333 S. Mayflower Avenue, Suite 400, Monrovia, CA 91016.