Robert S. Michelsen

Final Flight on March 10, 2012

Robert Sidney Michelsen, Colonel, USAF (Retired)

December 19, 1934 - March 10, 2012

Colonel Robert S. Michelsen USAF (Ret.)

Colonel Robert S. Michelsen “Bob” died in Auburn, WA., on March 10th, 2012 at home in the arms of his wife after a short battle with cancer. Bob was born December 19, 1934 in Kent, WA. Following graduation from high school, Bob completed one year at the University of Washington, then transferred to Central Washington University where he received a B.S. degree in Biology. Commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the Air Force thru the R.O.T.C. program, he began pilot training in the Air Force and received his pilot’s wings at Laredo AFB, Texas in 1959. He then completed the advanced helicopter pilot training school.

He became a career officer and Command Pilot in the Air Force, flying large fixed wing Search and Rescue aircraft and single-seat jet aircraft, but his love was flying Rescue helicopters. During his Air Force career, he and his very supportive wife Pat and their four children, moved 15 times to various air bases across the United States and to four overseas bases. Bob served in Vietnam and flew 162 combat hours in rescue helicopters. He was awarded the Legion of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, and Air Medal with five Oak Leaf Clusters, Officer Order of the Republic of Tunisia, two Air Force Commendations and the Presidential Unit Citation. He became Commander of the 38th Air Rescue and Recovery Squadron on 1 July 1978. He was a graduate of Squadron Officers School and the Air Force Command and Staff College. He received a Master Degree in Management from Webster University in St. Louis. His last assignment was Commander of the Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Service at Scott AFB in Illinois.

Following retirement from the Air Force, Bob and Pat returned home to Washington where he managed a Property Management Business while enjoying golf, skiing, fishing, and traveling. His love of family, community and country were central in his life.

He is survived by his loving wife Pat, his children Phillip Michelsen, Catherine Dressel, and Karen Porter. Grandchildren: Stacy, Zachary, Kyle, Katie, Mariah, Graham, Megan, and Ashlyn. Sons-In-Law: Kent and Mark, Daughters-In-Law Joan and Christine. His son Christopher and brother Gary preceded him in death.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Zion Lutheran Church or to your favorite charity.

GUEST BOOK

March 22, 2012

Pat I'm sorry for this being so late. We all love Bob being part of the golf group. It was there that I first ment Bob. I had so much fun with him when I got to be in the same four some. He was so liked I will miss him as I'm sure the rest will. My love goes with you upon the great lost of Bob. The lost of such a loved one is so hard. Healing will come. The great memories you have will help now and then will last a live time. With Love W

~

Walt Crawford

March 20, 2012

Pat, Barbara and I send our deepest condolences to you and your family. Having participated with Bob on more than one mountain rescue, I appreciated the opportunities to work with him. He was consistently personable and friendly. He was a great Comrade in Arms. He is missed. With sympathy, Andy & Barbara

~

Lt.Col. Harold Solberg (ret)

March 17, 2012

Went through 12 years of school with him. Will truly miss his smiles and hugs. Pat had a very special man.

~

Elaine (Marble) Cooper

March 16, 2012

We are so sad - what a loss. Our hearts go out to Pat and family.

~

Joyce and Donald Becker

March 15, 2012

A sympathy card has been sent to the family of Col. Robert Sidney Michelsen (ret) c/o Edline-Yahn & Covington Funeral Chapel funeral home.

March 15, 2012

We extend our sorrow to you, Pat, and the family.We all lost a good friend and a good and honorable man.Our thoughts are with you.

~

Howard /Helen

March 14, 2012

I was so sorry to read about Bob. Pat, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

~

Margaret Blanton Joy

March 14, 2012

To Pat and family, We send you prayers and love during this difficult time. We will never forget Bob's kindness and gracious nature when we knew Bob and Pat as members of Zion Lutheran Church many years ago. Know we are thinking of all of you and are grateful for knowing Bob.

~

Diane & Andy Hogle

March 14, 2012

Pat we are very sorry for your loss> Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Doug

~

Doug Angell

March 14, 2012

We met Bob when we were neighbors with Mark & Karen Porter. He was a great person and will be missed. We are better for having known him. God bless, Pat

~

Patrick McNeley

March 14, 2012

Pat and family, We are so sorry for your loss and extend our sincere sympathy to you all. Your loss is truly heavens gain. Bob was a great guy, and a true gentleman. Blessings, Janice and Lane

~

Janice Hereth

March 14, 2012

The world has lost a wonderful man, and heaven has gained one. Peace and love to all.

~

Carol McNeley 

March 14, 2012

I was sorry to hear of Bob's death, and our thoughts are with you and your family. It would be nice to be in touch with you again.

~

Marilyn Stendal Brossard

March 13, 2012

A sympathy card has been sent to the family of Col. Robert Sidney Michelsen (ret) c/o Edline-Yahn & Covington Funeral Chapel funeral home.

March 13, 2012

Love you Daddy.

March 13, 2012

A sympathy card has been sent to a friend or relative of Col. Robert Sidney Michelsen (ret).

"FREEDOM ISN'T FREE"

~SOMEONE PAYS FOR YOU AND ME~

"HELICOPTERS" - THE ONLY WAY TO FLY

~NEVER FORGOTTEN~