Robert Joseph Oertel Sr.

Robert Joseph Oertel Sr, age 79, died on November 11, 2015 peacefully
in the home where he was born, Lackland Well Farm, after a lengthy
bout with cancer. Known by many as “Bobby”, he was born in Cumberland County on January
6, 1936 to Willie and Allie Browning Oertel. He was a lifelong member
of Cumberland Presbyterian Church, never changing his membership
although he lived in New Kent County for more than twenty years. Upon
moving back in 1984 he led several major building projects at his
church while serving as a Deacon and later as an Elder.

Bobby returned to the Oertel home place and began renovations to the
house and surrounding acres. He was proud that the property was
recognized as a Century Farm in 2003. He was a metal building
contractor who owned and operated R. J. Oertel Metal Buildings until
his retirement.

Bobby was active in civic affairs in the county serving as the
District 5 Representative on the Board of Supervisors from November
2006 to January 2012. He was also a former member of the Cumberland
Ruritan Club. As a member of the Cumberland Historical Society, he
worked diligently to help find a permanent home for many
contributions.

Bobby is survived by his loving wife Susan, daughter Lisa Caperton
(John), son Robert J. Oertel Jr. (Ellen), son Jonathan Scott Oertel
(Pam) and step son Ward T. Saunders, five grandchildren and one great
grandchild. He was preceded in death by five sisters, a brother and
the mother of his children, Julia Vogel Oertel.

A memorial service will be held at Cumberland Presbyterian Church on
Thursday, November 19, 2015 at 11:00AM. The family will receive
friends at Puckett Funeral Home from 5:00PM – 8:00PM. Wednesday,
November 18, 2015. Interment will be private. Memorial Contributions may be made to the
Randolph District Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 104, Farmville, VA
23901-0104