Robert L. Etzwiler

Robert L. Etzwiler, 85, of Gobles, passed away on Monday, May 18, 2026. He was born March 25, 1941, in Mansfield, Ohio. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Pearl Etzwiler, whose resolute marriage served as an inspiration for their family. He is also survived by his children, their spouses, his grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren: Kevin Etzwiler (wife, Connie & daughter, Brianna), John Etzwiler, David Mead, Daniel Mead, Denise Noble (husband, Alex & their children, Katy, Nicholas, Alexander, Iris), and William Noble (wife, Debra & their children, Logan, Liam, Spencer, Samuel). Robert was a proud Vietnam Veteran, executing two combat tours during the war, including the 1968 Tet Offensive. He was drafted into the United States Army in 1966 and re-enlisted twice. Robert served his country as a Light Weapons Infantryman and an Asphalt- Heaterman. He was especially proud to be assigned to the ‘Big Red One’ and ‘American’s First Team’, the Army’s 1st Infantry and 1st Cavalry Division respectively. He finished his service at the rank of Sergeant, a true frontline leader. For his service and sustained heroism, Robert received many military honors, including the U.S. Army Air Medal, Purple Heart, Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Vietnam Service Medal with Bronze Service Star. Following his service with the Army, Robert was a long-time member of the Kal-Haven Lions Club and the 1st Cavalry Division Association. He enjoyed gardening, thrift shopping, Western & Military films, and spending time with his family. Services to honor Robert’s life will be held on Friday, May 29, 2026. The public viewing will take place at the D. L. Miller Funeral Home in Bloomingdale, starting at 10:00 a.m. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow at the Gobles Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Kal-Haven Lions Club or Vietnam Veterans of America. Robert L. Etzwiler’s legacy is one of sacrifice, both for the Army and his family. Resilience during the Vietnam War, his charity work on the homefront, and his devotion to family will keep him in our hearts forever. There is a common expression in the 1st Cavalry Division, one uttered as conflicts and the years roll on: “Once CAV, Always CAV”. Arrangements entrusted to D .L. Miller Funeral Home, Bloomingdale Chapel.

Robert L. Etzwiler

March 25, 1941 - May 18, 2026