Obituary
Today, the light went “black” for the greatest Spotlight Operator who ever worked in Southwest Florida. Robert E. Maxwell of Ft Myers, Florida died in his home on Friday, July 15, 2022. He was 88 years old. He worked for over 50 years in the theatrical stage business as an electrician and was a founding member of the IASTSE Local 647 of Southwest Florida. Brother Maxwell was recognized as one of the best in the business for his spotlight abilities.
Bob is survived by his bride of 35 years, Sue Douglas Maxwell. He has two daughters Bonnie Chevalier, and her husband Terry Chevalier, and Marcia Champion; four step-sons Retired Colonel Robb Mitchell, Colonel Todd Mitchell, Brett Mitchell, and Ladd Mitchell; several grandchildren, Katie Packard, Brody and Tegan Mitchell, Callie and Simon Mitchell and Audree Hava; four great-grandchildren Quinn and Laynie Packard and Carter and Liam Hava. He is preceded in death by his parents John and Margaret Maxwell; sister Sharon Hill; great-granddaughter Sailor Packard and former wife Marilyn Gibbs.
Bob was born on September 11, 1933, in Springfield, Illinois. He graduated from Feitshans High School and was drafted to serve in the Korean War. He served his country proudly and loved all who lived in America. Bob and Sue moved to Fort Myers in l987 from Springfield, Illinois, and have called Ft Myers their home for 35 years.
He loved the game of golf and played St. Andrews on his 80th birthday with a score of 92. He was a self-professed world’s worst gambler but loved to play cards no matter what. A great father, grandfather, and stepdad who taught them how to be the best. He was kind, a hard worker, and a family man. He was a super optimist who always had fun and saw the good things in people. Bob always smiled and laughed. He loved to travel, and he took his bride to see all the corners of the planet. Most of all, he worshipped the love of life—his lovely bride Sue. He was her soul mate and rock during their entire married life.
Though he said he had an Easy Pass for the Highway to Hell, he is up there looking down on us now.
You’ll always be missed and loved forever.
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