Robert Johnson Schell

Robert Johnson Schell, 89, died Tuesday, October 28, 2014, at Universal Healthcare. An Asheville native, Mr. Schell was a son of the late John Quincy, Sr., and Nannie Neal Schell. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Frances Schell, brother, John Q. Schell, Jr. and son-in-law, Michael O. Bruckner. Mr. Schell is survived by his wife Lucy Coulter Schell; daughters, Carol Bruckner and Rebecca Mietzner (David); brother, Edwin C. Schell; grandchildren, Kyle Mietzner (Ellee) and Jessica Mietzner; great-grandchildren, Evangeline and Irene Mietzner; nieces, Karen Whitworth, Janet Kuck and Linda Burgin (Bill); and great-nieces and nephew, Holly Spivey (Jeremy), Connie Famous and Eric Whitworth. A graduate of Lee H. Edwards High School, he attended Asheville-Biltmore College before transferring to the University of Tennessee, where he earned his bachelor's degree. He received his Master's degree from Duke University. During this time frame he also served with the US Navy during WW II where he served on the destroyer escort "William Garfield" in both the Atlantic and the Pacific, and was recalled into service for the Korean War. He worked as a structural engineer with Six Associates Architectural Firm throughout his career and was an active member and former officer of the ASCE. An accomplished musician, he was a charter member of the Asheville Community Band. He was also a member of the barbershop music organization SPEBSQSA. He was also a poet and was readily available to compose poetry for various family occasions. An active member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church, he was especially active with the music programs, including youth and adult choirs. He served as a member of the adjunct faculty in engineering with NCSU, teaching locally at the UNC-A campus. A memorial service celebrating the life of Robert Schell will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday at Emmanuel Lutheran Church with the Rev. Dr. Michael McFarland and grandson, the Rev. Kyle Mietzner, officiating. Inurnment will follow in the memorial garden at the church. Memorials may be made to Emmanuel Lutheran Church and School, 51 Wilburn Place, Asheville, NC 28806. Groce Funeral Home on Patton Ave. is assisting the family.