Robert William Platel, age 71, of El Cajon, California passed away on Thursday, July 30, 2020. Bob was born December 30, 1948 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Patricia Platel (nee Patterson) and August Platel.
Bob is survived by his wife Margaret (nee Shollar); daughter Stacie Shields (Mike) of Holland, Pennsylvania; son Robert William Platel Jr. of Potrero, California; son Michael Platel (Dawn) of El Cajon, California; brother Rick Platel (Leslie) of Palm Springs, California; brother Garry Platel of El Cajon, California and his grandchildren Shawn, Ashley, Nicholas, Connor, Makenna, Cassidy and Andrew.
Bob was preceded in death by both of his parents and his grandson, Christian Michael Shields.
Bob was a graduate of Frankford High School in Philadelphia. He was a self-taught draftsman. Throughout his 45 year career as a mechanical engineer, he was involved with the design of various tools and parts for use in trains, subway cars, military equipment and NASA projects.
Shortly after graduating high school, Bob served his country for six years as an Army Reservist.
Bob was a devoted husband, loving father and doting grandfather. Although relocating his family to the San Diego area in 1986, his heart always remained in Wildwood, New Jersey. Many of his favorite memories involved walking the boardwalk and grabbing a slice of Mack's pizza. He had a real talent for wood-working and could build or fix most anything with his hands. He enjoyed camping, hunting and time spent with his family.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.elcajonmortuary.com for the Platel family.
