Eastern Driller Manufacturing, with great sadness, has announced the passing of Robert B. Mortell, 83, on Jan. 4. He was born to the late Thomas and Ida Bayer Mortell on Oct. 30, 1935.

He was a graduate of the University of Virginia, where he played basketball and still holds the rebound record for the Cavaliers. He was the founder and owner of Eastern Driller Manufacturing Company, where he devised a business plan to build top quality products at competitive prices. He enjoyed working with and helping his employees whenever he could. He was a good friend to all who had the privilege to know him and will be sorely missed.

He is survived by his wife, Caroline Mortell; step-children, Deborah Walter and Brian York; cousin, Victor Baum; niece and nephew, Margaret Griesing and Bennett Mortell.

A memorial contribution can be made to the Charlottesville Albemarle SPCA, P.O. Box 7047, Charlottesville, Va., 22906.